Guinness Cork Jazz Festival Opens with Surprise Lee Fields Performance

The 47th Guinness Cork Jazz Festival kicked off last night with soul legend Lee Fields making a surprise appearance at Cork Opera House, marking the start of five days that will see over 500 musicians perform across nearly 80 venues citywide.

The iconic American singer joined Irish artist Toshín on stage before an audience of 120 festival supporters on Thursday evening, setting the tone for what promises to be one of the biggest editions yet of Ireland's largest city-based music festival.

This year's lineup brings together jazz greats, global innovators and rising stars. From Lee Fields & The Expressions and Orchestra Baobab to Mercury Prize-nominated saxophonist Nubya Garcia and the visionary techno pioneer Jeff Mills, the festival showcases the full spectrum of contemporary jazz and soul.

Irish talent features prominently, with Annie & The Caldwells, Rejjie Snow and rising stars like Sienna Spiro taking to stages across the city. The festival also extends beyond Cork's centre, with events in Douglas, Kinsale and surrounding areas.

Demand has been exceptional. Shows from Cymande, The Pharcyde, The Congos, Le Boom, TBL8 Brass, Dublon, Maverick Sabre, Khakikid, Luke Thomas and Ross From Friends have all sold out, with limited tickets remaining for JP Cooper, James Holden & Waclaw Zimpel, and Stella Sings Ella.

The festival's reach extends far beyond ticketed concerts. More than 100,000 attendees are expected to enjoy both main stage performances and the free Guinness Music Trail, whilst the Big Fringe programme brings pop-up gigs and brass bands to the streets.

Cork Airport has reported a record-breaking 62,000 passengers flying in and out this weekend, whilst the festival is estimated to generate €45 million for the local economy. Every business in the city benefits from the influx, from hotels and pubs to retail and hospitality.

Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Fergal Dennehy said:

"The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival brings a palpable energy to our streets, stages, and venues every year. This weekend not only showcases world-class jazz and our outstanding local talent, but also shines a spotlight on the very best of Cork's hospitality, culture, and night-time economy. And it's not just hotels and pubs that feel the Jazz lift: every business in Cork benefits from the buzz this weekend brings."

He added:

"As National Geographic described us last year, Cork is a 'fun city with a vibrant culture', and this festival is living proof of that spirit. On behalf of Cork City Council, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to Guinness and Diageo for their continued investment and time and to the organisers, volunteers, and everyone who makes this flagship festival possible."

Colin Kenny, Head of Commercial South West, Diageo Ireland, said:

"For decades, Guinness has been a proud supporter of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, and we're thrilled to be back for 2025. This iconic celebration of music and culture captures the spirit of togetherness that Guinness stands for. We're deeply grateful to our festival partners: Fáilte Ireland, Cork City Council and Cork Airport and of course, all the publicans, hoteliers, and volunteers who bring this festival to life. The possibilities are endless for the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. We're committed to its success and making it one of the best music festivals in Europe."

New additions this year include the Jazz Food Market on St. Patrick's Street on Saturday and Sunday, alongside perennial favourites like the Oliver Plunkett Street Jazz Stroll and the Guinness Music Trail.

From its humble beginnings at the Metropole Hotel 47 years ago, the festival has grown into Cork's biggest annual event. Over the decades, it has attracted legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald and Sonny Rollins, whilst also showcasing contemporary artists such as Damon Albarn, Macy Gray, Kamasi Washington and De La Soul.

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival runs until Monday, 27 October. Full programme details are available at guinnesscorkjazz.com or by following @guinnesscorkjazz on social media.