Herald-Guide People Watch

Jake Smith to take stage at Jazz Fest

Photo by Thelezia Folse

MOVIN’ ON UP. Destrehan musician Jake Smith and his 3-man band are pictured playing a gig at the First Baptist Church of Luling’s annual free clothing drive.

On April 26, Destrehan musician Jake Smith and his band will, for the first time, play a venue unlike any other - the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

The group, who are known locally for their melodic songs, will join worldwide acts like the Dave Matthews Band, Joe Cocker, James Taylor and New Orleans’ own Better Than Ezra on the prestigious Acura Stage the first Sunday of the festival.

Smith and his band will open the day with a 50-minute performance unlike any other they’ve played before, beginning at 11:20 a.m. and ending at 12:10 p.m.

The group was last spotted in St. Charles Parish at the First Baptist Church of Luling’s annual free clothing give away, entertaining the crowd during a special Easter weekend concert.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is scheduled for April 24, 25, 26 and 30, and May 1, 2 and 3 at the Fair Grounds Race Course located at 1751 Gentilly Blvd. in New Orleans. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for all musical performances and arts and crafts vendors.

To see Smith and his band play live at the festival, purchase tickets by visiting www.ticketmaster.com or calling 1-800-745-3000.