SASKATOON – Three decades of the Sask. Jazz Fest will be celebrated this summer in Saskatoon and some familiar acts will kick it off. Organizers of the 2016 SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival announced Wednesday the headliners for the opening weekend.
Lauryn Hill returns to Saskatoon after her 2014 debut show, which sold out in only four hours. The Grammy-winning solo artist and original member of The Fugees will perform on June 24.
On June 25, Metric hits the main stage. The Canadian band has numerous awards including Junos for album and artist of the year and played to a sold out crowd in 2013.
Debuting this year in Saskatoon is the Jacksonville-based ensemble, Tedeschi Trucks Band. The 12-piece blues-rock group will round out the opening weekend with a performance on June 26.
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“With the return of Ms. Lauryn Hill and Metric we are thrilled to present two of our favourite artists. And welcoming Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi on June 26th only adds to the excitement of our opening weekend lineup,” said artistic director Kevin Tobin.
“Despite the currency challenges we face when securing American and some international artists, the festival is committed to providing a world-class event that is affordable and accessible.”
All headliners will perform on the TD Mainstage at the Delta Bessborough Gardens along the riverbank.
Tickets go on sale March 1 at 10 a.m. CT. The 2016 Sask. Jazz Fest runs from June 24 to July 3.
The last two annual festivals brought in approximately 80,000 people over 10 days.