2025 Selby Avenue JazzFest Lineup
CORY HENRY & THE FUNK APOSTLES
Cory Henry is a Grammy-winning artist, composer, producer, and keyboardist known for his genre-blending sound across soul, jazz, gospel, R&B, and funk. A Brooklyn native and former child prodigy, he made his debut at the Apollo Theater at just six years old.
Henry rose to prominence with the jazz-funk collective Snarky Puppy, earning three Grammy Awards during his time with the group. Since launching his solo career, he’s released critically acclaimed albums including Art of Love, Something to Say, Operation Funk, and Live at the Piano. His 2025 project Church won the Grammy for Best Roots Gospel Album.
With credits spanning Rosalía, Imagine Dragons, Smino, and Lucky Daye, Henry has become one of the most versatile and sought-after musicians of his generation, headlining sold-out tours across the globe.
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THE YUKO MABUCHI TRIO
Yuko Mabuchi is a celebrated pianist known for blending jazz, classical, R&B, and blues into a vibrant, cross-cultural sound. Originally from Fukui, Japan, she began classical training at age four and later moved to Los Angeles, where she quickly gained recognition in the jazz scene.
She has released six acclaimed albums, performed at top venues like Walt Disney Hall and SFJazz, and appeared at major festivals including Monterey and Atlanta. A finalist in the Great American Jazz Piano Competition, Mabuchi has also played for global dignitaries, including the Prince of Denmark.
Known for performing in traditional kimonos, she honors her Japanese heritage while championing jazz as a universal language. Offstage, she supports young musicians through her work with the Watts-Willowbrook Youth Orchestra.
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HEYARLO
HEYARLO is a Minneapolis-based instrumental group known for lush, genre-blending soundscapes that fuse soul, funk, hip-hop, and jazz. Featuring DeCarlo Jackson (flugelhorn), Mickey Mahoney (bass), Evan Slack (guitar), Sam Rosenstone (keys), and Rick Haneman (drums), the band creates immersive, unpredictable music that’s as smooth as it is intricate.
Each member is a standout in the Twin Cities music scene, with credits ranging from Hippo Campus to Sid Sriram. Together, they craft original compositions that invite audiences to vibe out, lean in, and experience something truly fresh.
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BRIO BRASS
Brio Brass is a high-energy, 60-piece brass band from the Twin Cities, known for delivering fun, imaginative performances that span genres—from jazz and pop to show tunes and rock. Since 1999, they’ve captivated audiences with original arrangements, dynamic showmanship, and an upbeat, welcoming vibe.
With every concert full of surprises and toe-tapping rhythms, Brio Brass turns each performance into a joyful musical celebration for all ages.
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WALKER|WEST JAZZ ENSEMBLE
Walker|West Jazz Ensemble showcases the next generation of jazz talent, trained and nurtured at Walker|West Music Academy—where the transformative power of jazz is central to the mission. Rooted in the traditions of Black music and guided by a legacy of excellence, these young artists bring bold, expressive performances to the stage.
Led by renowned educators, the ensemble performs a dynamic mix of jazz standards, contemporary works, and original compositions, all infused with energy, purpose, and deep cultural connection. More than music, their sound reflects a language of self-expression, unity, and resilience.
Walker|West is proud to present these rising stars—each performance a powerful reminder that the future of jazz is in good hands.
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SELBY AVENUE BRASS BAND
Selby Avenue Brass Band brings a burst of New Orleans spirit to the Twin Cities with a bold, joyful sound rooted in NOLA street band tradition—blended seamlessly with jazz, funk, soul, and more. Led by tubist, composer, and longtime educator Tom Wells, the band features a powerhouse lineup of seasoned musicians, including Grammy winners.
For nearly 25 years, they’ve been a staple at community events and major festivals, known for their high-energy performances and signature second-line parades. With original compositions and vibrant arrangements, they deliver music that’s as soulful as it is celebratory.
As always, they’ll kick off JazzFest 2025 with a grand New Orleans–style procession—setting the tone with flair, spirit, and plenty of brass.
