New Orleans Hosts Purple Party Tribute to Prince During Jazz Fest 2025

New Orleans was electrified on April 26, 2025, as the Purple Party, a vibrant tribute to the legendary musician Prince, returned as part of the renowned Jazz Fest. This year’s event was notable for its shift to an after-midnight performance slot on Saturday, bringing an exciting energy to the festival’s lineup. The night was headlined by acclaimed bands The Motet and Cool Cool Cool, drawing in fans from all corners of the city.

Star-Studded Lineup Features Top Performers

This year, the celebrated The Motet showcased a full six-piece lineup, including:

• Dave Watts – drummer
• Joey Porter – keyboardist
• Ryan Jalbert – guitarist
• Garrett Sayers – bassist
• Drew Sayers – saxophonist
• Sarah Clarke – vocalist

Joining them on stage was former frontman Lyle Divinsky, who also contributed to the evening’s memorable performances. The band Cool Cool Cool enriched the celebration with five talented collaborators, comprising:

• Craig Brodhead – guitar and keys
• Chris Brouwers – trumpet and keys
• Shira Elias – vocals
• Sammi Garett – vocals
• Greg Sanderson – saxophone

Throughout the performance, lead vocals were dynamically shared among Clarke, Garett, Elias, and Divinsky, creating a rich vocal tapestry. The stunning collaborations and powerful renditions of familiar tunes enhanced the tribute experience.

Memorable Performances and Tribute Highlights

The Purple Party featured a number of notable performances, including collaborative takes on classic songs. Highlights included:

• “I Feel For You” – Sammi, Shira, and Lyle
• “Soft and Wet” – Sammi and Shira
• “Head” – Sarah and Shira
• “Nothing Compares 2 U” – Lyle and Shira

New material was also presented, with “Chelsea Rodgers” led by Clarke and “Partyman” performed by Divinsky. The evening culminated with powerful renditions of Prince’s timeless classics, including “Call My Name,” “1999,” and the inimitable “Purple Rain”.

Event Production and Future Plans

The Purple Party was produced in association with Live For Live Music and GMP Live, ensuring a high-quality experience for the audience. The event is part of the broader Fest by Nite series, which will feature additional performances and events throughout Jazz Fest, running from April 24 to May 4, 2025.

Photographer Jay Strausser was on hand to capture the excitement of the evening, providing lasting memories of this exceptional nighttime tribute.

Background Context of the Purple Party

The Purple Party has emerged as a beloved tradition during Jazz Fest, honoring Prince’s enduring impact on music and culture. Each year, fans gather to pay homage to the artist through lively performances and collective remembrance. The change to Saturday’s after-midnight slot reflects the festival’s evolving nature and its commitment to enhancing the audience’s experience. As Jazz Fest continues to gain recognition and draw larger crowds, events like the Purple Party cement New Orleans’ reputation as a premier destination for live music and cultural celebration.