Jazz in the Gardens: A Sound Explosion at Hard Rock Stadium
By Bobbi Harper, The Culture
Miami Gardens came alive as the Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival took over Hard Rock Stadium, delivering an unforgettable weekend of music, culture, and community. This year’s festival kicked off with a Miami House Party, helmed by DJ Nasty. The curated music set gave way to DJ Boweezy and DJ Tight, who navigated a high-energy set that paid homage to the Miami‘s iconic sound.
The trio blended classic Miami beats with mainstream hits, transforming the festival grounds into house party that celebrated the city’s rich musical heritage. DJ Tight reflected on the moment, saying, “This perfectly captures the magic of an unforgettable weekend at @jazzgardens. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share these incredible musical talents.”
Meanwhile, DJ Nasty extended his gratitude, stating, “Thank you to @jazzgardens, @cityofmiamigardens, and @blackpromoterscollective for having the Miami House Party set.”
A Lineup of Legends
As the festival unfolded, hip-hop and R&B icons took center stage, bringing timeless classics and fresh energy to the Jazz in the Gardens audience. Miami’s very own Uncle Luke was saluted for his contributions to the Miami bass movement, while Doug E. Fresh kept the crowd engaged with his legendary beatboxing skills while he pulled out a harmonica to add to the melody. Young Joc, Ball Greezy, 69 Boyz, and Mike Smiff also graced the stage, further amplifying the celebration of hip-hop, and the musical evolution.
This festival proved why it stands as one of the premier music festivals in the nation. Over two unforgettable days, the festival delivered legendary performances, emotional tributes to R&B Legend Angie Stone, and once-in-a-lifetime moments, leaving the audience in awe. From powerhouse R&B acts to hip-hop legends and reggae royalty, this year’s lineup gave fans an experience they will never forget.
Photo credit: Walik Goshern
DAY ONE UP CLOSE
Ms. Lauryn Hill’s Iconic Closing Set
Ms. Lauryn Hill closed out the first night with pure magic, proving her timeless impact on music. Opening her set with classics from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, she captivated the audience with her signature soulful delivery. A deeply personal moment came when she performed To Zion and brought her firstborn, Zion Marley, on stage, an emotional nod to their family legacy. Her son, YG Marley, also graced the stage with his hit Praise Jah in the Moonlight alongside unreleased tracks, creating a multi-generational celebration of music.
In a powerful display of hip-hop’s evolving legacy, Ms. Lauryn Hill introduced Doechii—the latest woman to win Best Rap Album at the Grammys, a title Hill was the first to earn. Doechii’s high-energy performance lit up the stage, proving why she is next up in the rap game. People are still standing up.
In an unforgettable finale, Ms. Lauryn Hill was joined by Wyclef Jean for a surprise Fugees reunion. The duo performed classics like Killing Me Softly and Ready or Not, sending the audience into a frenzy and wrapping up the night with a legendary touch.
Coco Jones Sets the Stage Ablaze
Coco Jones delivered a powerhouse performance, captivating the crowd with her commanding presence and flawless vocals. Her latest single, Taste, had the audience hooked instantly, while Here We Go showcased her impressive vocal range. She closed her set with the emotional ICU, leaving many visibly moved by the song’s depth. Her high-energy set seamlessly set the stage for the electrifying Tye Tribbett performance that followed.
Xscape Delivers Timeless R&B Magic
The legendary R&B group Xscape took the JITG stage by storm with their signature harmonies and nostalgic hits. From Just Kickin’ It to the heartfelt Do You Want To, the group’s chemistry was undeniable. A special moment came when LaTocha Scott serenaded her husband on stage, adding a personal touch to their performance. The group also brought a lucky fan on stage, creating an unforgettable memory for everyone in attendance.
Busta Rhymes Brings the Energy, Rising Stars Shine
Hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes made a surprise appearance, unleashing his signature rapid-fire delivery that had the entire crowd on their feet. Meanwhile, rising stars Samara Cyn, Foggieraw, and Mannywellz each brought their own unique energy to the stage, solidifying their places as the next wave of musical greatness.
DAY TWO UP CLOSE
Kem’s Soulful Connection
Kem’s performance was a soulful journey, showcasing his deep connection with the audience. Taking his energy beyond the stage, he invited three different men from the crowd to sing with him. One particularly moving moment came when he brought a white audience member forward to sing I Can’t Stop Loving You, emphasizing unity and love in today’s divided world. His heartfelt tribute to the late Angie Stone further deepened the emotional resonance of his set.
Beenie Man Brings the Party
Reggae legend Beenie Man, performing in the U.S. for the first time in decades, turned JITG into a full-blown Caribbean dance party. His infectious energy had the entire venue on its feet, from the audience to the staff and security. The night reached another level when he brought Mya on stage, their chemistry sparking one of the festival’s most talked-about moments.
Photo credit: Detiko Cox
Toni Braxton’s Timeless Elegance
Toni Braxton’s velvety vocals and commanding stage presence left the audience spellbound. Dazzling in a jeweled ensemble, she performed a mix of her biggest hits alongside her sister, Trina Braxton, turning the night into an unforgettable celebration of R&B. A deeply emotional highlight was her tearful tribute to Angie Stone, as she performed Breathe Again, one of Angie’s favorite songs. The moment was raw and heartfelt, resonating deeply with the crowd.
New Edition’s Unbreakable Bond
Closing out the festival, New Edition delivered a performance that was nothing short of legendary. Their seamless blend of group hits and solo spotlights gave the audience a full-circle experience of their decades-long careers. Their camaraderie and timeless showmanship had the crowd reveling in nostalgia, as they celebrated the rare chance to see all of New Edition’s members performing together once more.
Photo credit: Edurado Rojas
A Festival to Remember
JITG 2025 solidified its legacy as one of the most prestigious music festivals in the country. With once-in-a-lifetime performances, emotional tributes, and electrifying surprises, this year’s festival was nothing short of extraordinary. Fans will be talking about these moments for years to come, eagerly anticipating what Jazz in the Gardens will bring next.
Photo credit Robin James
