Fred Wesley & The New J.B.'s live in Ascona

Experience Fred Wesley & The New J.B.'s live on July 1st

Fred Wesley & The New J.B.’s are scheduled to perform at the Jazzascona festival in Ascona, Switzerland on July 1st, 2026. Fred Wesley, a renowned trombonist, is a pivotal figure in funk music history, having been a core member of James Brown’s J.B.’s during the 1960s and 70s. The New J.B.’s continue that legacy, delivering a high-energy performance rooted in the hard-driving rhythms and complex horn arrangements characteristic of classic funk. Their sound blends elements of jazz, soul, and R&B, emphasizing improvisation and a strong groove.

Jazzascona is an annual jazz festival held in the picturesque lakeside town of Ascona, Switzerland. Established in 1988, it focuses primarily on New Orleans jazz but consistently incorporates diverse styles within the broader jazz spectrum – including funk – to appeal to a wide audience. The festival is known for its intimate atmosphere and free admission to most performances in the town’s central squares and along the lakefront. It regularly features both established international artists and emerging talents, contributing significantly to Ascona’s cultural scene each summer.