The curtains for Jamaica Jazz & Blues 2013 came to a close last evening with lingering memories of powerful performances by Coco Tea, Third World, KC and the Sunshine Band, John Legend, Monica and Dionne Warwick. What better time than today to reflect on the iconic Jazz & Blues festivals over the years.

S O’s trip down memory lane starts in 2007 at the Aqueduct in Rose Hall, Montego Bay — a venue that saw patrons singing along with international acts such as Lionel Richie, Anita Baker, Randy Crawford and Estelle. Over the years the festival has undergone several other changes. In fact, 2009 marked the year the festival changed its name from the Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival to JAMAICA Jazz & Blues Festival with the Jamaica Tourist Board as title sponsor. Another memorable change was the introduction of Jamaica night in 2012, in honour of the country’s 50th year of Independence, which organisers have continued this year. We share highlights of not only fantastic performances over the years but the fab spectators in attendance.