by SLTA

​THE SAINT LUCIA TOURISM AUTHORITY (SLTA) AND THE SAINT LUCIA JAZZ & ARTS FESTIVAL ANNOUNCED THE FIRST WAVE OF ARTISTS FOR THE 2027 EDITION OF THE AWARD-WINNING FESTIVAL

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) and the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival announced the first wave of artists for the 2027 edition of the award-winning festival, unveiling internationally acclaimed British singer-songwriter Emeli Sandé, celebrated Saint Lucian singer-songwriter Michael Robinson, professionally known as M.R., and legendary American jazz rock band Chicago.

The announcement coincided with World Travel Market (WTM) London, one of the travel industry’s leading global gatherings, reinforcing the United Kingdom’s importance as a key source market for Saint Lucia and providing an international platform to build anticipation for the 2027 festival.

The first wave brings together distinctive musical talents from the United Kingdom, Saint Lucia and the United States, reflecting the festival’s longstanding commitment to presenting world-class international performers alongside outstanding Saint Lucian and regional artists.

British singer-songwriter Emeli Sandé, renowned for her powerful vocals and songwriting, has earned international acclaim with hits including Next to Me, Read All About It (Pt. III) and Beneath Your Beautiful, her collaboration with Labrinth. Her debut album, Our Version of Events, was the UK’s best-selling album of 2012. Her accolades include the BRIT Awards’ Critics’ Choice Award in 2012 and British Female Solo Artist in 2013, as well as the Ivor Novello Award for Songwriter of the Year in 2013, cementing her status as one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary recording artists.

Representing Saint Lucia, Michael Robinson, popularly known as M.R., brings an internationally recognised, homegrown voice to the festival. An award-winning singer-songwriter and recipient of the Nina Simone Award, M.R. has also earned a nomination at the Caribbean Music Awards. His inclusion reflects the festival’s continued commitment to championing Saint Lucian talent, providing local artists with opportunities to perform before international audiences while celebrating the island’s rich musical identity.

American jazz-rock band Chicago completes the first wave. Known for its distinctive fusion of rock, jazz and horn-driven arrangements, the group has enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades, with an enduring catalogue of hits including 25 or 6 to 4, Saturday in the Park, If You Leave Me Now and Hard to Say I’m Sorry. With its timeless classics and instantly recognisable melodies, Chicago promises to bring the festival’s signature sing-along atmosphere to the stage, uniting generations of music lovers in a shared celebration of music. 

The festival’s recognition as Music Festival of the Year at the 2026 Caribbean Music Awards further affirmed its standing as a leading platform for Caribbean music and culture.

Speaking on the announcement, Thaddeus M. Antoine, Chairman of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority remarked; “Our return to London for this first-wave announcement builds on the momentum of previous editions and our continued efforts to strengthen the festival’s international profile. As we look ahead to 2027, our focus remains on expanding its reach, attracting new audiences and enhancing its contribution to Saint Lucia’s tourism product.”

Beyond its world-class performances, the festival celebrates Saint Lucia’s music, arts, culture and community, creating opportunities for local talent and businesses while strengthening the destination’s tourism offering.

The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2027 takes place from April 30 to May 10, 2027. Additional artists and programme details will be announced in the coming months.