Kes the Band Headlines Unity Jazz Festival at Lincoln Center

Kes the Band headlines Unity Jazz Festival in January 2026, marking a major milestone for Caribbean music. The Trinidad and Tobago supergroup will perform on January 8–9, 2026, at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City.

Notably, the performance places soca and calypso inside one of jazz’s most iconic venues. As a result, the appearance represents a rare crossover moment for Caribbean sound on a global stage.

Kes’ Milestone Year

This headlining slot comes during Kes’ 20th anniversary year. Because of this, the band will present a new concert format designed exclusively for the festival.

The performances will be intimate and stripped back. Instead of their usual large-scale productions, Kes will rework their catalogue with a greater focus on musicianship and storytelling.

Kes the Band Headlines Unity Jazz Festival with Intimate Performances

The shows, titled An Intimate Evening with Kes and Friends, will offer audiences a closer connection to the band. Meanwhile, familiar songs will be reimagined through fresh arrangements.

This approach allows long-time fans and new listeners alike to experience Kes in a more personal setting.

In addition, acclaimed Trinidadian trumpeter Etienne Charles will join Kes on stage. Charles is known for blending jazz with Afro-Caribbean traditions, which complements the band’s evolving sound.

Beyond performing, he is also providing production support. Consequently, the collaboration adds depth and musical range to the festival appearance.

Ahead of New Music

Ahead of the festival, Kes is preparing to release their new single “Rum and Coca Cola.” Further releases are also expected in early 2026.

Therefore, the Unity Jazz Festival serves both as a celebration of the band’s legacy and a preview of what’s next.

A Defining Moment for Caribbean Music

Across the two-day festival, Lincoln Center will host performances by leading jazz artists from around the world. However, Kes the Band headlines Unity Jazz Festival as a defining cultural moment.

Ultimately, the performance reinforces the Caribbean’s influence within global music spaces. With 20 years behind them and a new era ahead, Kes continues to expand the region’s presence on the world’s most respected stages.