One of South Los Angeles’ signature music and community celebrations is back.
Jazz at Drew returns Saturday, October 10, bringing a full day of jazz, soul, funk and R&B to the campus of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in the Watts-Willowbrook community.
This year’s festival is part of the university’s 60th Anniversary and Homecoming celebration and features a lineup spanning generations of music.
Headlining the festival is The Original Lakeside, the legendary funk group behind classics including “Fantastic Voyage,” “All the Way Live” and “Raid.”
Also taking the stage are Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and pianist Avery*Sunshine, R&B favorite Jon B., Grammy-winning percussionist Poncho Sanchez, singer and keyboardist Jarrod Lawson, and old-school funk, R&B and soul tribute band Biscuits & Gravy Live.
More Than a Music Festival
Jazz at Drew has long been about more than who’s on stage.
The festival was created as a place where music, community and culture come together while celebrating the heritage of Watts-Willowbrook and supporting Charles R. Drew University’s connection to the surrounding community.
More than 2,000 attendees are expected this year.
In addition to live performances, attendees can explore a marketplace featuring local businesses and artists, grab food from onsite vendors and enjoy the festival atmosphere throughout the CDU campus.
Celebrating 60 Years of Charles R. Drew University
This year’s festival also marks an important milestone.
Charles R. Drew University is celebrating its 60th anniversary, making the return of Jazz at Drew part of a larger Homecoming celebration honoring the university’s history and its longstanding role in South Los Angeles.
For Black Angelenos looking for a weekend that combines live music, community and South LA culture, Jazz at Drew deserves a spot on the calendar.
Jazz at Drew 2026
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Time: Beginning at noon
Where: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, 1731 E. 120th St., Los Angeles
Featuring: The Original Lakeside, Avery*Sunshine, Jon B., Poncho Sanchez, Jarrod Lawson and Biscuits & Gravy Live
Tickets/source: Official Jazz at Drew information and tickets
