Jarvis Cocker, Luvcat & More Headline Montreux Jazz Festival’s British Culture Weekend

Experience the vibrant British culture at Montreux Jazz Festival’s special weekend featuring Jarvis Cocker, Luvcat, and iconic performances.

Montreux Jazz Festival Returns With a British Flair

The Montreux Jazz Festival, one of the most celebrated musical events in the world, is back for its 59th edition along the stunning shores of Lake Geneva, Switzerland. Running from July 4 to 19, 2025, this year’s festival promises a rich array of cultural and musical experiences. Among a massive lineup of talent, a special weekend from July 10 to 13 will pay tribute to the richness and diversity of British creativity.

This unique British weekend is the result of an exciting collaboration between London’s Southbank Centre and the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation. It will showcase a variety of art forms including music, cinema, literature, and visual arts to celebrate the best of UK culture.

Spotlight on British Icons: Jarvis Cocker and Horse Meat Disco

One of the highlights includes Jarvis Cocker’s workshop titled ‘Outsider Art’, held just a day before his band Pulp's highly anticipated festival performance. Music lovers will also get to enjoy a lively DJ set by the ever-popular Horse Meat Disco at La Coupole, a festive on-site venue known for its electric atmosphere.

“Montreux has always been a meeting place for cultures, ideas, and musical expressions. This British weekend embodies that spirit, offering an exciting showcase of UK creativity while deepening our collaboration with the Southbank Centre.”
— Mathieu Jaton, CEO of Montreux Jazz Festival

A Musical Tribute to Nina Simone and Iconic Jazz Stories

Music enthusiasts are in for a treat with ‘Searching For Nina Simone’s Spirit’, a powerful tribute led by saxophonist Soweto Kinch. Joined by vocalists Daisy George and Zoe Pascal, they will breathe new life into the legendary singer’s timeless music.

Fans of UK jazz will also appreciate Andre Marmot's presentation, ‘Unapologetic Expression: The Inside Story of UK Jazz’, offering a deep dive into the genre’s roots and evolution. On the cinema front, there will be screenings featuring captivating live performances by Massive Attack and Roni Size & Reprazent, immersing audiences in the dynamic world of British jazz and electronic music.

Exploring the Fusion of Fashion and Music

Benji B, renowned DJ and tastemaker, will lead an engaging workshop exploring the symbiotic relationship between fashion and music. Meanwhile, journalist Tina Edwards will co-host a thought-provoking conversation on queer jazz, expanding the festival’s cultural narrative to include diverse perspectives and histories.

Star-Studded Lineup Beyond the British Weekend

The festival’s opening night is set to honor the legendary Quincy Jones with a special concert led by the incomparable Chaka Khan, featuring surprise guests who collaborated with the iconic producer.

Other headline acts announced earlier this year include:

• Neil Young
• Sam Fender
• RAYE
• Diana Ross
• Grace Jones
• Jamie xx
• Brandi Carlile
• J Balvin
• Ezra Collective
• FKA Twigs
• Alanis Morissette
• Noah Kahan
• Beth Gibbons
• Benson Boone

Additional performers rounding out the lineup are Bloc Party, Royel Otis, James Blake, Seu Jorge, London Grammar, JADE, Jorja Smith, Lionel Richie, Shaboozey, Finneas, The Black Keys, Nubya Garcia, Sigrid, and Santana.

An Unforgettable Celebration Awaits

With such a diverse roster of artists and cultural events, the Montreux Jazz Festival 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of music, art, and culture, with a special nod to British creative influence.

Festival Highlights

• Date: July 4–19, 2025
• British Culture Weekend: July 10–13
• Location: Lake Geneva, Switzerland
• Key Events: Jarvis Cocker’s ‘Outsider Art’ workshop, Horse Meat Disco DJ set, Nina Simone tribute, UK jazz storytelling, fashion and music workshop, queer jazz discussion, and cinema screenings

Conclusion

Isn't it thrilling to see such a vibrant celebration of British culture mingling with the rich international spirit of the Montreux Jazz Festival? Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, jazz, or cutting-edge music and art, this festival weekend promises to deliver unforgettable memories.

FAQs

• Who are some of the key British artists featured during the Montreux Jazz Festival weekend?
  Jarvis Cocker, Luvcat, Horse Meat Disco, and Pulp are among the British highlights, alongside other UK jazz and cultural figures.
• What can visitors expect from Jarvis Cocker’s participation?
  Jarvis Cocker will host a workshop titled ‘Outsider Art’ and perform live with Pulp during the festival.
• Are there any special tributes happening at the festival?
  Yes, the festival includes a tribute to Nina Simone led by Soweto Kinch and a celebration of Quincy Jones’ legacy with Chaka Khan.
• Is the festival limited to music concerts only?
  No, the festival features cinema screenings, workshops on music and fashion, discussions on queer jazz, and other cultural activities.
• Where is the festival held, and when does it take place?
  The Montreux Jazz Festival is held on the shores of Lake Geneva, Switzerland, from July 4 to 19, 2025.

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