JAZZ legend Ramsey Lewis won’t be performing at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival.
The organisers announced his withdrawal earlier this week.
Senior T-Music Man producer Mantwa Chinoamadi said Brett Steele from Lewis’ management in the US wrote to them, explaining why he would be unable to perform.
“We apologise sincerely for the inconvenience this may cause,” said Mantwa.
She wished Ramsey a speedy recovery and assured jazz fans of a festival that will create magical experiences.
Ramsey would have performed with funk, soul and jazz composer and vibraphone player Roy Ayers, who now will be performing alone.
Roy is known as the godfather of neo soul because he mixes jazz with hip hop and funk.
Chinoamadi said The Power Trio’s Gerri Allen will be replaced by new member Aki Takase, who will add her own melodies to the mix.
Japan-born Aki started playing the piano at the age of three and later studied classical piano at the Toho Gakuen School of Music.
She has played with the likes of Lester Bowie, Sheila Jordan, David Liebman and John Zorn.
The event will be held on four stages, including the Dinaledi, Conga, Mbira and Diphala, which will host more than 40 performances.
Audiences can buy one- or two-day festival passes that will provide access for Friday and Saturday.
- Tickets for Joy of Jazz, which takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre, are on sale through Computicket at R795 for a day pass and R1 350 for a two-day pass.
