Playboy Jazz Festival

Playboy Jazz Festival

Playboy Jazz Festival Concert & Tour Photos

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Fan Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
BlackbutterflyJazz
Sunday 06.12.16 at the Hollywood Bowl was truly an Awesome -- Beautiful -- Jazz in the Sunset Serenade!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
MrBBQ
This was my 10 th time attending and once again it was simple fabulous. I love the feeling of freedom we have while being there. Please do not make any changes to this wonder event
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
steffster
My husband and I attended Sunday's show. Incredible. Great jazz as well as soul. An enjoyable day and evening.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
Honduras :: Fort Valley State University Wildcats Football :: Freez Luv :: Mercer Bears Football :: NMSU Aggies Volleyball
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
MrVinnyV
This was my forth year at the event and I think the weakest line up. Then the final Group Saturday took the stage and starting doing Rap. I thought maybe one song, then another rap song then another. People around me stating leaving. With the stacked parking I thought what the neck stick it out. Very bad choice on the last group. This is a JAZZ festival. So guys let's do better next year. THINK JAZZ!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Fan4Always
The ambiance is of good people getting together for a day of great music, drink and food. I have attended for the past 7 years and have come away with appreciation of the variety of music, the flow of conversation with strangers that seem like old friends after a while and the comraderie that is enhanced with the music. Overall a very nice event!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
DrumDoggy
The Playboy Jazz Festival is always a good time for all! In my 18 years attending I have experienced practically every race, creed, color and otherwise enjoy each other's company with genuine brotherly love! No where have I seen this before or since. Jazz just does that to you I guess. The bands on Saturday were okay. Eddie Palmieri was by far the best and biggest crowd pleaser! They do best when they mix in bands like Ozomatli, Royal Crown Revue and/or Latin Jazz with their jazz bands. On a frustrated note, the soundman cannot seem to get it right. It was far too loud at times, piercing mid range and the singer's vocal mic didn't work for a band or two. One would think they would have the sound thing down at the bowl. Too loud is never acceptable. Overall, another good show! Fun for all.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Red1951
It was a great atmosphere.. friendly people, perfect weather and lots of good feelings. But, not enough classic jazz for me... Sat. the sound was too low, Sunday the sound was too loud and a bit to much rock and roll... I'll try again next year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
BunnyforLife
I attend the festival every year and am never disappointed. The atmosphere, the crowd "hanging out" with people you never met and everyone being on the same "party" page is what brings me back every year for the past 15-20 years.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
LDYJOKR
The event was awesome. The show was spectacular. The Roots were a great closure to an amazing night. What made the event better for me is the people around us. Everyone was so generous with their food and drinks and it was nice to have coversations with them and have a good time. It was a party in our seats =) What a great night. I cant wait for next year!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Anonymous
Eddie Palmieri was my favorite and the reason I went. I thought the other acts were fairly entertaining. Please do something about that food at Hollywood Bowl. Horrible.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
great music, great venue. great price, it will be cold outside seat. bring a blanket or a jacket
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Chapuis
I have been going to the festival since the middle 1980's on and off. We have kids grauations and family stuff, so I have not been every year.. But everytime I go and at the end of the Sunday concert , I say " Can't wait for next year. It is such a blast, the only place where you can bring in all your Food and Sprits without the sercurity having to get involved This Best 2 Day Party!!!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
CookieMonstah
Don't miss it. I've been every year except 2000 since 1991 and LAWRD HAVE MERCY!!! Do yourself a favor. There's ONLY one PLAYBOY JAZZ FESTIVAL. 18,000 PARTY PEOPLE CONVERGE ON THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL EVERY JUNE...IT'S THE BEST PARTY YOU EVER WENT TO...IN YOUR LIFE!!!! daMonstah
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Numbskull
Great music and great audience. Wayyyyy laid back. Know how to live.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
ralphshaha
Since the early 1980's I've been to over 20 PlayboyJazz Festivals @ the Bowl. This one was in need of more "Real Jazz." I attended Sunday's show which had almost half of the lineup playing real jazz, the rest were R&B type & Blues which is usually good, but the two R&B groups- Liv Garfield & Janelle Monae were way to loud to the point of almost hurting my ears! There was New Orleans Jazz, Fourplay's Silver Anniversary & Pete Escovedo Orch. which were very good. George Lopez as host was very good too,kept things moving along well.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
LAmuze
Best bands were early in the day. The later acts were not really jazz and not that great (Janelle Monae). Music was good, but so many people talked through the performances that it was distracting. The people in our section were obviously not there for the music, as so many of them got out-of-control drunk.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
I loved the atmosphere and the music outstanding! I have always enjoyed the festival and will come again.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
dinosoldies
This was a lot of fun and all kinds of different sounds....a little something for everybody! Will come again but maybe both nights....seven hours of great jazz....cannot beat the price! People were dancing in the aisles and the ladies with bunny ears were cool.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Lyburtus
It was a wonderful day all the way around, I especially enjoyed the E.Band, featuring Sheila E. & her father Pete Escovedo. But hands down, the highlights were first, Liv Warfield! She is a Force on that stage!! Just wow! And then there's Janelle Monae & her band!! She was just Amazing & left us all wanting more!! I overhear a couple behind us say that they had never heard of Monae before, but that they felt she was the best act of the day & I'd have to agree!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
DeeBossWoman
I always enjoy day 2 at the PB Jazz Fest. I love meeting new people. Food. Dance. Music. I wish the lineup had more known acts. But Janelle Monet was THE BEST!! She is utterly amazing. I tried BOX seats for the first time. I cannot go back to the benches. It's a whole different experience from the box!! I love it!! See ya next year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
rswj
Got there late, but enjoyed the show. Robert Cray band was great with tribute to bb King. However, Janelle Monae was not good, put on the wrong bill. Voice was fair, absolutely waste of time. She is a pop singer, not jazz artist, and not good. Bowl is always fun
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
heelgirl
Hollywood Bowl by itself is an amazing experience, but then throw in multiple talented and entertaining jazz musicians and nearly eight straight hours of fantastic music, and it's hard to imagine a better way to spend a day! The revolving two-part stage means there is no down time between acts, and the energy of the crowd was fantastic -- everyone is so happy and laid-back and jamming to the music, can't wait for next year!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Gigiredbone
You should go . It was great. Pack your own drinks and snacks. Bring a sweater and where comfortable shoes. I recommend closed toe. I wore sandals and stepped in something awful.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
cpc061
I love the acoustics here at the Hollywood Bowl. The lighting and background was beautiful. Security was on their best behavior and for the most part didn't bother people dancing or chit chatting in the aisle. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Minus a star for the atrocious parking, they only have stacked parking on the location, so if you drive around be prepared to spen d another $25.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
MzJackzon
Had an amazing and wonderful time!!!! Enjoyed George Lopez as the MC. The tribute to B.B. King was remarkable. The Escovedo Family and their Latin Jazz was simply mind-blowing. Had a great time and experience.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
SSHahn
for decades this is a wonderful afternoon / evening of jazz
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Nmk04747
Great event, great venue. Wonderful vibe, lots of positive energy and great music. Lineup was well chosen, each act as good, and the evening just kept getting better. Worth the long drive, would definitely go again!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Vaskme
So glad I got to see Janelle Monae perform. She killed it. The rest was meehhhhh. But I had a good time. Good group around us. I'd go again next year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
safetypron
All acts were very entertaining and made for a fun-filled evening. I enjoyed the great atmosphere at the bowl. it was like a giant block party!!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ALLISON17
This was my first time at this event. We had a great time.Took the shuttle with ease, paid $6 a person and it took it straight to the event gate. I would recommend the shuttle as parking is a nightmare $23.00 to stack park. Once in the event, security was great, got us through the line quickly and into the event. The line up was awesome, no breaks. All the entertainers were ready to go right after each other. Great group of people around us. We will be going again next year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
JDel77
The Playboy Jazz Festival 2016 (Saturday) did not disappoint. There was a great vibe in the place, as usual. The music was excellent. Joey Alexander is a young genius! Naturally 7 was amazing and Los Van Van put on a great show. My only complaint was the sound was terribly inconsistent the entire show. There were times when we could barely hear any singing over the instruments. It was a real distraction for me and my step-dad, especially because we weren't inebriated like most Jazz Festival goers. Other than that, I had an amazing time and look forward to next year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Anonymous
Lots of maijuana in the air. Very low key affair. Not sexy or glamorous at all. Weather was gloomy and wet. We got stuck in the tunnel to parking lot C. Very overcrowded. Lack of pedestrian traffic control. Probably wont be back. Masters of ceremony George Lopez was bland and out dated. Lacked true soul. It only picked up at the end with some conga beats. Ill go back when Im 60+ over. Or married 25 + years.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
wiljr
very disappointed in this year's line-up.....with all the great jazz artists available seems like they could step up they're game...one of the most disappointing shows yet...we've been 18 years now and this was the worst...rethink next when picking line-up
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
wateryeye
Past shows were better. A well known musician usually ends the night with an unforgettable performance. This year I left early cuz the music was stale and boring most of the night. Things changed after Bill Cosby left. They need to revamp their lineup, especially for Saturday's show .
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
yankster2
Of all the years I have attended, NO ICE CHEST size enforced, until now. I paid extra money for the ice chest, and the Bowl staff Still did not let our Ice chest into the venue. Not happy with the bowl, we tried and follow rules about fire marshall regulations and paid for the seat.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Derrick21
first of all the people was great. The couples next to me around me and behind were all awsume. tThe music was great and the weather was not hot at all.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Jazzygirl909
It was a very nice concert, I had a blast,will definitely be there next summer!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Anonymous
The festival starts at 3pm and runs until close to 11pm, be aware of the stacked parking and you cannot leave before then since your car is more than likely trapped. Also, do not take a umbrella with you, first time there and had no idea it would cause for me to go back to outside of the line to check in the umbrella which had a line. We had a good time enjoyed great artists but it did seem to go on longer than we liked with the car being trapped in parking. Seth MacFarlane sang most of the set for over an hour while the other performers seemed to have a five song limit. Next time we will park elsewhere and walk or take a taxi. Since the event runs so late, it is recommended to stay overnight if you live a decent distance away but plan ahead since hotels cost between $150-$400 for the decent ones.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Babyrock
I have been coming to the Playboy Jazz Festival every year since 1998 and each year the big name artist decreases. I enjoy going to see friends that I haven't seen in a while but I'm not pleased with the quality of artist that perform most are unknown and I know that there are more qualified artist out there. My friends always ask me who was there and I can only give them a couple of recognizable artist
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
RoneeC
All I can say is one word to describe my experience. I am a Cold Play fan for years and Janelle Monae was and is always an Amazing performer.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 11, 2016
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Lauraazev
I love this event and it needs to be an annual thing!! Great day around fellow music lovers, dancing and amazing performers. A MUST!!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
This was my first time attending the festival, been wanting to go for a long time. The lineup was great, the people were great & Hollywood Bowl was the right place for it. Keep in mind, I flew in from NJ! I will definitely be back next year!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
paufeu
These two musicians made this concert an unforgettable event! Joey and Joshua, what a combination. Next time they should perform together.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
monywayne
BONEY JAMES,CANDY DOLFER, CRAIG CHQUISO,HOW BOUT THESE ACTS !!!! SAW HARVEY MASON LAST YEAR THEN THIS YEAR HE'S BACK WITH FOURPLAY...COZ IS GONE SO RELOAD. PLAYBOY JAZZ FES WAS ON FATHER'S DAY WEEKEND WHAT HAPPENED ?????? I'M SORRY BUT I HAVE BEEN COMING TO PLAYBOY SINCE 1984. SUNDAY PROBALLY WAS MY LAST ONE. ITS JUST NOT THE SAME SMOOTHE JAZZ.....RIP PLAYBOY JAZZ FESTIVAL. YOU ONCE WERE GREAT !!!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Mzraest
We've been attending with my in laws for several years. Always have a wonderful time
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
DrPerri
One of the best events of the year every year. Music, love, and movement! Stupendous!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
Heartbroken24
This was my first Playboy Jazz Fest, so I did not know what to expect. This will be my last! This is the first time I have ever had a horrible experience at the Hollywood Bowl. The crowd was not there for the music, only to socialize and occasionally look over and hit a beach ball, one of the many through out the day. The only time the crowd went silent and actually respected an artist was for the group Naturally 7. The bowl staff did not have control over the crowd. I understand that it wasn't a classical concert so the level of quietness would be different. But I went there to watch Seth MacFarlane perform and it seemed like he bored the crowd in my upper section, all of promenade 3. Whoever made the lineup for this performance did not take into consideration the flow of music and artist change. Naturally 7 was more upbeat and had the crowd standing, clapping, and dancing. Seth was more mellow and his music was much slower. He does have a big name, but because of the music tempo progression through out the progran, he should have performed earlier in the day. The few portions of Seth MacFarlane's set which I was actually able to hear over the heckling crowd were great. It was just very disappointing that people do not respect performers. If that is the atmosphere of this crowd every year, perhaps the organizers should reconsider the musical acts they select.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
MrBBQ
This was my 10th PBJF and it was my best one ever. All the regulars in SEC N1 & N2 Matt yu know who you are where there. I had it all beach balls (landed near me 6 times) jello shots, beads, ribs, wine and a lot of Greens. Can't wait until next year year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
SandyLinette
I had the most awesome time at the Playboy Jazz Festival 2015. I can't wait until 2016 to do it all over again!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
SandyLinette
I had an awesome time at the Playboy Jazz Festival. I will be returning next year to continue this tradition.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Vince1956
2ND YEAR FOR ME AND IT WAS ALL GOOD!! ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU CAN BYOB AND FOOD THE ARTISTS WERE ALL GOOD, A RELAXING AND ENJOYABLE TIME. IF YOU HAVEN'T BEEN YOU GOTTA GO.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
TrypleL
My Baby n I had one of the best Father's Day ever at the 2014 Playboy Jazz Festival!! We enjoyed listening to great jazz music while eating our delicious bbq ribs, links, chicken, some seafood, pasta salad. Of course there was great drinks and that bonb azz jello I made ;-) The people we're a lot of fun and so friendly, all throughout the day people asked to take a picture of me and my baby :-) We were only able to bring 1 friend with us, but hopefully we will bring more next year. WE DANCED, WE LAUGHED, WE SANG, WE HAD A BLAST!!! We can't wait to go again!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Invstnme
The music was great and the people all fun and friendly. Our group brought food and beverages to share with each other first at a lovely picnic on the hill just outside of the venue then more inside. No matter what I'm there for, The Hollywood Bowl is the best musical venue in Los Angeles!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Vince1956
First time there, I always wanted to go but just never got around to it, I am glad I finally did, the music was fantastic you get to BYOB and food a real kick back atmosphere, I will be doing this again for years to come
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Jackims
Last acts were BORING... Finale not memorable as in past years.... We miss BILL COSBY...... Cedric the Entertainer should be considered as HOST
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Ladearies71
Great atmosphere, pleasant people, & even better music.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Bittie13
We consider only 3 of the groups to be Jazz. George Lopez is good. He's not Bill Cosby, but no one could be other than Bill. We love jazz, we love the Bowl, but the 11 of us in three boxes, could stay home, have a cater and dj (or even hire a banc) for a lot less money. We buy early so we can get the boxes and don't know the line up when we buy. We're not planning on doing it again, which is sad since we've been there for 6 years.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
VEGBENZBOY
FIRST YEAR. HAD A WONDERFUL EVENING OF LISTENING TO SOME OF THE BEST ARTISTS UNDER THE STARS.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
PlayHers
Not to take away from Bill Cosby but George Lopez was very very good as the host. loved loved loved naturally 7 Stanley Clarke and Jeffrey Osborne.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
MusicLoverExtrodinaire
I had a wonderful time at the Playboy Jazz Festival. I am glad I went again this year. My thoughts were I needed to see India Arie and Sheile E. Well it turns out I NEEDED to experience the AWESOME performance of Trombone Shorty. I was in awe the whole performance. I did enjoy all the acts prior to Trombone Shorty; however, he reminded us that we were there to partay!! And partay we did. I recommend anyone who has not gone to one of the festivals to attend. It is always fun and I met and chat with everyone around. It's like a block party.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 16, 2013
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
PEARLA
THE PLAYBOY JAZZ FESTIVAL WAS AWESOME!!! IT WAS VERY ORGANIZED. I WILL CONTINUE TO GO EVERY YEAR. NZINGA
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
nylaTj
The festival was great, lots of music, nice people. Everybody was having a great time, sharing their food, listening to music, relaxing, drinking, dancing, and chatting. The parking lot is limited and stacked (everybody leaves at the same time). I parked on a Church for $25 and it wasn't a stacked parking. I was able to leave at my own time. I avoided the traffic by arriving late at the event and leaving early, I was there for four hours. Perfect timing.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Mark928
It was a great event although at least half the acts couldn't be called jazz. I came in at the Taj Mahal Band which was a blues act. Not jazz at all. Of the 6 acts that I heard, only 2 were jazz: The Clayton Hamilton Orchestra and Bob James/David Sanborn. All the acts were very good and I especially enjoyed seeing Sheila E. but it is really stretching it to call this a "jazz festival" with so little jazz.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Momuslar
Playboy Jazz Festival was fantastic as usual. We went on Saturday. Once again, the bowl was outta control. If you've never been, make it a point to attend at least once. If you have, see you again next year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
oly3b
We were glad we had the chance to see Bill Cosby! We enjoyed all the bands and the music was incredible! This was our first time at the Hollywood Bowl. Looking around the stands, Everyone was having good time. Overall experience was Great! Can't wait for next year! Planning another event in the near future.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
calotta37
I had a good time both nights and I loved all of the groups who performed. But the headliners Sheila E. and Robin Thicke were off the chain and I can wait for next year.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
65yankees
excellent fantastic bands.all the bands were the best ever .I go every year and love the atmosphere .will go again in 2013.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Positivity5
What a FABULOUS event for Angelino's and world traveling music lovers alike! We had a group of 10 brothers, sisters, husbands and wives sitting next to us who were in town just for this event from Atlanta. The vibe is SO positive out there for this event and the weather was AMAZING! This was my first PBJF but it will most certainly not be my last.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
CookieMonstah
Since 1991...I've only missed the Playboy Jazz Festival one time...2000. It's the best and over the years I've seen way too many Grade A acts including Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, Joe Williams, Dianne Reeves, Bella & The Flecktones, Patti Austin featuring James Ingram, Wynton Marsailles, Ramsey Lewis, Norman Brown, Etta James, Dr.John, Chaka Khan, Tito Puente, Pancho Sanchez...should I go on? It's the BEST of the SUMMER JAZZ FESTIVALS...hands down. Do NOT miss it...ever!!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
JayWB7
Excellent eclectic mix. Highlights were sets by: The Roots, Eddie Palmieri, Dianne Reeves, Rebirth Jazz Band and Scofield & Ford.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 12, 2011
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
scharlotte2
i enjoyed the atmosphere and love the view from where iw as sitting there are no bad seats at the Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
This year the playboy jazz was awesome on both days. Thank you for Natural 7, and Diana Reeves and the Roots and Ronnie Laws. The young kid Quinn on Sunday was spectacular, It was good to the Rueben Stoddard. Thank You Playboy Jazz, I will see you next year to do it again.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
djtick
The concert was more of a social event with people talking drinking and eating nonstop, the music was more of a background for the big party. Not the best way to enjoy jazz music.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Jaeboo
The preformers are non descript and are up and coming.Need more headliners. Show is getting weaker and weaker every year..The crowd is the show!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
professionalmusician
We traveled from northern California for this show as my husband had attended a few years ago and really liked it. To put it mildly, this experience was dreadful. The music was terrible - just loud and without musicality. The performers just did non ending vamps with a couple of words now and then. It was not even jazz, just noise. The audience was drunk and rude. Many stood in the aisles drinking and would not move for those trying to get through. Security was not present. We suffered through an hour and a half, hoping it would get better, but it only got worse. We left then and will never come back. I can only imagine what happened as people became more and more drunk.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
francesvilla2008
Such and amazing venue and atmosphere!! Music is great and George Lopez as MC is a great choice!! This was are 11 year and we always have a great time. People from all walks of life brought together by there love of music AWESOME!! Can't wait till next year!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jwillarde
This is the coolest and most fun-filled concert of the year. My son joined me this year and we had a total blast.......
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Anonymous
Not overly impressed with this years Festival. Tower of Power was great, but the rest....
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
ZCMB
aisle too crowded, people did not appear to be into the music as in past years
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
jzr55
I was disappointed that there was was no blues representation this year at the festival. I have seen a number of great blues artists at previous festivals. I hope in 2016 there will be a return to the blues.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 13, 2015
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Cattattack
This was our first time attending the festival. I can't believe what I have been missing. The line up was awesome. The people sitting around us where just as good. George Lopez was funny. Overall we had a wonderful time.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
swaccchow
Used to enjoy good lineups including new startups. Many street artists play better than most in this venue. Very disappointed.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
elninoleon
I have attended the festival many times, beginning with the first one in '78. I have missed maybe 10 events since then.This is the 'adult party' of the summer/year. No matter the lineup of artist,it's always fun and cool.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
Great show love the entertainers and best of all loved George Lopez.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Numbskull
Great music, great venue, and great audience. Also, the park outside Hollywood Bowl is a great place for a picnic prior to entering the concert. It was a "way laid back" atmosphere. There were a variety of jazz bands, from easy listening to more traditional to Latin. We were also treated to some nice blues on the side. So -- when ya got a combination of great musicians like that performing for an appreciative crowd -- it makes for a nice day. In addition to all that, the weather was in the 70's. Perfect.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
congoo
I had an awesome time. Check in at the festival was quick and efficient. Restroom lines were not long, and the bathrooms cleaned. Programs cost for this year was awesome. I will definitely be there next year. Seating a bit tight, but I plan on buying (3) seats next year, performances were awesome!!!! I had a great time!!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Bodymitch
Great jazz music coming in different styles (dynamic, non-vocal, popular). Loved Jamie Cullum but overall sound level was too low. Appreciated the whole picnic/friendly atmosphere but too many people do not care much about the music and it is difficult to enjoy. Talking for the 3rd section though (cheaper).
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
12mpres
Great place to take your father, husband, lover or friend for Father's Day. Amazing talent, mellow crowd and great weather!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
19CJ78
This years line up was sub par. I really enjoyed Jose James, Jon Batiste and was uber excited about George Benson and of course Fantasia. The let down was knowing that Fantasia would not be the closer and that George Benson's performance was...well, just okay. Los Amigos Invisibles closed and I am sure their energy was great but I did not find it worth waiting around for the entire performance. I do miss past Jazz festival appearances like, Mr. Boney James, Etta James, Nancy Wilson and the like. When it is all said and done, I love the Hollywood Bowl and it is always a good time to experience to see a concert in this place. However, this year's line up was not that great.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Suvro
In order of what we saw and heard: James Cotton Blues Band with Big Jay McNeely Juan de Marco & The Afro-Cuban All starts Jon Batiste and Stay Human Jose James Dave Holland, Kevin Eubanks, Craig Taborn, and Eric Harland Dr. Lonnie Smith Fantasia George Benson with Earl Klugh Los Amigos Invisibles did not hear The blues band was good but we had just sat down, sun was hot on our necks, and we were taking stock of the situation when their time ended. George Lopez was the MC. Afro-Cuban band sounded so stale every song had the same takapakapika beat, and unless one understands the lyrics, it sounded exactly like the same! Jon Batiste was OK sounded more like a rock band. Jose James was funk and some R&B one or two good numbers but the rest was boring. Kevin Eubanks was the band leader for Jay Leno during his first stint. They played good jazz, but more meant for an intimate club setting lot of subtleties and low volume stuff showing off virtuoso guitar playing but not really the right fit for the Bowl. Lonnie Smith was really quite interesting at least I had to stop chatting with my neighbor and listen with full attention. He is quite a character calls himself Dr. because he feels he is like a doctor, wears a turban and has long white beard but not a Sikh it is for stylistic reasons. He is African-American. And plays the B3 Hammond organ. But his music was very enjoyable. But that came towards the end. And them came Fantasia I had NO idea about her but Googling showed that she was the winner of the fourth American Idol season, and Simon Collwell and the other black judge have both said that she was the BEST ever artist to appear on Idol all seasons included. She won grammy for best vocal. It seemed a large fraction of the crowd (specially African-Americans) came to hear her as soon as she appeared they were on their feet. And she rocked the Bowl like no one I have seen everybody was dancing! I had a good time she worked herself up to a sweating frenzy. Towards the end she sang more slower single soul type numbers. George Benson after her was a comedown! We heard the first number, and left midway through the second. My friend had a 7:30am meeting today, so he was definitely driving back, and we still had to have dinner we had decided to not eat at the bowl we had wine, cheese, some nuts and folks nearby passed us some brownies so we were not starving.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sun, Jun 15, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Parlaywizard
The Hollywood bowl is a great venue for live music, the sound flows out to all areas awesome, also the choice to bring in yaa goodies and everyone had plenty of goodies, there was no problems just another well plan events thanks a bunch ticketmaster P town in the house
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
nikkipooh
I was quite surprised at Fantasia's performance considering she's not an actual Jazz Artist...LOL...it's a Jazz Festival!! Well, she was fantastic. The crowd was standing and dancing during her entire performance.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
BowlOfFun
Great afternoon of good music and friends. The best part is that you can bring your own food and drinks.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
My husband and I totally enjoyed ourselves. It was his first time going and wants to make it an annual event. The majority of the artists were great (99%) but the artist from the UK seemed to be on an acid trip. I thought it was disrespectful of him to drink out of one of the guests' cup and then had the nerve to say "sorry but my mouth is clean". Otherwise, it was a great event.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Anonymous
Sunday's artists musical selections sounded more like music you'd listen to during intermission. Every selection was slow and began to put me and others in a slumber. Plus, the security did not enforce the rules of not smoking in the theater. It was very uncomfortable sitting among the fumes and when we complained to security, nothing was done. We didn't stay until the end; we left at 7:30 pm.
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
ralphshaha
The Sat. version of the Playboy Jazz had many great sounds and moments!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
Great line-up!!! James Cotton Blues Band, Fantasia & George Benson were AMAZING!!!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Anonymous
I had an amazing time at the Playboy Jazz Festival on both Saturday and Sunday
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
frankiealma
This is one of the best parties of the year . . . always . . .
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
SSVmicg
It was my 1st time seeing Fantasia live. Her electrifying performance reminded me of Ms. Tina Turner. Her energy is amazing. She bonded with the audience. I had with me my eldest daughter 34 and my youngest son 10, they both loved it. Mr. George benson is always awesome. I loved the time he spent with us partying. He's ageless and transcends age, gender, and class. I loved the lineup this year. The Cuban Allstars we're a party starter. The Love in the air and Freedom to vibe is indescribable. Next year I plan on securing two benches in our same area. Pomona's Finest SSV 4 Life!
Hollywood Bowl - Hollywood, CA - Sat, Jun 14, 2014
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