Best Jazz Vocal Album: Samara Joy – A Joyful Holiday
Samara Joy has quickly become the defining voice of modern jazz vocals. After winning Best New Artist in 2023, she continues to impress with A Joyful Holiday, an album that breathes new life into classic holiday standards. Her velvety voice and impeccable phrasing evoke the golden era of jazz while still feeling fresh and contemporary. In addition to this award, she also won Best Jazz Performance for her stunning rendition of Twinkle Twinkle Little Me featuring Sullivan Fortner.
Best Jazz Instrumental Album: Xhosa Cole – On A Modern Genius Vol. 1
British saxophonist Xhosa Cole takes a deep dive into the works of Thelonious Monk with On A Modern Genius Vol. 1. A bold reinterpretation of Monk’s compositions, the album captures Cole’s adventurous spirit, blending technical precision with raw emotion. Winning in this category cements his status as one of the most exciting saxophonists of his generation.
Best Jazz Instrumental Album: Chick Corea & Béla Fleck – Remembrance
The duo of Chick Corea and Béla Fleck was also recognized in this category for their album Remembrance, a project that blends intricate compositions with masterful improvisation. Their collaboration continues to push jazz forward, honoring tradition while embracing innovation.
Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album:
Bianca Reimagined: Music For Paws And Persistence – Dan Pugach Big Band
Dan Pugach and his powerhouse ensemble continue to redefine big band jazz with adventurous arrangements and dynamic performances. This Grammy win highlights their ability to merge tradition with contemporary flair, delivering a sound that is as bold as it is refined.
Best Latin Jazz Album: Zaccai Curtis – Cubop Lives!
Zaccai Curtis, a distinguished jazz pianist and educator, took home the Grammy for Best Latin Jazz Album with Cubop Lives!. This vibrant, rhythmic journey through the world of Latin jazz showcases Curtis’s expertise not only as a performer but also as an arranger. The album’s 17 tracks feature covers of jazz legends such as Jackie McLean, Dizzy Gillespie, and Charlie Parker, as well as three original compositions by Curtis. Cubop Lives! stands as a testament to his ability to bridge past and present while preserving the genre’s deep cultural roots.
Rising Stars to Watch
Beyond the winners, several nominees and emerging artists made a strong impression at this year’s Grammys:
- Laufey – The Icelandic-Chinese singer-songwriter continues to bring jazz to a younger audience with her jazz-pop fusion album Bewitched.
- Joel Ross – A vibraphonist whose intricate compositions push the boundaries of contemporary jazz.
- Moses Yoofee Trio – A Berlin-based trio blending jazz with hip-hop and electronic influences, earning recognition for their debut album MYT.
With such a rich and diverse lineup of artists, the 2025 Grammy Awards have reaffirmed jazz’s enduring impact on music. Whether through classic interpretations or bold new directions, these musicians are shaping the future of jazz for generations to come.
