Casablanca – The third evening of Jazzablanca 2026 opened on a celebratory note as José James took over Scene 21 moments after Morocco secured its place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
With Morocco defeating Canada 3-0, Anfa Park quickly transformed into a space where football and music met, extending the excitement from the match into the festival grounds.
José James slightly delayed the beginning of his performance to allow festivalgoers to follow the match.
Minutes after the final whistle, he walked onto the stage holding a Moroccan jersey, immediately turning the opening of his set into a shared celebration with the audience.
A tribute through jazz, soul, and R&B
Recognized for his ability to blend jazz, soul, hip-hop, and R&B into a sound that is entirely his own, José James brought the same musical elegance that has defined his career for nearly two decades.
His Jazzablanca performance was dedicated to the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s iconic album “I Want You,” revisiting the timeless record through fresh arrangements while preserving the emotional depth that made it a classic.
Joined by acclaimed singer China Moses, the performance unfolded as a seamless dialogue between two remarkable voices.
Together, they moved effortlessly between soulful melodies, refined jazz harmonies, and contemporary rhythms, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and vibrant.
A celebration on and off the stage
And the audience embraced every moment.
Still carried by Morocco’s World Cup victory, festivalgoers filled the air with applause, dancing, and sing-alongs, making the performance feel as much like a celebration as a concert.
The excitement from the football pitch blended naturally with José James’ soulful repertoire, creating one of the festival’s most memorable openings, where national pride and live music came together in the heart of Anfa Park.
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