AZ Jazz Fest 2025 Canceled; Promoters Honoring Refunds Amid Broader Industry Disruptions

CHANDLER, Ariz. — The organizers of the Arizona Jazz Fest have announced the cancellation of the 2025 event, which was scheduled for November 7–9 at the West Valley Event Complex.

A statement posted on the festival’s official website cited “unforeseen circumstances beyond our control” as the reason for the cancellation. Promoters have confirmed that refunds are being honored, and several attendees have already reported receiving their money back.

While the exact cause of the cancellation has not been specified, one of the festival’s headliners, Charlie Wilson, has recently undergone back surgery and continues to recover from related health issues. Live Nation has canceled or postponed several of Wilson’s shows scheduled in October and November, both before and after the planned AZ Jazz Fest dates, indicating he likely would have been unable to perform at the festival.

Widespread Cancellations in the R&B and Live Music Space

The AZ Jazz Fest is not the only large-scale music event to face disruptions this season. In recent weeks, Chris Brown’s Memphis concert at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium was canceled due to venue complications. Live Nation also confirmed the cancellation of Usher’s Australian arena tour scheduled for late 2025, and Reneé Rapp’s “Bite Me” Tour postponed several U.S. dates because of illness.

These examples highlight that event cancellations — while disappointing — are a regular part of the live entertainment industry, often stemming from factors beyond promoters’ control, including artist health, production logistics, and venue issues.

Although the 2025 edition will not move forward, fans remain hopeful that AZ Jazz Fest will return in the future, continuing its legacy of blending world-class R&B and jazz performances in Arizona’s West Valley.