Two Legends Collide: Rolling Stones and Irma Thomas rock Jazzfest 2024

Mick Jagger and Irma Thomas after they sang her song “Time is on my side” during the Rolling Stones performance at the 2024 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on Thursday, May 2nd. Photo by Chris Granger, The Times-Picayune.

In a city renowned for its musical heritage, few events capture the spirit of New Orleans quite like the Jazz and Heritage Festival. And when two musical titans like the Rolling Stones and Irma Thomas share the stage, magic is bound to happen. At the 2024 edition of the festival, these iconic artists came together for a historic performance that left audiences spellbound and reaffirmed New Orleans' status as the soulful heart of American music.

The Rolling Stones, with their legendary status and decades-spanning career, need no introduction. Their electrifying presence on stage, coupled with Mick Jagger's unmistakable vocals and Keith Richards' iconic guitar riffs, ensured that their performance was nothing short of spectacular. From timeless classics like "Satisfaction" to crowd favorites like "Start Me Up," the Stones delivered a set that was equal parts nostalgic and exhilarating, proving that their rock 'n' roll spirit remains as vibrant as ever.

Sharing the stage with the Stones was Irma Thomas, affectionately known as the "Soul Queen of New Orleans." With her powerful voice and soulful delivery, Thomas has been a beloved figure in the city's music scene for over six decades. Her performance at the Jazz and Heritage Festival was a testament to her enduring talent and influence, as she captivated audiences with hits like "Time Is on My Side" and "Wish Someone Would Care," showcasing the depth and richness of her musical legacy.

But it wasn't just the individual performances that made this collaboration special—it was the synergy between these two musical icons that truly elevated the experience. As Jagger and Thomas traded verses on the classic ballad "Wild Horses," their voices intertwining in perfect harmony, it was clear that something magical was unfolding on stage. In that moment, the boundaries between rock and soul, age and youth, faded away, leaving only the pure, unadulterated joy of music.

For those lucky enough to witness this historic performance at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, it was an experience they'll never forget. From the infectious energy of the crowd to the electrifying chemistry between the artists, it was a celebration of music in its purest form—a testament to the enduring power of melody, rhythm, and soul. And for New Orleans, it was yet another chapter in a storied musical legacy that continues to inspire and uplift generations of music lovers around the world.