JBL brand is the most recognized audio brand in the world. For 72 years, JBL has been engineering a precise, impressive sound. From iconic events like Woodstock in 1969, to presidential inaugurations, concerts at Madison Square Garden and the Staples Center, Coachella Festival, and games at major stadiums, JBL has helped listeners have unforgettable experiences. The brand has won a Grammy, an Oscar, and several other awards for technological achievements.Last year the first JBL Fest became the talk of the town when it landed in Las Vegas and created a major buzz.
The second annual JBL Fest, held this October, was highly anticipated and exceeded all expectations.
An immersive, three-day JBL experience brought guests from all over the world—loyal fans, partners, influencers, journalists, and of course, performers and entertainers. JBL created a unique opportunity for those guests to learn everything about the brand firsthand from the engineers, experience the powerful sound from car audio systems during Joy Ride, and party it up with the biggest celebrities and JBL ambassadors.
JBL Fest began at Omnia Nightclub with “COVERS” (An Intimate Musical Experience with the legendary Quincy Jones), followed by the JBL Platinum Party. Quincy Jones introduced his mentees (Clark Beckham, Jonah Nilsson, and Shelea), who performed several songs produced by the iconic producer, including Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Jones answered a few questions about his career and told the audience that he learned how to “party and work at the University of Ray and Frank,” referring to Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra. The 28-time Grammy Award winner mentioned the importance of mentorship , saying that he himself was mentored while coming up (Jones was mentored by the likes of Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, and Count Basie), and it’s important to give back because these new artists are the future. (Editor’s Note: If you haven’t seen “QUINCY,” a new Netflix documentary about the life of Quincy Jones, co-directed and co-written by his daughter, Rashida Jones, and Alan Hicks, you absolutely must.) After “COVERS,” the audience moved to the party where the host for the weekend, model and influencer Olivia Culpo, brought out Rachel Platten to perform her biggest hits (including “Fight Song” and “I’ll Stand By You”). Legendary NBA champions Kevin Garnett and Magic Johnson were in attendance.
Day 2 began with the “How to Listen” Session, where JBL’s lead sound engineers walked the audience through the listening process and training on how to evaluate sound. After that, the guests were able to experience the new in-vehicle sound systems during Joy Ride and use their newly acquired knowledge. .
Tinie Tempah (the UK’s hip-hop, rap, and grime sensation and JBL ambassador) lit up the stage when he performed to a full house at JBL LIVE! at the Brooklyn Bowl. Pop star Ellie Goulding brought the house down and wowed the crowd when she came on stage and performed her hits, including “Love Me Like You Do,” “Burn,” and “First Time.” Even though the singer lost her voice mere hours before the show and it was unknown until the very last moment if she was going to be able to go on stage, Goulding crushed it and made the crowds go wild. .
The appearance of global superstar and award-winning actress, producer, and philanthropist, Priyanka Chopra, was highly anticipated. She attended JBL Social Suite and made a special guest appearance on stage at JBL Sound Splash Pool Party, talking about her excitement in joining the JBL family and welcoming Mr. Worldwide, Pitbull, to the stage. Pitbull’s brought his unstoppable energy, infectious hits (including “Timber,” “Feel This Moment,” “Don’t Stop the Party,” “Time of Our Lives,” and “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)”), and powerful messages between songs. What a way to close a fantastic festival!
JBL created a unique and unforgettable experience! And we are absolutely looking forward to #Year 3 of JBL FEST!
Recap by Irina Liakh
Photos courtesy of JBL
