Nate Smith Takes the Stage at Newport | Richmond News

Nate Smith, Grammy-winning drummer and rising jazz force, is taking the reins as artistic director of the legendary Newport Jazz Festival — a three-year role that blends legacy with fresh energy. Just days after winning his Grammys for LIVE-ACTION, Smith landed the gig, stepping into the shoes of Christian McBride to curate and perform at the July 31 to August 2 event. He’s already planning to spotlight Richmond’s vibrant scene with acts like Butcher Brown and Fonville x Fribush, proving how deeply connected Virginia’s talent is to the jazz tradition. With a packed schedule and a mission to honor the past while shaping the future, Smith’s appointment signals a bold new chapter for one of jazz’s most iconic stages — and he’s ready to move, hydrate, and sleep his way through it. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e8fe15baf5ac25b7