Harry Connick Jr. brought his signature charm, virtuosity, and jazz-infused energy to the 2004 Newport Jazz Festival, creating a concert experience that remains unforgettable nearly two decades later. Recorded live on October 12, 2004, in Newport, Rhode Island, Connick’s full performance showcased why he is widely regarded as one of the premier voices and pianists in contemporary jazz.

From the opening notes of “The Other Hours,” Connick immediately captured the audience with his warm, expressive vocals and precise piano work. The set effortlessly moved through a range of moods and styles, including the upbeat swing of “What a Waste” and the playful storytelling of “Oh, My Dear (Something’s Gone Wrong).” Connick’s natural ability to blend technical mastery with emotional depth allowed each song to resonate with both longtime jazz aficionados and newer fans discovering his work for the first time.

“Do Dat Thing” highlighted Connick’s flair for rhythm and improvisation, giving the audience a glimpse of his skill in creating spontaneous musical moments while maintaining tight ensemble coordination. The energy carried through to the closer, “Take Advantage,” leaving festival-goers in Newport immersed in a performance that balanced classic jazz traditions with Connick’s modern sensibilities.

Tonight, listeners have the rare opportunity to experience the full magic of this 2004 Newport Jazz Festival set on the All Things Considered Live Radio Show. Every track, every piano flourish, and every vocal nuance is featured in its entirety, allowing audiences to relive the excitement of one of Connick’s most memorable festival performances. This special broadcast not only honors Connick’s artistry but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the Newport Jazz Festival as a historic hub for live jazz performances.

Connick’s Newport set serves as a vivid reminder of the vitality and richness of live jazz. The festival, set against the scenic backdrop of Rhode Island’s coastal charm, provided the perfect atmosphere for Connick’s charismatic stage presence and musical storytelling. His combination of heartfelt lyrics, impeccable timing, and joyous improvisation made this performance a standout moment in the 2004 festival lineup.

For jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike, tonight’s All Things Considered Live Radio Show offers a front-row seat to a legendary performance. It’s an immersive journey through a full concert that demonstrates Harry Connick Jr.’s ability to captivate audiences, bridging generations with music that remains vibrant and timeless.

Explore more about live performances, jazz history, and upcoming musical events in New Jersey at Explore New Jersey Music. Harry Connick Jr.’s Newport Jazz Festival concert exemplifies the enduring power of live music, where every note tells a story and every performance becomes a shared celebration of artistry.

For fans eager to dive deeper, additional Harry Connick Jr. performances and concert archives are available at Music Vault here, with subscription details at this link.