Overview
with special guest performer April May Webb
Meet the new generation of jaw-dropping jazz talent! The Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition is the search for the world’s next great jazz singer, and the only contest of its kind. At this public performance, vocalists compete for a $5,000 prize and a one-of-a-kind platform for embarking on a career in the music business.
Many esteemed jazz artists have started their career at The SASSY Awards: Cyrille Aimée, G. Thomas Allen, Gabrielle Cavassa, Deelee Dubé, Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso, Jazzmeia Horn, Samara Joy, Kate Kortum, Quiana Lynell, Tyreek McDole, Arianna Neikrug, Ashleigh Smith, Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim and Laurin Talese and April May Webb.
The 2026 event is hosted by Gary Walker of WBGO’s DayBreak. The all-star judging panel includes José James, T.S. Monk, Jason Olaine, Gretchen Parlato and Lillias White. There will be a special performance by 2024 competition winner April May Webb.
