With a 43-year legacy, the Yellowjackets have released 26 albums, earned 16 Grammy® nominations, and built a reputation as one of jazz’s most influential groups. Originally formed in the late 1970s as Robben Ford’s backing band, they soon evolved into their own powerhouse trio.

The lineup continued to grow and change, with longtime members Russell Ferrante, William Kennedy, and Bob Mintzer maintaining the band’s signature electro-acoustic sound and exceptional musicianship. Known for consistently reinventing themselves while honoring their jazz roots, the Yellowjackets remain a vital force in contemporary jazz, captivating audiences around the world with their innovation and enduring artistry. Their performance will serve as an amazing kick-off to the 36th Annual Purdue Jazz Festival which brings thousands of high school musicians to Purdue’s campus.

Yellowjackets fans for the past couple decades have come to know that there’s no categorizing the music.
— New York Daily News