Often cited as "America's classical music", jazz has soundtracted the nation's complex social and cultural history since the late 19th century. The genre's enduring influence and versatility is celebrated each year at the Newport Jazz Festival, the inaugural edition of which took place 65 years ago today.⁠ Billed as the "First Annual American Jazz Festival", the event was hosted by the Rhode Island city's casino, with Billie Holiday headlining a program of music performances and academic discussion.⁠ The curated gallery in our bio link takes a look at the stars and spectators who have graced this long-running highlight in the live music calendar, including Nina Simone in 1968. 📷: David Redfern/Redferns/Getty Images | gettyarchive⁠ ⁠ #ninasimone #newportjazzfestival #newportjazz #jazzfestival #musichistory #younggiftedandblack #aintgotnoigotlife #feelinggood #mississippigoddamn #sinnerman #mybabyjustcaresforme #ilovesyouporgy #littlegirlblue #jazzsinger #jazzhistory #iputaspellonyou #d...