Fred Wesley and the New JBs

Fred Wesley & The New JBs Live at TivoliVredenburg, Utrecht – Saturday, 29 November 2025

Get ready to experience a titan of funk and soul as Fred Wesley and The New JBs descend upon Utrecht for a night of electrifying music at the renowned TivoliVredenburg on Saturday, 29 November 2025. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a journey through the very foundations of funk, a chance to witness musical history in the making. Prepare yourselves for an unforgettable evening where the legendary horn arrangements, infectious grooves, and masterful musicianship of Fred Wesley and his powerhouse band will undoubtedly ignite the dance floor and leave you breathless. This is a rare opportunity to catch one of the genre’s most influential acts in an intimate setting, promising an authentic and exhilarating funk experience that transcends generations.

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About Fred Wesley & The New JBs

Fred Wesley is a name synonymous with funk. For over five decades, this American trombonist, composer, and bandleader has been a pivotal figure in shaping the sound of popular music. His career began in the early 1960s, but it was his groundbreaking work with James Brown in the 1970s that cemented his legendary status. As musical director and trombonist for Brown’s band, Wesley was instrumental in crafting the raw, percussive, and horn-driven sound that defined funk. He co-wrote and arranged many of Brown’s most iconic hits, including “Blow Your Fuse,” “Pass the Peas,” and the anthemic “Get Up, Get Into It, Get Involved.”

Following his tenure with James Brown, Wesley formed his own band, The Horny Horns, which eventually evolved into The J.B.’s, featuring many of the same musicians. This iteration of the band continued to produce seminal funk tracks and was crucial in popularising the genre. The New JBs, as they are known today, represent the continuation of this incredible legacy. With Fred Wesley at the helm, the band continues to perform the classic hits that defined an era, alongside new material that demonstrates their enduring vitality and musical prowess. Their performances are a masterclass in improvisational brilliance, tight ensemble playing, and sheer, unadulterated funk energy. Notable hits that have reverberated through the decades and will undoubtedly feature in their Utrecht performance include the infectiously grooving “Funky Goodtime,” the essential horn-driven anthem “Blow Your Fuse,” and the universally recognised “Pass the Peas.” The band’s influence is immeasurable, having inspired countless musicians across genres, from hip-hop sampling to contemporary R&B. A performance by Fred Wesley & The New JBs is not just a concert; it’s an education in the art of funk, delivered by the true masters themselves.

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Venue Information

TivoliVredenburg is Utrecht’s vibrant and dynamic music complex, a true hub for live music enthusiasts. Located centrally in the city, it boasts multiple unique venues, each with its own distinct atmosphere and acoustic properties, catering to a diverse range of musical genres. From intimate club settings to larger concert halls, TivoliVredenburg is renowned for its excellent sound quality, cutting-edge technical facilities, and commitment to providing an exceptional experience for both artists and audiences. The complex is easily accessible and designed to be a welcoming space for all music lovers. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

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What to Expect

Prepare for a visceral, high-energy funk explosion when Fred Wesley and The New JBs take to the stage at TivoliVredenburg. This is a band that understands the power of the groove and the importance of delivering an authentic, no-holds-barred performance. The setlist will undoubtedly be a treasure trove for funk aficionados, weaving together a selection of their most iconic and beloved tracks. Expect to be transported back to the golden era of funk with electrifying renditions of anthems like “Blow Your Fuse,” the irresistible swagger of “Pass the Peas,” and the pure, unadulterated joy of “Funky Goodtime.”

But this isn’t merely a nostalgic journey; Fred Wesley and The New JBs are a living, breathing entity, constantly injecting fresh energy and improvisational flair into their performances. The horn section, a cornerstone of their sound, will be razor-sharp, delivering intricate and powerful arrangements that are both technically brilliant and deeply soulful. Fred Wesley himself, a master of his instrument, will command the stage with his presence and infectious enthusiasm, guiding the band through a set that is as much about musical exploration as it is about delivering the hits.

The performance style is deeply rooted in the call-and-response traditions of soul and funk. Expect vibrant solos from the band’s exceptional musicians – tight guitar riffs, funky bass lines, powerful drumming, and soaring keys, all underpinned by Wesley’s masterful trombone work. The energy will be palpable, designed to get everyone on their feet and moving. This is music that demands participation, encouraging a communal celebration of rhythm and soul. While the exact duration can vary, a Fred Wesley and The New JBs show is typically a substantial affair, running for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring you get your fill of pure funk. This is a performance designed to leave you buzzing, with a smile on your face and an undeniable urge to dance.

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FAQs

Q1: Will Fred Wesley himself be performing with The New JBs at this show?

Absolutely. Fred Wesley is the heart and soul of The New JBs. He is not just the bandleader but a vital performing member, showcasing his incredible trombone skills and leading the band with his unmistakable charisma. You can expect Fred Wesley to be at the forefront of the performance, guiding the music and engaging directly with the audience.

Q2: What kind of music can I expect? Is it purely 1970s funk?

The core of The New JBs’ repertoire consists of the legendary funk anthems that Fred Wesley helped create with James Brown and his own J.B.’s. So, expect a heavy dose of classic 1970s funk, delivered with the authentic sound and energy of the era. However, the band also embraces the spirit of improvisation and musical evolution, so you might also hear new arrangements or moments of spontaneous musical exploration that keep the music fresh and exciting for contemporary audiences. It’s funk, in its purest and most enduring form.

Q3: How does The New JBs sound compare to the original J.B.’s or James Brown’s band from the 70s?

The New JBs are a direct continuation of that incredible legacy. While the individual musicians may have evolved over the years, the musical direction and the commitment to authentic funk remain unwavering. Fred Wesley’s presence ensures that the core sound – the tight horn arrangements, the driving rhythm section, and the improvisational spirit – is faithfully preserved. It’s not a tribute band; it’s the real deal, with Fred Wesley leading a group of exceptionally talented musicians who understand and embody the funk ethos.

Q4: Will they play the major hits like “Blow Your Fuse” and “Pass the Peas”?

You can absolutely count on hearing those iconic tracks and more. Fred Wesley and The New JBs know what their audience comes for. Anthems like “Blow Your Fuse,” “Pass the Peas,” and “Funky Goodtime” are staples of their live shows and are performed with the same infectious energy and musical precision that made them classics. These songs are the foundation of their set and are guaranteed to get the crowd moving.

Q5: Is this a family-friendly event?

While the music is deeply rooted in funk and soul, and the performances are high-energy, Fred Wesley and The New JBs’ music is generally enjoyed by a wide range of ages. The focus is on the musicality, the joy of the groove, and the positive energy. It’s a celebration of music that transcends generations. However, as with any live music event, parental discretion is always advised depending on your children’s age and sensitivity to loud music and energetic performances.

Q6: How long is the typical performance duration for Fred Wesley and The New JBs?

A Fred Wesley and The New JBs concert is a substantial and satisfying experience. You can typically expect their performance to last between 90 minutes and two hours. This allows ample time for them to showcase their vast catalogue of hits, include extended instrumental sections for solos and improvisation, and really engage with the audience, creating a truly immersive funk experience.