Rickie Lee Jones, the iconic singer-songwriter, is set to perform at the 2026 GroundUp Music Festival, nearly 50 years after her platinum debut album. This appearance marks another chapter in her legendary career, showcasing her enduring influence in the music industry.
In 1979, Rickie Lee Jones burst onto the music scene with her self-titled debut album, which not only went platinum but also earned her the Grammy Award for Best New Artist. The album featured the hit single “Chuck E.’s in Love,” a song that would become synonymous with her name and cement her place in music history.
Now, at 71, Jones is still performing live, much to the delight of her fans. Her upcoming performance at the 2026 GroundUp Music Festival is a testament to her enduring appeal and influence. The festival, celebrating its tenth anniversary, will take place on Saturday, March 14, at the Miami Beach Bandshell. Jones will join a diverse lineup that includes jazz fusion collective Snarky Puppy, producer Flying Lotus, and singer Patrice Rushen, known for her 1982 hit “Forget Me Nots.” Other notable performers include Julian Lage, Isaiah Sharkey, and Arooj Aftab. Tickets for the festival are on sale now, as reported by Miami New Times.
Jones’ career has been marked by her unique voice and songwriting style, which have resonated with audiences for decades. Her debut album was a critical and commercial success, and she has continued to release music that challenges and inspires. Her upcoming performance at the GroundUp Music Festival is a reminder of her lasting impact on the music industry.
According to her official website, Jones has a series of other dates scheduled in the months leading up to the festival, with performances in locations from California to Hawaii. She will also be heading to the U.K. in the spring, showcasing her global appeal and popularity.
The Story Behind “Chuck E.’s in Love”
The hit single “Chuck E.’s in Love” was inspired by a real person, Chuck E. Weiss, a friend of Tom Waits, whom Jones dated. Weiss was a colorful character who became a muse for Jones, and the song’s success catapulted him to fame. As Jones wrote in the Los Angeles Times, the success of the song “catapulted” Weiss to “fame far above his mentor’s,” and the song’s legacy continues to resonate with fans.
Jones’ songwriting has always been deeply personal and introspective, and “Chuck E.’s in Love” is no exception. The song captures a moment in time and a relationship that was both complex and inspiring. It is a testament to Jones’ ability to turn personal experiences into universal stories that resonate with audiences.
Jones’ Enduring Legacy
Rickie Lee Jones’ career spans nearly five decades, and her influence on the music industry is undeniable. From her platinum debut to her upcoming performance at the GroundUp Music Festival, Jones has consistently pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a singer-songwriter. Her unique voice and songwriting style have inspired countless artists and continue to captivate audiences around the world.
As she prepares to take the stage at the GroundUp Music Festival, fans can expect a performance that is both nostalgic and forward-looking. Jones’ ability to connect with her audience and create music that is both personal and universal is what sets her apart and ensures her place as a legend in the music industry.
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