YolanDa Brown Presents: A Bob Marley Tribute
In honor of Bob Marley’s 80th birthday in 2025, double MOBO Award-winning saxophonist YolanDa Brown has crafted an extraordinary tribute album that breathes new life into Marley’s timeless songs. Inspired by trailblazing tribute releases from artists like Monty Alexander and Charlie Hunter, YolanDa fuses jazz, reggae, and soul to reimagine classics such as “Is This Love,” “No Woman, No Cry,” “Redemption Song,” “Three Little Birds,” and “Exodus.” Through her soulful saxophone and signature sound, YolanDa adds fresh energy to Marley’s legacy, while paying homage to the universal themes of love, peace, and unity that defined his music.
Following the album’s release, YolanDa will embark on a tour that takes audiences on a vibrant journey through Marley’s legendary repertoire, shining a spotlight on his remarkable artistry and enduring cultural impact. Her heartfelt renditions bridge the worlds of reggae and jazz, showcasing YolanDa’s virtuosic skill and a passion for musical exploration.
About YolanDa Brown
For some, worldwide tours and critically acclaimed albums would be satisfaction enough—but not for YolanDa Brown. A true polymath, YolanDa wears many hats as a musician, broadcaster, author, and philanthropist, all driven by her boundless energy and passion.
Double MOBO Award-Winning Saxophonist: YolanDa’s music is a delicious fusion of reggae, jazz, and soul. She has toured alongside The Temptations, Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, and Billy Ocean, and has collaborated with luminaries such as Dave Stewart (Eurythmics), Bill Laurance (Snarky Puppy), Kelly Jones (Stereophonics), and Rick Astley.
Composition & Media: Currently composing for the iconic Sesame Street spin-off Bea’s Block on Sky Kids and for Netflix’s CoComelon Lane, YolanDa’s creative output extends across multiple entertainment platforms.
Accolades & Leadership: YolanDa was awarded an OBE in 2023 for services to music, music education, and broadcasting. She serves as Chair of the BPI (organizers of The BRIT Awards and The Mercury Prize) and was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London. In 2024, she became Chancellor of the University of Kent and joined the UK government’s Arts and Media Honours Committee.
Advocacy & Education: A champion of music education, YolanDa chaired the Youth Music charity for six years and is a trustee of PRS Foundation. She serves on the Arts Council National Council, is an ambassador for The Prince’s Trust and the London Music Fund, and sits on the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s advisory board. Her efforts in education include rolling out bespoke online music lesson plans for primary schools and launching the “Drake YolanDa Award” to support emerging musicians.
Broadcasting Highlights: YolanDa hosts shows on Jazz FM, Scala Radio, BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends, and appears regularly on BBC Radio 2 and Magic FM. On television, she presented YolanDa’s Band Jam for CBeebies, Gospel Choir of the Year for BBC One, and BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year. She also hosts the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s Offstage podcast.
Other Ventures: Beyond music, YolanDa is an entrepreneur and founder of the London Saxophone Festival, and is set to open her own music venue and restaurant, Soul Mama, in Spring 2024—the largest crowdfunded restaurant project on Kickstarter, earning a Guinness World Records certificate.
Whether she’s reinventing Bob Marley’s classics, exploring new frontiers in composition, or championing young musicians, YolanDa Brown’s work is marked by innovation, heart, and a fearless commitment to the transformative power of music. Come celebrate the timeless spirit of Bob Marley through YolanDa’s saxophone-led tribute—an unforgettable fusion of reggae, jazz, soul, and a legacy that transcends generations.
