Don Was, president of Blue Note Records

Cunard and venerable jazz label Blue Note Records have announced an exciting entertainment partnership, which will debut on Cunard’s flagship, Queen Mary 2, on October 29th, 2015.

Guests onboard will embark on a very special transatlantic crossing, featuring intimate jazz performances by the Blue Note 75th Anniversary All Star Band, Our Point of View, formed for the label’s milestone anniversary in 2014.

The supergroup celebrates the vitality of Blue Note by looking ahead and assembling leading young artists on the Blue Note roster who steadfastly continue to move jazz forward.

Featuring keyboardist Robert Glasper, trumpeter Keyon Harrold, tenor saxophonist Marcus Strickland, guitarist Lionel Loueke, bassist Derrick Hodge, and drummer Kendrick Scott, the band’s repertoire draws from each of these artists’ own remarkable catalogues as well new spins on Blue Note classics.

President of Blue Note Records, Don Was, who himself is a celebrated musician and Grammy Award winning producer for Bonnie Raitt and the Rolling Stones, will also sail on the voyage and participate in Q&A sessions.

Jazz lovers can look forward to two more special cruises in 2016, and Was will personally hand pick those artists from Blue Note Record’s renowned group of musicians.

Was commented: “Together, Cunard and Blue Note have accumulated 200 years of excellence and integrity in their respective fields.

“Combining both companies is monumental - we’re going to have a ball!”

This unique partnership celebrates the two historic, yet innovative, industry leaders.

Founded in 1939 by Alfred Lion, Blue Note Records is the most revered and longest running jazz label in the world.

Embarking on its 175th anniversary in 2015, Cunard was the first to offer regularly scheduled transatlantic service and has been carrying guests between continents with luxury, sophistication and sense of occasion ever since.

“We are thrilled to work with such an iconic record label and bring the legendary Blue Note sounds of jazz to our guests,” said Richard Meadows, president, Cunard, North America.

“We are dedicated to offering memorable entertainment experiences while maintaining the integrity of Cunard’s rich heritage, and this partnership truly personifies that commitment.”