Jazz Middelheim is gearing up for its highly anticipated return in 2025 with the exciting addition of a third stage. In keeping with its rich tradition, the iconic jazz festival will continue to feature two main stages—one seated and one standing—showcasing a diverse lineup of international and local visionaries who honour jazz's legacy while pushing the genre's boundaries in innovative ways. With the introduction of this new DJ stage, the festival's philosophy is taken to the next level. 

The Jasm Stage will be a dynamic space where listening and dancing seamlessly blend, offering a platform for old and new genres to collide. Featuring top selectors from around the world alongside some of Antwerp's most exciting talents, this stage promises a vibrant atmosphere perfect for both daytime listening and evening dancing. The full lineup of the Jasm Stage features an impressive roster of artists who represent the new generation of global music tastemakers. Expect an eclectic blend of soul, funk, disco, house, and more.

Key headliners include Darryn Jones & Ge-ology, an American duo that will bring an immersive B2B experience, fusing deep grooves and rare vinyl gems, DJ Koco, the Japanese turntable virtuoso known for his jaw-dropping scratching sets, and Donna Leake, celebrated for her genre-blurring, emotionally charged DJ journeys. Then, there's Habibi Funk, who will take listeners on a trip through North African and Middle Eastern grooves, while Belgian icon Lefto Early Bird will bring some of his most cherished pieces of vinyl from his extensive record collection. Alongside these big names, rising stars like Coco María, known for her tropical, Latin-infused vinyl selection, Yazmin Lacey, whose soulful sets reflect the UK jazz and soul scene, and Julion De'Angelo & Senga. Other standouts include Stella Zekri, Luke Una and Mafalda, all of whom will contribute to an unforgettable, genre-spanning musical experience.

On Sunday June 8, the entire stage will be hosted by My Analog Journal, the popular vinyl-only YouTube streaming channel hosted by Zag & Shaqdi making waves on the internet. On Monday June 9, Antwerp's DTM Funk will host the festivities with his Black Gravity Rhythms collective, shining a light on the Black origins of the genre.

This exciting new stage reflects Jazz Middelheim's commitment to innovation while staying true to its roots. Jazz has always been about freedom and exploration, drawing from a multitude of influences, and this stage will be no exception. Expect a seamless fusion of genres, where the influence of jazz meets the rhythms of funk, soul, electronic music, and beyond. A place to discover what's new, what used to be and what's up.