LOS ANGELES — When you’re a top jazz artist like Carmen Lundy, you get to play at all the best venues around the world.

But with more than 50 years in the business under her belt, Los Angeles' most iconic venue — the Hollywood Bowl — is a place she has yet to play a full set.

"I was on that stage once before, as a guest artist," said Lundy. "This time is different."

Since 1979, jazz’s marquee two-day event in LA has been held in the amphitheater. For decades, the show was known as the Playboy Jazz Festival, but after a two-year hiatus from the pandemic, it’s emerging as the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival.

"I guess we all really aspire to anyone in my industry, anyone that that wants to do what I do certainly looks forward to that opportunity," said Lundy.

This year’s event features a strong lineup of artists, including headliners The Roots and Gregory Porter.

Johanna Rees, vice president of presentations at the LA Phil, is in charge of booking and said Jazz Fest is a huge part of the venue’s fabric.  

"[It's] a beloved annual outing for so many, both in jazz fans and just general music fans. You don't have to know any of the artists to have a great time at the jazz festival this year. We are really focused on working with local artists from Los Angeles."

And one local group is Jungle Fire, a 10-piece Tropi-funk band. Known for their funky beats, they became popular on LA dance floors.

Bandleader Alberto Lopez said when they take the stage, they’ll be celebrating the band's 10th anniversary — and nowhere better than in front of their home crowd.

"We hope people dance," said Lopez. "We hope people have fun and talk about us and enjoy the other bands that are gonna be amazing, too."

For Jungle Fire and Lundy, it feels so good to be back performing live — and sweeter that it’s at the Hollywood Bowl. Lundy said she hopes her music touches every seat in the house.