Music Fest Orlando: Epic Performances, Food and Culture

An exclusive perspective of the festival-goers and more.

Pictured: Miami music artist KowKow performing along with his background dancers.

Music has always been an intricate part of the human experience. From our ancestors using the beat of drums and the songs from their lips to having to use their bodies and hands which is referred to as "ham boning", we as Black Americans have music rooted in our DNA. Fast-forward to now, we as a collective have shaped and created the standard for what music will influence the world. This year's Music Fest Orlando line up, also hosted by Rickey Smiley, is evidence of just that.

The Line up of the festival started with local talent from Orlando to Miami, which included artists such as Arkeshia, Lolita, KowKow, Pretti Emage, Levelle, The Don D'Rel, and Ashley Peck. It was quite exciting to watch and hear their performances with fresh ears and seeing each artist bring their unique flavor to the stage. By late afternoon, Lyfe Jennings, JT Money, and special performance by Dr. Scott and Dr. Contessa from Married to Medicine charmed the crowd, including their nephew showing us his smooth moves.

Things began to heat up more when the 69 Boyz came on to the stage. Known for their song "Tootsie Roll" there was an abundance of energetic dances, not only from their background dancers but also from the Florida natives Van "Thrill Da Playa" Bryant and Barry "Fast" Wright themselves. When Goodie Mob and Plies hit the stage, VIP attendees were singing along to every word. Plies at one point joined the crowd in what he referred to as "choir rehearsal" sing snippets of classic R&B tunes. Babyface and Fantasia dazzled the crowd with style. Known for his intrinsic appeal, Babyface wore a shimmering sports jacket that matched his charismatic persona as he performed not only his songs but also songs that he wrote for other great artists. As for our sister Fantasia, she brought out the leather strapped ensemble with nude mesh underlining that mesmerized us all. Ben Crump, major Civil Rights Attorney, also made an appearance with inspiring words that lead attendees to raise their fists in the air for solidarity.

“It's an amazing event, great for the city...I'm out here to see all of them...” ~ native Orlando attendee

Interviews with the Festival-goers

On this sweltering festival day, I decided to go amongst the crowd and get the real thoughts of the attendees. Without a doubt, Fantasia was who quite a few people came out to see. Although the temperature this past Saturday seemed almost unbearable, most of the attendees were prepared and brought along their beach chairs with overhead protection from the sun. Thankfully, cool breezes swept through most of the day bringing in just a little sprinkle later that evening.

One attendee mentioned that he came to support all the artists performing, especially being Florida grown, "Plies might be my top, JT Money...you know, everybody from the South." Other attendees were full of energy, coming from as far as Georgia and wanting to give shout-outs to their family back home. This festival truly brought out the community with positive vibes and elevated hearts.

Special thanks to Jade Events Marketing Group, PRPL Miami PR & Marketing, and Showtime Studios that collaborated and organized this festival.