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5 Black Music Festivals You Don't Want To Miss This Summer

Skip Coachella, these festivals are where the real party is.

Tyler Stephens

Mar 21, 2016

Spelman College

6306

5 Black Music Festivals You Don't Want To Miss This Summer

We’ve all heard of South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Lollapalooza in Chicago, and Coachella in California. But this summer, check out these black music festivals for reasonable ticket prices and great lineups.

1. Afropunk

The festival has been based in Brooklyn since 2005 and recently expanded to Paris and Atlanta. Lenny Kravitz, Grace Jones, Ms. Lauryn Hill, and Gary Clark Jr. were all headliners last year. The festival pays homage to punk and rock in the black community, providing a unique experience with a variety of musical acts, fashion, and art. Tickets aren’t on sale, but the festival is typically in August.

2. Essence

For the past 22 years, Essence has been one of the top black music festivals. With a mix of old and new school, this is one of the few festivals you and your parents will want to go to every year. Mariah Carey, Kendrick Lamar, Maxwell, Ciara, Charlie Wilson, Kehlani, and The Internet are just a few of the acts set to perform in New Orleans the July 4^thweekend.

3. ONE Music Fest

Started in 2010, ONE Music Fest has quickly become a fall favorite in Atlanta. The festival has less mainstream artists - SZA, The Roots, A$AP Rocky, and Janelle Monae were among last year’s performances. Food trucks and live art are also available

for entertainment. Check back soon for the 2016 lineup, the festival is set for September 10th.

4. OVO Fest

Drake is going to be there, need I say more? Don’t like OVO artists? Don’t worry, the lineup usually features artists outside the label. Talent can range from Kevin Hart to J. Cole - nothing is off limits with Drake as the host. The festival is a bit of a trip, usually held in Drake’s hometown Toronto, Canada.

5. Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival

The festival has been bringing 11 years of classic hip-hop acts like Ice Cube and Common to the main stage, along with new artists ranging from J. Cole to Bobby Shmurda. With a block party, panel discussions, and an award show the festival brings families together over a love for hip hop.

While most music festivals feature an all-white lineup, these festivals work to cultivate black creativity and showcase underground talent. With a mix of old and new school music, you’ll be guaranteed to discover new acts and relish seeing your favorite artists live. So start saving up some money and grab your friends for a black Woodstock experience!

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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