30 Mar On The Scene: Music Fest Orlando Fantasia, Babyface, Rickey Smiley, and more sizzle the stage
Music, Culture & Good Vibes Were Celebrated at Music Fest Orlando March 25, 2023 at Central Florida Fairgrounds.
Over 8,000 patrons flocked to Orlando on Saturday, March 25, for the inaugural Music Fest Orlando held at the Central Florida Fairgrounds. The good vibes and ambiance were felt from the gates to the vendors and the stage. Setting the tone for the festival was the opening artist’s segment that included: Arkeshia, Ashley Peck, Lolita, Pretti Emage and The Don D’rel. The vibes continued with legendary DJ’s, Demp, Nasty 305 and BoWeezy , who kept the crowd on their feet and the energy flowing. The outdoor festival continued with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, with a riveting and soul-stirring performance by headliner Fantasia and an R&B nostalgic performance by Babyface. We took a trip down South with the sounds of Goodie Mob, Plies, the 69 Boyz and JT Money. In addition, fans enjoyed a soulful set with Lyfe Jennings and Levelle, and the festival also included some afro-beats tunes with artist KowKow. Special appearances included Havier Daivon, Married to Medicine costars Dr. Scott and Contessa Metcalfe, and Tyesha Williams. Also, the one-day outdoor live music festival was hosted by acclaimed comedian, actor, and national radio personality, Rickey Smiley, who kept the crowd entertained all night.
Music Fest Orlando has proved to be the ultimate music and cultural experience in the heart of Orlando, gathering fans from the southern region, including Miami, Jacksonville, Atlanta and even the city of Orlando. Tanya Baskerville, a resident of Orlando and an avid festival goer, stated, “I had an amazing time! It was a beautiful experience to see everyone come together to support our own! From the artists to all the beautiful black businesses. Felt like a family reunion. Nothing but positive vibes. I loved it and can’t wait until next year! I will be back!”
Music Fest Orlando is a celebration of Black music and culture and a party with a purpose. A portion of the ticket proceeds over the weekend will benefit students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities through the HBCU Initiative. This initiative seeks to provide students in the Central Florida area with financial assistance to further their post-high school education. Also, Music Fest Orlando Founder Ernest Wilson donated $2,000 to Pink Possible, a non-profit organization focused on breast cancer survivors. “Giving back to assist kids furthering their education and contributing to assist Brest Cancer survivors is a passion of mine,” states Founder Ernest Wilson Music Fest Orlando.
In addition to the live performances, the 2023 Music Fest Orlando featured delectable bites and a myriad of retail buys featuring a diverse assortment of small and minority-owned businesses, including Clique Wines. Music Fest Orlando is the adult spring break experience of the south at the intersection of music, art, and culture.
Also, during the weekend, attendees enjoyed a pre-social party hosted by artist CeeLo Green the night before the festival, March 24, 2023, at Dove Cote in the heart of downtown Orlando. For more information on next year’s festival, visit www.musicfestorlando.com.
Photo Credits: Adria Boultin, Charakter Magazine, Simon Pierre