The Cincinnati Music Festival continues to shine as one of the world’s longest running celebrations of Black music, history, and culture. This year, RANGE Magazine captured that story beautifully.
Writer Ozioma Nwabuikwu visited the Cincy Region to experience the festival and explore how music, freedom, and community have shaped Cincinnati’s legacy. Her journey took her through the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and two unforgettable nights at Paycor Stadium filled with funk, soul, and timeless hits.
A Journey Through History
Ozioma highlighted how Cincinnati’s history as a sanctuary for freedom seekers helped inspire generations of Black artists. The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame, created by Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece, honors that legacy by celebrating artists such as Bootsy Collins, The Isley Brothers, and The Ohio Players, all with deep Ohio roots.
The Soundtrack of the Summer
From Earth, Wind & Fire and LL Cool J to Toni Braxton and Jazmine Sullivan, this year’s lineup brought together legends and rising stars for a weekend of unforgettable performances. Even a brief weather delay could not cool the crowd’s energy or the spirit of celebration filling the riverfront.
Where Freedom Meets Funk
Ozioma’s story captures Cincinnati’s unique rhythm, where the power of music and community come together. As she wrote, Cincinnati “offers a reminder that freedom, rhythm, and community are all intertwined.”
Read the full story on RANGE Magazine: The Sounds of Cincinnati: A Voyage Through Black Music History
The 2026 Cincinnati Music Festival returns July 23 to 25, 2026. Plan your trip now at VisitCincy.com
