Cincinnati’s newest attraction: The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame

Explore Cincinnati’s Profound Legacy on American Music at the Black Music Walk of Fame

The Cincy and Southwest Ohio region has a rich musical history. With many prolific artists calling this area home, Cincinnati’s influence on modern soul, jazz, funk, and many other genres is truly undeniable.

To honor that legacy, the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame is an interactive attraction that opened in July of 2023. Utilizing AI technology to create an immersive experience, visitors can sing along with some of Cincinnati’s music icons while haptic panels let you actually feel the music through vibrations.

Note: The Walk of Fame is free and open to the public seven days a week, from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., with an award-winning light show presented nightly at 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. The annual Induction Ceremony and community celebration take place on the Saturday afternoon of the Cincinnati Music Festival.

Dance with Penny Ford, play drums for Bootsy Collins and build a beat with Hi-Tek! The attraction is full of interactive exhibits that allow you to jump into the music, record your performance, and download the video afterward to share with others. 

Fun fact: The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame is the only outdoor augmented reality attraction in the nation!

Who are the Inductees?

The Walk of Fame is lined with literal stars, commemorating different local legends and music pioneers. Every year a new “class” of artists is unveiled and added to the walk, following a special inductee ceremony (also free to the public!) at the Andrew J. Brady Music Center. Inductees are nominated by community members and selected by a special panel of judges. This exciting induction ceremony and celebration takes place during the electric Cincinnati Music Festival weekend, one of the most vibrant and exciting times to experience the Cincy Region's unique culture. 

The current stars featured on the walk include some absolute legends, from funky Bootsy Collins to producer and hip-hop wordsmith Hi-Tek.

The founding class of Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame:

• Bootsy Collins
• Otis Williams
• Dr. Charles Fold
• Isley Brothers

2022 Inductees:

• Midnight Star
• Penny Ford
• Hi-Tek
• Wilbert Longmire

2023 Inductees:

• James Brown
• Philippe Wynne
• Louise Shropshire
• The Deele

2024 Inductees:

• Roger Troutman & Zapp
• Donald Lawrence
• Shirley Murdock
• Randy Crawford

2025 Inductees:

• The O'Jays
• Nancy Wilson
• Dottie Peoples
• The Ohio Players

The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame has been recognized as one of the top Black music monuments and museums in the U.S., alongside Prince’s Paisley Park and the Motown Museum in Detroit. It has also been featured in publications such as Essence, Vibe, Billboard, and more.

King Records

Founded in 1943 by Syd Nathan, this record label is most well known for launching the career of James Brown. Once located in the Evanston neighborhood, many of Cincinnati’s best-known artists were associated with this label at some point. Walking through the Black Music Walk of Fame, you’ll see nods to this legendary name–as it forever changed Cincinnati’s musical reach and influence.

Things to do around the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame

The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame is located in The Banks region of downtown Cincinnati. Located between Paycor Stadium and Great American Ball Park, and overlooking the Ohio River, this entertainment district is a popular destination with many world-class attractions, restaurants, bars, and breweries. Plan the perfect trip to The Banks using our Insider's Guide.

The Andrew J Brady Music Center

Since its opening, the Andrew J Brady Music Center has hosted big-name acts like H.E.R., Ari Lennox, Paramore, and the Pixies. Enjoy outdoor shows overlooking the Ohio River on a sprawling lawn, or relax in a tiered, seated amphitheater indoors.

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

This one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art museum is more than just a place to view exhibits. Located just steps from the Ohio River, which historically separated slavery from free states, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center celebrates inclusivity and what freedom means throughout history and across the globe. Be sure to check their website for their current programming. 

Smale Riverfront Park in The Banks

This beautiful green space overlooks the Ohio River, offering panoramic views of Covington and the Roebling Bridge. With playgrounds, bike and walking trails, splash fountains, pools, and welcoming lawn space–this iconic park is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors in the heart of Cincinnati.