Summer Lovin’

Any time of the year, Black Soul Summer events shine with good vibes, hot talent, and local enterprise. 

Black Soul Summer is a collaborative movement dedicated to building a new creative ecosystem that supports independent entrepreneurs. A coalition of local African-American and Latino artists, vendors, performers, and various service providers pool resources to produce unique live experiences. Popular events include Juneteenth Fest, Hip Hop in the Park, and the All Love Block Party (since 2011!).

Last fall, they debuted a new featured series, &Friends, dedicated to the joy of community, friendship, and togetherness. This February, was their “Love Edition” — and I’m happy to say it delivered! While every event is its own unique experience, I hope my review here will inspire some readers to grab their tickets now for April’s show (see below).

Black Soul Summer’s &Friends: The Love Edition at Silk City last February was a vibrant celebration that set the stage for Love Day, attracting a dynamic crowd of couples and singles. The lineup of DJs and performers was impressive, and captivated the audience with a blend of nostalgic hits and modern anthems. Co-founder DJ Brotha Taaj warmed up the crowd with infectious rhythms, followed by Queen Yaszy B, who took me back to the early 2000’s with classics like “Hotline” by Pretty Ricky, alongside a mix of love songs and party tracks that had everyone on their feet.

DJ Woah Nelliee kept the momentum going with a series of hits, demonstrating her prowess as both an artist and a curator. The performances were a highlight, with Adonai Richardson delivering a smooth rendition of “Yo (Excuse Me Miss)” that brought us all back to simpler times. Ki Ki Rude performed her Diamond-certified single “Where I From,” showcasing her unique vocal tone and range, while OTee, the Trap Princess, charmed the crowd with her high-energy performances and unstoppable skills on the mic.

We even had an unexpectedly touching moment, when a beautiful cake came out for Gregory Wright, and the whole audience sung him Happy Birthday. It was a definite high point of community love and togetherness. Black Soul Summer did it again! “&Friends: The Love Edition” was more than just a party; it was a testament to the power of music to unite and entertain. Can’t wait for the next show.

Kennedie Scurry is a Philly writer and vlogger covering music, events, issues and more with love, kindness and community. #PraiseGodandStayHumble 💯 @thekenloshow

🎶☀️ UPCOMING BLACK SOUL SUMMER SHOWS 🌟🛍️

SAT MARCH 16: Almost Famous Women’s Market (2pm – 8pm): A vibrant array of art and fashion crafted by some of Philly’s top women-owned brands at MQ Factory in Manayunk. Much more than just a market, this event features an incredible live soundtrack with the incomparable beats of DJ Black MDNA and DJ Oh Lei, who bring a mix of sounds, new and old, to lift your spirits and channel positive energy and goddess power. Come support and celebrate the strength and creativity of women entrepreneurs! Tix $10

FRI MARCH 22: The Block Gives Back Gala (8pm – 11:30pm): It’s every do-gooders favorite fundraiser! The Block Gives Back is a collaborative of volunteers, businesses, organizations and community leaders promoting neighborhood engagement across the city, supporting clean streets, safe parks, and impactful local programs. Dress to impress and come out for an exciting night of FUNdraising with music, raffles, open bar, door prizes, photo booth and much more. Let’s make a difference together! Tix $60 – $70

FRI MARCH 22: Suite Serenity (Session 8) (7pm – 11:00pm): Tranquil R&B serenade for weary hearts and minds. Our 8th installment of this sonorous underground sanctuary far from the chaos of life, where a soul can find sustaining rhythm and respite. Tix $10 #EnterTheSuite

SUN MARCH 25: Souletri Sunday “Open Mic Experience” (1pm – 4pm):  Calling all artists! Poetry, song, dance, comedy – whatever your talent, whatever skill level, we’re ready to bask in the glow of your creative energy! Come share your art and energy with a diverse and supportive crowd at Meyers Brewing Co in Fishtown. Hosted by RyAnn V Bryant, music by Dj Ricochet. Sign-up starts at 1:00 pm, show begins at 1:30pm  All artists have 5 minutes on stage. FREE

THU MARCH 28: BLOOM (8pm – 12am):  Fashion meets nightlife in a spectacular world of glamour and excitement. Wear your best botanical prints and 3-D florals, and come dance and drink the night away for an epic Easter weekend. With DJ OBoyy, bringing Philly’s red-hot party scene to dynamic backdrop of Wilmington, DE.  Tix $68 – $80

🐣🐣🐣Early Bird Special: &FRIENDS IN APRIL 

SAT APRIL 20: &FRIENDS Birthday  (10pm – 3:30am): A vibrant mix of stand-out brands, businesses, and performers celebrate at The Winston‘s new Ruby Room, a haven for unique, late-night vibes that keep the party going till dawn. Early bird tix just $10! 

All welcome! Follow @BlackSoulSummer on FB, IG, X, and .com.