Atlanta’s music enthusiasts are unwavering in their support of Sol-Fusion productions.  The brand, a self-proclaimed communal gumbo for partygoers, delivered its best event yet with the third annual ‘ONE MusicFest’.  In past years, the festival featured a diverse blend of performers including Common, Foreign Exchange and The Pharcyde, and was successful at providing the city with a fresh experience for music lovers. This year’s festival made Masquerade Park its new location, nestled in the 4th Ward Historic Park, the first completed urban park of the Atlanta Beltline project.  The location allowed for a total experience that not only included quality performances, but a food truck village, an eclectic mix of vendors, Steamhouse Lounge’s Shrimp & Crabfest, live art, a mechanical bull and an outdoor space that was tailored to anyone. While talking with ONE MusicFest patrons who attended and enjoyed the festivals from years one and two—all agreed that the 2012 festival was the best. 

The most noticeable change was the addition of music legends. Rap pioneers, Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, MC Lyte and Big Daddy Kane, collectively touring as The Legends of Hip-Hop, headlined the festival.  There was something for everyone.

While many came to see well known R&B crooner Marsha Ambrosius, the audience came alive during the performance of Underground Hip-Hop artist Big K.R.I.T.  The Mississippi raised southern rapper doesn’t get much commercial airplay—but festival goers chanted his lyrics with him while he delivered an upbeat ode to his southern roots. He commanded the crowd’s attention with the skill of a veteran performer and left his heart on the stage.  During his set, he paid homage to OutKast, UGK and a host of southern rap pioneers.  “I never take this for granted, we are all super humble and blessed to be here.”  We asked Big K.R.I.T. about his biggest influence.  Without skipping a beat, he responded with conviction “B.B. King, no doubt”.  The handsome rapper had us at hello.

Rocker Santigold drew the most diverse fans to ONE MusicFest.  We met folks who drove from Louisiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee just to hear tunes from her current album, Master of My Make-Believe (Atlantic). She did not disappoint.  In true Santigold form, her artistry was unwavering as backup singers twirled parasols and costumed animals danced on stage to her beats.  Regardless of the scorching Atlanta heat, party-goers rocked with Santigold and as a ‘thank you’, she allowed fans to flood the stage and party with her for her last song. The mood was set.

Co-hosts Kenny Burns, Dres tha Beatnik and a trio of deejays moved the crowd in between sets. While the sun reluctantly set below the Atlanta skyline, the mood shifted to classic hip-hop.  Before taking the stage, Doug E Fresh exclaimed “This show is gonna shock you, do NOT miss this set.  One MusicFest we’re gonna show you how this thing goes in hip hop”.  As far as how this thing goes—it is clear that The Legends of Hip Hop take their artistry and legacy seriously.  Each performer gave 100% while the crowd jumped more enthusiastically with each song. Big Daddy Kane still had the ladies screaming.  MC Lyte performed with the ease of a true professional. Doug E. Fresh led the medleys and commanded the crowd with his energy while Slick Rick stayed cool under pressure. Rick the Ruler delivered his verses in the cavalier style for which he is best known.

With all of the activities for patrons to enjoy, the main attraction remains the music, an accomplishment that One MusicFest Producer Jason Carter aimed for.

“There is a lack of representation for soul, progressive hip-hop, alternative and rock, represented under one roof, in the format of music festivals in Atlanta”, states J Carter, ONE Musicfest Producer.  “We have noticed that while there are many pockets of individuals that share taste in the same music, rarely do you see them share in this together. ONE Musicfest was created with the idea of ‘music as the universal language. Over time we aim to grow this fest into a phenomenon and bring together different sectors of individuals through a unique music platform.”

Until next year…

Written By: Janean Akilah| Photos Courtesy of: The Garner Circle PR, Alumni Round Up+Verjuann Jordan