The Bessie Smith Cultural Center announces the return of the Bessie Smith’s Big 9 Music Fest, taking place on Saturday, April 13, and Sunday, April 14. The festival will be held along the 200 block of East MLK Boulevard.
On Saturday, April 13, from 3-11 p.m., attendees will be treated to a showcase of live local talent on the BlueCross BlueShield of TN Community Foundation Stage, located at the heart of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. Performances by Karen Collins featuring Dexter Bell & Friends, David Anthony, Luke Simmons and the Lovestruck, and Rick Rushing & the Blues Strangers. Closing out the night will be a World Music Showcase featuring Ogya World Music Band and Dancers performing Reggae, African Music & Dance, Soca, Calypso and more.
In addition to the performances, the festival will feature a variety of food trucks, beer and an array of local art and merchandise available for purchase.
Continuing the celebration on Sunday, April 14, from 1:30-6:30 p.m., the grounds of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center will transform into a haven of spiritual upliftment during Gospel on the Lawn. Local gospel groups and choirs will take the stage, spreading messages of joy and hope through their performances. Performing will be Greater Tucker Mass Choir, The Remnant Ministries, Brother James Ward, Children of God, and Marcellas Barnes and the Sounds of Unity. There will be food trucks and local art and merchandise available for purchase.
Officials said Bessie Smith’s Big 9 Music Fest is not just about music; it is a testament to Chattanooga’s rich African American history and a tribute to the individuals who have shaped it. Through these events, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center aims to honor the past while embracing the present and future contributions of the community.
Both days of the festival are free to attend and are designed to be enjoyable for the whole family. Attendees can expect "an unforgettable experience filled with soul-stirring music and cultural enrichment."
Opportunities to become a vendor for Bessie Smith’s Big 9 Music Fest are still available. For more information, please visit www.bessiesmithcc.org/festival or contact the Bessie Smith Cultural Center at 266-8658 or email info@bessiesmithcc.org.