The Bessie Smith Cultural Center announces the return of the Bessie Smith Big 9 Music Fest—a weekend of free, family-friendly entertainment taking place June 21–22 in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. Presented by TVFCU, this two-day celebration will showcase live music, local vendors, and cultural experiences in honor of Black Music Month.
Set on the historic 9th Street—now MLK Boulevard—the festival pays tribute to the cultural heartbeat of Chattanooga’s Black community and the legendary artists who once graced its stages.
Review for the performers:
Back by popular demand: Da Kang of Trailride Blues, Jeter Jones. Joining him on Saturday, June 21, are powerhouse Southern Soul artists Tasha Mac, Deshay, D. Riggs, Buddy Lee, Volton Wright and JA LI, delivering a full day of performances on the main stage.
On Sunday, June 22, the festival shifts to Gospel on the Lawn with performances from Greater Tucker Baptist Church Mass Choir, Karen Collins and Elder Carolyn Hammonds, Hawkinsville Baptist Church Choir, and The Chattanooga Spiritual Highlights. Headlining Sunday’s festivities is Evangelist Lemmie Battles, Chicago’s own gospel songbird—so come ready to get your praise on.
The Big 9 Music Fest is free and open to the public, offering two full days of live performances, local food and retail vendors, and a joyful, inclusive atmosphere for all. For more information, visit www.bessiesmithcc.org/festival.