After a more than a five-year hiatus, the music festival that everyone thought had flown the coop for good, Grand Rapids’ Soul of the City, rises up like a Phoenix from the ashes, reborn as a fresh, community-enriching extravaganza over Labor Day weekend in the heart of downtown.
As the area’s only African American Festival co-sponsored by the City of Grand Rapids, it left a vacuum for many in our community when it departed.
Thankfully, Wendell Smith, Soul of the City’s organizer, recognized as he was battling personal health issues that if this festival were to be revived for future generations, it would take a dedicated leader and strong team that reflected his passion. He selected local event planner Monica Sparks last year, and the festival has become a reality because of her ability to bring so many diverse groups together to make this happen.
“I am taking this opportunity to connect cultures and people as we create an understanding, thus the name of our event, Soul of the City,” says Sparks. “We could have changed our name, but why? While we all may not have rhythm, we all have soul! And sometimes all it takes…is a spark!"
With more than 28 musical acts set to grace Rosa Parks Circle's open air stage over the festival’s three days, one can expect great music variety including R&B, blues, neo-soul, hip hop and dance.
The national acts headlining include Midnight Star, Lakeside, One Way featuring Al Hudson, Next, VIC Wobble and Men At Large. And true to our state’s roots, one can also enjoy local acts rounding out the bill.
If battling for a view from the free general admission section is not your bag, then plop down $10 to gain access to the VIP section where the best viewing can be procured.
The fee, as well as the proceeds raised at this event, helps fund their charity partner, the Buster Mathis Foundation for the Bully Buster Prevention Program that works with children (grades K-5) in teaching them how to respect one another.
This anti-bullying program works on the heart and minds of these young children to instruct them in the perils of bullying and violence.
Buster Mathis, Sr., who fought with Ali and Frasier for the World Heavyweight title, taught his son, Buster Mathis, Jr., who contended with Mike Tyson and Riddick Bowe, to protect himself using a unique technique that has anti-bullying qualities.
This non-violent code, referred to by trainers as the 4-1-3 Peek-a-Boo, is a great way to help small children remember how to signal for help when they are in a bully’s presence.
And the best part of Soul of the City’s return is that it is happening right at Rosa Parks circle - a park where people of all backgrounds are welcome to freely gather as we can be reminded that with art’s assistance, the power of the human spirit to peacefully assemble provides an opportunity to overcome adversity as we build a better community where all are made to feel welcome.
Admission: Free
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