Gazebo Festival: a future staple of louisville culture
This past weekend, Never Come Home had the honor to embark on an adventure to Louisville, Kentucky, for the inaugural Gazebo Festival. Hosted by Lousiville native and rap sensation Jack Harlow, the festival promised an eclectic mix of Rap and R&B at the picturesque Waterfront Park. Although nature had its say with severe weather canceling the second day, the single day of music we experienced surpassed expectations and left an unerasable mark.
A Spectrum of Sounds
Gazebo Fest’s lineup boasted an impressive range of artists, each bringing their unique flavor to the festival. Headlined by the ethereal SZA, the roster included rising stars Karri, Karrahboo, and Jordan Ward, alongside seasoned performers like Larry June, Paris Texas, Vince Staples, Maid Jordan, Ravyn Lenae, and Rich Homie Quan. The musical vibes varied from soulful R&B Melodies to high-energy hip-hop anthems, ensuring that there was something for everyone.
SZA: As the headliner, SZA captivated the audience with her soulful voice and emotionally charged performance. Her setlist, featuring hits from “CTRL’ and her latest project “SOS”, was a perfect blend of introspection and celebration creating an intimate yet electric atmosphere.
SZA photographed by Jose Castillo
Karri, Karrahboo, and Jordan Ward: These up-and-coming artists showcased the features of rap and R&B. Karri impressed the crowd with his smooth flow and innovative beats. His performance was a fresh take on contemporary rap, blending traditional hip-hop elements with modern influences. Karrahboo, with her distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence, delivered a thrilling set that left a lasting impression. Her ability to blend rap with pop sensibilities showcased her versatility and potential as a breakout star. Her decision to share the stage with frequent collaborator and label mate Camo!, established that the “Concrete Boys” stock, is truly on the way up. Jordan Ward captivated the audience with his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. His performance was both emotionally charged and uplifting, demonstrating why he is considered one of the most promising new talents in the R&B scene.
Larry June, Paris Texas, and Vince Staples: These artists brought their unique styles to the Gazebo Fest stage, from Larry June’s smooth West Coast vibes which were both chill and engaging to Paris Texas’s genre-bending energy which translated into one of the most electrifying sets of the day and was rounded out with a Vince Staples’s sunset set full of thought-provoking lyricism and personality.
Majid Jordan: The duo’s blend of electronic, R&B, and pop created an ethereal, danceable atmosphere. Smooth vocals and hypnotic beats marked their performance, and playing their standout Drake-related songs, making it a standout of the day.
Ravyn Lenae: With her unique voice and experimental sound, Ravyn Lenae delivered a mesmerizing set. Her performance blended neo-soul with futuristic R&B, captivating the audience with her artistic vision.
Rich Homie Quan: Bringing a touch of Atlanta’s rap scene to Louisville, Rich Homie Quan’s high-energy performance was a crowd favorite. His charismatic delivery and catchy hooks had the audience bouncing and rapping along
Gazebo Fest Lineup photographed by Jose Castillo
Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity
One of the most remarkable aspects of Gazebo Fest was its celebration of diversity. The festival attracted a varied crowd, reflecting various ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds. This diversity wasn't just evident in the audience, but also in the lineup, which showcased artists from all corners of the contemporary music spectrum.
This inclusive environment created a sense of community and comfort. Attendees felt free to express themselves, connect with others, and share in the collective music experience. Many festival-goers even caught an off-stage glimpse or interaction with Jack Harlow and other performers, a rarity at most festivals, adding to the friendly and safe atmosphere. The welcoming environment was a testament to the power of diversity and creating spaces where everyone feels like they belong.
An Unexpected Turn
Despite the festival’s promising start, nature had other plans. On the second day, tornado warnings, and thunderstorms forced organizers to cancel the remainder of Gazebo Fest. While the news was disappointing, the safety of attendees, artists, and all involved was paramount. The abrupt end couldn’t overshadow the magic of the first day, filled with memorable performances and a palpable sense of unity.
Day to Remember
For those of us at Never Come Home, Gazebo Fest was a testament to the metamorphic power of music and community. Despite the unexpected weather challenges, the festival's debut was a success. The first day offered attendees a glimpse into what could become a staple event in Louisville’s cultural calendar.
As we reflect on the one amazing day we had, the diversity of the lineup and the inclusive, welcoming environment stand out as highlights. Gazebo Fest showcased some of the best and future talents in rap and R&B and created a space where everyone felt at home, even if it was just for a day.
