TBR – Richmond, VA – For many, Stone Soul Music & Food Festival has become the kick off event for Summer. Running now for nine years this event only continues to get better.
This year the event moved from their traditional spot of Brown’s Island in the heart of the city of Richmond to the Richmond International Raceway Complex in Henrico County. On the day of the event, announcers were echoing across the airways that the event had become officially SOLD OUT! Surely music to the stations ears, however it only made sense with the Heavy Hitter Gospel line up of talent along with a few Hip-Hop, R & B bands, numerous Food Vendors and Non-Food Vendors.
With a hand full of local acts opening the event, Sheilah Belle, The Belle was then introduced, who quiet the thousands of concert goers for a moment of prayer. “What a blessed opportunity to be able to lead thousands in prayer,” said Belle.
Following, it was church, under the Amphitheater that sat under a perfect blue sky and radiant sunshine as the national talent was introduced. Wess Morgan, who traveled from Nashville, TN came out first, with Richmond local group Resound, singing background.
Tamela Mann was escorted out on to the stage to perform next, with just about everyone in the audience, standing on their feet and applauding as she made her way. She performed about three songs, including her hit, now signature song, “Take Me to the King.” One woman said, ‘I paid my money just to hear Tamela sing that one song. After that I was good!”
James Fortune then made his way to the stage and reminded everyone to check him out on his new radio show, now airing on Radio One in the evening from 7:00p.m. to 11p.m., following, “Hanging out with The Belle” on Praise 104.7 from 2p.m. to 11p.m.EST.
It was truly a site to see so many standing with their hands lifted praising God during this outdoor event!
When The Belle returned she transitioned out from the Gospel segment of the Festival and introduced, I Power radio announcer Cousin Keith who introduced the next act. Following, the music turned to R & B and Hip-Hop with Josh Vietti, Hi Five, Cameosis, French Montana, Webbie, B.O.B, Raheem DeVaughn, Yo Gotti, SWV, B.B. D. and Future.
Closing out the Festival was Fantasia who did not disappoint, from taking off her shoes before finishing the first song, something she is known for doing, to singing many of her Billboard Chart top songs. Truly a fan favorite, as the crowd eventually made its way to the front of the stage to get a closer glimpse and as Fantasia made her way out to the people as she said, “I like to be close to my people.”
Co-hosting the event was Mitch Malone, Miss Community, Paris, A Plus, King Tutt, TT Torrez, Cam Cooper, Cousin Keith and The Belle!
Thank you Richmond Radio One for keeping the music coming!
