UNION, N.J. — On Saturday, September 21, music lovers from around the region gathered at Kean University’s East Campus for the annual Jazz and Roots Music Festival. The festival is a free outdoor celebration that brings the community together for a day of lively music, food, and music. Festival.
At Hillside’s Enlow Hall, festival-goers enjoyed jazz, blues and reggae under the bright sun of The Lawn.The event marks the 2021 anniversary of Keene’s role as Northern New Jersey’s central institution and cultural hub. It has been hosted since 2015.
“Today is an example of Kean University standing strong and making sure our community knows we appreciate it,” said Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet. “We are rooted in the community. We come together for great cultural events and hold this free concert each year so everyone can see our beautiful campus and learn more about Keene.” ”
The festival featured an outstanding lineup of musical talent. The event was headlined by Grammy-nominated reggae band Third World. Performers included jazz musicians Stephon Harris and Blackout. Solomon Hicks is a guitar genius born in Harlem. And DJ Prince Hakim’s energetic beats kept the crowd dancing all day long.
“The festival is gaining more and more attention,” said Mike Griott, the festival’s producer and renowned bassist who has helped guide the event since its inception. “Who knows how big this will get? Every act is amazing and headliners Third World are one of the most iconic groups in reggae. We are thrilled to be able to bring this amazing event to our viewers. I am very happy.”
In addition to the music, attendees had fun picnicking on the lawn and browsing the food trucks and food stalls. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as families, Keene students, and community members celebrated their shared love of music.
Tracy Burwell, a sophomore computer science major at Kean University from Union, was participating for the first time.
“This is an amazing event. I’m amazed by it,” she said. “The music is great and the atmosphere is very calm and relaxing, but also very energetic. The tables and unique clothing for sale are all great too.”
This was Union’s Ron Summers participating in this event for the second time. This year, he and his family packed up a tent, food, and spent the day enjoying music.
“There aren’t many fall events like this where you can hang out from afternoon to evening, listen to really good jazz music, and be with people who just want to have a good time. That’s why we’re back. ” he said.
Marlene Richardson of Hillside and a dozen friends searched for the perfect location for the event. They secured a front-row center spot more than two hours before the concert began.
“Everything is great,” she said. “It’s a great outing and it’s free!” It’s definitely a good time. ”
Each performer at the festival displayed a unique talent. Reggae legends Third World delivered a powerful set that had the audience rocking to their signature island rhythms, while rising blues star Hicks mesmerized listeners with his soulful guitar work. did.
“Anytime you’re close to nature, you feel more grounded and closer to a higher power. It was a great day,” Hicks said. “The sun was shining, the audience was enjoying the music, and I felt at peace. It ended too soon.”
Keene Stage Manager Steve Cochran said the Jazz and Roots Music Festival showcases the power of live music.
“This festival is all about bringing people together through live music, and each year we see how much our audiences enjoy the energy and talent that our artists bring to the stage,” he said. “It’s great to see the community come out, relax and take part in the performances, and we look forward to making each year even more memorable.”
Sponsors of the event included Prudential, Vermera Union, PSEG, First Bank, Union County and WBGO.
Photo courtesy of Kean University.
