Midwest Music Fest

If you are a true R&B music fan and you missed the new annual event, Midwest Music Fest in Louisville—you missed out on the event of the year. The two-day event took place in the KFC Yum Center on June 6-7^th and featured national and local recording artists. I had the opportunity to check out the last day of the festival and my ears were blessed with pleasure of listening to great music. As a true R&B fan, I was excited to see national recording artists Avant, KeKe Wyatt, Anthony Hamilton, Babyface and Toni Braxton. The opening act of the show was Indianapolis’ Zay Foggs, who is making headlines in the music industry. There was also a set performed by new national recording artist, Mali Music who performed his hit single, “Beautiful.” With high anticipation, music sensation Avant started the show by performing some of his hits including, “Wanna Be Close,” “Makin’ Good Love,” and “Separated.” He also performed hits with R&B singer and Indianapolis native KeKe Wyatt including “My First Love,” and their new single “You & I.” Avant also paid homage to great legends in the music industry that have passed away by reprising some of their songs including Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross and Teddy Pendergrass. Anthony Hamilton graced the stage shortly after Avant, dressed in all white and was ready to keep the crowd on their feet. Hamilton took the audience back to when he first came into the music industry by performing one of my favorite songs, “Cool.” For the audience members who wanted to go back to the toe stomping, church days—Hamilton took us there, reprising an old time Gospel song, “Jesus Can Work It Out.”  He also performed another classic, “The Point of All.” National recording artist and Indianapolis native Babyface also graced the stage during Midwest Music Fest. I personally had the opportunity to meet Babyface prior to the show and he assured that fans would enjoy his set as he would be performing all of his classic hits. Toni Braxton ended the night by performing some of her classic hits as well as new songs from new album with Babyface, “Love, Marriage, Divorce.” Overall, the experience of attending Midwest Music Fest was great as it has opened up a new wave of how music is listened to. It also has paved the way by giving new artists an opportunity to showcase some of their music and perform for a live crown. If given the opportunity to attend next year, I would certainly attend especially if national recording artists are headlining the festival. Rating for overall experience: 8/10 -Samantha Pounds