In 2014, Grammy- and Oscar-winning hip-hop artis and actor Common created a music festival for Chicago called AAHH! Fest. The festival was created as a response to the rising amount of violence that continues to be a talking point for the city. AAHH! Fest does not focus on the struggles; it focuses on what is great about the city and the talent that is found in the various neighborhoods across the city.
The first year of the festival proved to be legendary. The line up consisted of the hometown greats. Jennifer Hudson, Lupe Fiasco, Twista, Crucial Conflict and Kanye West lit up the Chicago sky from Union Park on the west side of the city. Dave Chapelle, De La Soul and Jay Electronica also made their way to the festival, sharing in the love that was buzzing throughout the night.
Surprisingly, AAHH fest did not return in 2015, much to the city’s dismay. However, 2016 has proven to be different and AAHH! Fest will be back at Union Park Sept. 24–25. This two-day festival is community driven. The first day is Community Day, and is open to all ages. The featured artist for the day will be Tink (recognized as one of the top 5 artists to check for in 2016 by rolling out) and Taylor Bennett. This day is for the youth and will provide an opportunity for some local talent to audition for the main stage on the final night of the festival.
The Internet, Jeremih and Sir the Baptist are slated to perform on the final night of the festival. If Common stays true to form, there will be some surprises throughout the evening. AAHH! Fest is back and Chicago is pleased. We expect this to be an amazing weekend.
Take a look at a few pics from the festival in 2014.
