The Westside Music Festival shined as brightly as ever. The rain could not stop the show. Upon exiting my car at Douglas Park on the West Side of Chicago, I was able to hear the celebration going on. I got closer and could feel a few drops of rain then an all out shower hit. People ran for cover immediately; however, the most telling part of this was that no one left. They stayed to enjoy the day and revel in the 5th Annual Westside Music Festival. The rain passed and the fun continued.
Alderman Michael Scott Jr. and The Westside Cultural Foundation producer of the event set the day off by serving his communities children with schools supplies, food and fun. The opening acts K Love The Poet, Tamish, Krystal Metcalfe and Mark Hood represented the city properly and warmed the stage for the major acts.
Kelly Price was the first for the night and she reminded all why she is one of the best voices and song writers in the business. At one point she brought a fan on stage to reenact Ron Isley’s part as Mr Biggs on “Friend Of Mine.” It was an amazing moment and the audience joined in.
The nostalgia train kept moving as Slick Rick the Ruler hit the stage in a bright orange shirt covered in platinum jewels as only he could do. He ran through his hits and when he did “Children’s Story,” everyone sang along. It’s hard to believe he is 51-years-old.
MC Lyte came out to a roaring audience and showed why she has been in this business for over thirty years. Her command of the stage is effortless and her songs hit harder than ever. She is truly a consummate professional who loves her fans and doesn’t take anything for granted.
When the rain fell earlier in the day and the people were huddled under the tents, it reflected the true spirit of what the festival is. The Westside Music Festival is a community coming out to share a good time and good vibes, and that’s what happened. Can’t wait for next year.
Take a look at a few pics below.
