Pitchfork Music Festival’s final day was a master class in soul and hip-hop

DJ Grandmaster Flash and Brittany Howard create magical moments in Chicago’s Union Park
Grandmaster Flash at Pitchfork Music Festival 2024 in Chicago (Photo credit: Eddy “Precise” Lamarre)

On July 21 — the final day of the Pitchfork Music Festival — Chicago’s Union Park was electrified by the presence of hip-hop royalty and soulful melodies. DJ Grandmaster Flash, hailed as the Godfather of Hip-Hop DJs, showcased his legendary turntable skills, while Grammy-winning singer and musician Brittany Howard captivated the audience with her powerful down-home soul performance.

Flash — credited with perfecting the scratch technique and innovating modern-day rap DJing — took the audience through several decades during his Pitchfork set. The crowd, made up of people of all ages and backgrounds was thrilled to see the hip-hop artist included in the lineup and turned out to show their support and cheer for him. Flash has been spinning records since he was 15 years old. Has been a part of the rap and music scene for more than five decades. At 67 years old, he hasn’t lost his touch. He still gets the crowd pumped up, inspiring them to hit the dance floor and move to the music.


Renowned for his immense talent, he has made it a mission to ensure his identity and contributions to hip-hop culture are widely recognized. This New York native frequently tours globally, demonstrating his skills and educating audiences on the rich history of the beloved genre.

Howard stands as a paragon of soul music, her voice resonating with rich tones and a powerful delivery that showcases her impressive vocal range. It feels as though she reaches into the depths of her soul, sharing her innermost self with the audience in every performance. Her Pitchfork set was impeccable: the choice of songs, the set list, the band — everything was amazing. It was the proper way to conclude the festival. She shared with Pitchfork that she planned to put her all into it — and she truly delivered on that promise. Transitioning from being the frontwoman of The Alabama Shakes to a solo artist, this Athens, Alabama native has captured the hearts of fans globally.

The final day of the Pitchfork Music Festival delivered a diverse array of genres and artists, creating a memorable experience for all attendees. Featuring a blend of indie rock and various musical styles, there was something to cater to every taste. This year’s festival was a resounding success, leaving attendees thrilled and cherishing the moments.


Check out some snapshots from the festival in the gallery below.

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