Common Returns Home for Taste of Chicago Performance

Hip-hop artist Common is set to perform at the 2026 Taste of Chicago, one of the nation’s largest and longest-running food festivals. The Chicago native will take the stage at Grant Park on Saturday, July 11, as part of the festival’s free five-day entertainment lineup.

Returning to its traditional mid-July dates for the first time in several years, the Taste of Chicago will run from July 8-12, following the cancellation of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. Alongside its renowned culinary offerings, the festival continues its tradition of pairing world-class food with outstanding live music.

Babyface Brings R&B Royalty to Detroit’s Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre

R&B legend Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds is set to light up the Detroit waterfront this summer, with a highly anticipated concert at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre on Sunday, July 12, 2026. The show is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM.

A 12-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer, Babyface is celebrated for timeless hits and his prolific work with artists including Boyz II Men, TLC, and Madonna. He has written and produced over 125 Top-10 hits across his distinguished career.

Joining Babyface on the show is Jane Eugene, billed as “The First Lady of Loose Ends” — a nod to her celebrated tenure with the iconic British R&B group.

The concert is presented in partnership with Mix 92.3, Detroit’s R&B station. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, and the event will proceed rain or shine. Fans can visit thearetha.com for more information.

The Love Hangover Experience

Fans of classic R&B and soul are in for an unforgettable evening as The Love Hangover Experience returns on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Remington Park Festival Grounds in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Widely recognized for its nostalgic, grown-and-sexy atmosphere, the premier R&B and blues music festival will feature powerhouse performances from legendary headliners Dru Hill and Kelly Price. Joining them as special guests are 702, Calvin Richardson, Pokey Bear, and Pleasure P, while comedian and media personality Bubba Dub will serve as host for the evening.

The event begins at 5:00 p.m., with gates opening at 4:00 p.m. Festivalgoers can choose from multiple ticket options, including General Admission, VIP, and Exclusive VIP packages. Exclusive VIP guests will enjoy premium amenities such as a dedicated entrance, access to the VIP Tent, reserved seating directly in front of the stage, and all-inclusive food and beverages.

Tickets are available now TicketStorm.com.

Reggae On De Beach 2026 Brings Jamaican And Guyanese Artists Together

The 2026 staging of Reggae On De Beach is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, at Kingston Beach in Georgetown, Guyana. Jamaican reggae stars Capleton and Alaine are set to headline, alongside Guyanese performers Carlvin Burnett and Melody Thomas.

With a combination of Jamaican and Guyanese talent, Reggae On De Beach 2026 is expected to attract reggae lovers from across Guyana and the wider Caribbean for what organizers are positioning as one of the summer’s premier beachside entertainment experiences.

Yaksta Delivers His Most Personal Project Yet With “The Microphone Saved Me”

Reggae recording artist Yaksta has released his highly anticipated sophomore album, The Microphone Saved Me, a 15-track project that showcases a mix of conscious lyricism, cultural commentary, and personal reflection. The album follows a string of well-received singles including “Roar,” “The Return,” “Heal My Heart,” and “New Leaf.”

Described by Yaksta as his most personal body of work to date, The Microphone Saved Me features collaborations with Silk Boss, Dre Tegs, Kayland Arnold, Sonic Gold, Matthew Malcolm, Lone Don, and The Gideon.

While reports surrounding the release have indicated that the album would arrive on major digital streaming platforms on June 15, it is currently being made available directly to fans through Yaksta‘s official website, YakstaWorld.com.

Steel Pulse Takes Message of Unity on Reggae Against Racism World Tour

Legendary British roots reggae band Steel Pulse is set to bring its message of unity, justice, and social consciousness across North America this summer as part of the Reggae Against Racism World Tour 2026. The tour celebrates more than five decades of activism and music from one of reggae’s most influential groups.

The U.S. leg of the tour kicks off July 17 in Oklahoma City and includes stops in St. Louis, Nashville, Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Phoenix, Ventura, Costa Mesa, and several other cities. Select dates in Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, and Pennsylvania will feature special appearances by The Original Wailers, while singer Eli-Mac is also slated to appear on portions of the run.

Frontman David Hinds says the tour is inspired by reggae’s enduring role as a voice against injustice and division. The tour concludes on August 16 in Costa Mesa, California, before the band returns for additional festival appearances later in the year.

Rise Montréal Returns to the Old Port this July

Rise Montréal, presented in collaboration with Tanguay as part of the A Taste of the Caribbean series, is set to take over the Vieux-Port de Montréal from July 9–12, 2026.

Headlining the four-day festival are Caribbean artists Duane Stephenson and Alison Hinds, alongside Chris Combette and DJ Camilo. The lineup also features a diverse roster of supporting acts including Energy Squad, DJ Don Shutah, Solidground All-Stars feat. Mikey Dangerous, Face-T, Aldo Guizmo, Kabey Konate, Wesli Band, Black Parents, Kelly Krow, DJ Abuelo, Algarete, MC Ivo, DJ Vyctor Maas, and DJ Cze.

The event will be held at Quai de l’Horloge, with doors opening at 6:00 PM each evening. Tickets are available at RiseMontreal.ca and TOTC.ca.