The Richmond Jazz and Music Festival Returns August 8-10
by Eric Jackson
T.I., Jodeci, Muni Long, Masego, and CeeLo Green are just a few of the heavy hitters set to perform at this year’s Richmond Jazz and Music Festival, returning this weekend August 8–10. The 2025 lineup blends icons, innovators, and rising stars — including Richmond’s own Alexander Mack, and newly added Ronnie Luxe — for a weekend celebration of music and culture. Mack, a Virginia native, and Luxe, who’s been making serious waves in the local scene, represent the city’s growing influence in contemporary music.
Read about Ronnie Luxe’s story in The Seen Interview series.
With community rumblings surrounding the lackluster lineup at the Allianz Amphitheater, along with parking concerns and high concession prices, the Richmond Jazz & Music Festival offers more than just a weekend fix for those looking for something with more seasoning, but a week of thoughtful programming. If there was ever concern about Richmond’s support for Black music, the Richmond Jazz and Music Festival is here to silence them, for now.
New this year is Straight No Chaser: A Downtown Jazz Suite—a multi-day jazz experience curated by wine connoisseur, artist, and cultural cultivator Chauncey Jenkins, and presented by RJMF. Kicking off August 6, the series transforms Downtown Richmond into a lowkey jazz club, featuring free, no gimmick jazz performances at local restaurants and venues.
Richmond artists like Sam Reed, whose sultry, powerful voice empowers every listener, will perform alongside pianist Calvin Brown on Wednesday, August 6 at Bar Solita. That same evening, Black Olive, the newest Black-owned pizza spot in Downtown Richmond, will host a set by Chet Frierson of Weekend Plans, one of Richmond’s finest musical acts. Tarrant’s Downtown, Richmond Marriott and the VMFA Jazz Cafe will hold performances that day as well.
The following day, Common House will host the signature Jazz Suite event with John D’earth and Friends on Thursday. Then, on Friday, August 8, jazz singer-songwriter Kemi Adegoroye will grace the historic Hippodrome Theatre with a special performance to kick off the festival weekend.
The Richmond Seen
Starting at the top of 2025, the passionate voices behind The Richmond Seen have been committed to spotlighting the culture, creativity, and community of Richmond, VA. From arts and food to neighborhood stories and underground movements, our team of writers, photographers, and contributors work to ensure the pulse of the city is seen, heard, and felt.
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