Richmond has long been rich in musical talent. The city offers an array of budding and veteran singers, songwriters and musicians. Many big-name artists got their start here, and others continue to tour while keeping their home base local. Add to that the people working behind the scenes to make the magic happen, and you have an area ripe for harnessing talent.
It all coalesces to produce award-winning industry players, such as Mad Skillz, whose recent Grammy win for his “Words for Days, Vol. 1” album included 14 local collaborators. This year’s Newlin Music Prize, awarded to a Richmond and Petersburg area artist for the best full-length record released during the year prior, went to Weekend Plans, and 19 other musicians made the short list.
While the redevelopment of Brown’s Island has meant a pause on some summer music, it signals good things ahead for future events. And new offerings such as cabarets at DreamHaus, an expanded season of After Hours Concerts at The Innsbrook Pavilion and performances at CarMax Park should make the coming months a vibrant season for all music lovers.
Rapper Tone Loc helped kick off performances at the new CarMax Park in March. (Photo by Jordan Lank courtesy Richmond Flying Squirrels)
