Inside the 2024 Riverfront Jazz Festival: A Weekend of Soul, Rhythm, and Discovery

The 2024 TBAAL Riverfront Jazz Festival lit up Dallas over Labor Day weekend, bringing three unforgettable days of live music, cultural celebration, and emerging artistry to the Dallas Convention Center. Produced by Curtis King and The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL), the annual festival continues to be a hallmark of Dallas’ cultural calendar spotlighting both established legends and the next wave of talent reshaping the sound of contemporary jazz and soul.

This year’s lineup featured powerhouse performances from Jeffrey Osborne, Sheila E., and Fantastic Negrito, whose electrifying set fused blues, funk, and rock with sharp lyrical storytelling. Audiences were treated to an eclectic mix of styles and voices, from seasoned icons to rising stars such as the String Queens and a host of emerging artists who proved the spirit of jazz innovation is as alive as ever.

Covering the event from the ground, UBEXMedia had the opportunity to capture the festival’s vibrant energy firsthand — from the pulsating performances to the candid moments behind the scenes. In an exclusive interview, Fantastic Negrito spoke about his creative process, his journey as an independent artist, and the deeper social themes that drive his music. His presence at Riverfront underscored the festival’s mission to blend artistry with authenticity, bridging cultural history with modern expression.

Beyond the stages, the festival grounds offered a full experience that celebrated the best of Dallas’ community and culture. Crowds gathered among food trucks and local vendors, enjoying a mix of culinary flavors as live sets filled the evening air. Each night culminated with a lively after-party at the Aloft Hotel, where Martha Burks and her band kept audiences dancing late into the night – a soulful finale to days filled with rhythm and connection.

The Riverfront Jazz Festival has long stood as more than a weekend event. It’s a cultural statement; one that honors the artistry, resilience, and evolution of Black music while opening doors for emerging talent to reach new audiences. The 2024 edition once again affirmed why it remains one of the most vital and anticipated music gatherings in the region.

Coverage by UBEXMedia, capturing the sound, the stories, and the soul of the Riverfront Jazz Festival.