If you happen to be in Martha’s Vineyard from August 8th-10th, you may be one of the luckiest people on planet earth. According to a recent press release, Martha’s Vineyard Summer Madness concert event is going to be hosting Ladies First – a celebration of women in Black music and entertainment.
The three day long event has everything from panel discussions to beach bashes, but here are some highlights to look forward to:
Friday, August 8, 8 pm to 1 am: Tru School Hip Hop Concert
First things first, MC Lyte is performing/rapping/face-melting. Even though that should be enough to attract all sorts of fans, there’s also going to be spoken word performed by Bettina “Gold” Wilkerson. If you’re unfamiliar, check out some of her poetry here. BUT WAIT, there’s more. Monie Love of Dreamland is DJ-ing, and honoring MCs Us Girls (Lisa Lee, Debbie Dee, and Sha-Rock) for the 40th anniversary of Hip Hop culture (UZN is promoting the year long celebration.)
Saturday, August 9, 10 am: Panel Discussion
According to the Summer Madness website, it will feature “some of the most influential women of color executives and power brokers in the industry.” Hopefully you’ll be awake in time from the night before!
Saturday, August 9, 8 pm to 1 am: R&B Showcase
Amel Larrieux, formerly of Groove Theory, is singing and shows no signs of slowing down. Last year, she released Ice Cream Everyday; check out the single, “Alone”, here. Beverly Bond is gonna rock the rest of the night on a DJ set.
Sunday, August 10, 6 pm: Exclusive Performance by LAURYN HILL
Goddess/deity/angel Lauryn Hill will be gracing the people of Oak Bluffs with her presence in an exclusive performance. This show stopper is rounding out the event-filled weekend with her chart-topping jams and it is really making me contemplate buying a ticket.
So if you’re in the area (or just making the trek), check out this weekend-long celebration of super influential ladies of color. Buy tickets here! You’ll be glad you did.
All images via Martha’s Vineyard Summer Madness
