My trip to the Cincinnati Music Festival this year was nothing short of magical—one of those rare experiences that feeds your soul and stays with you long after the music stops.
We stayed at our usual hotel—our trusted go-to spot that never disappoints. It’s conveniently close to all the action, and just stepping into the lobby each year feels like a warm welcome home. But what truly made this trip unforgettable were the people. Some of the friends I traveled with have been in my life for nearly 40 years. That kind of bond? You can’t buy it.
(If you enjoyed this post and want to try out the same ingredients and tools I use, feel free to check them out below!
These are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work
- 7.5 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven: https://amzn.to/4dcUqms
- Lodge Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Skillet: https://amzn.to/3TyyMSA
- Bamboo Seasonings Box with Mini Spoon: https://amzn.to/4dfHzA6)
The weekend kicked off with a dinner that I still dream about—juicy, perfectly grilled steaks that were so tender they practically melted before hitting your tongue. I had fun switching up my looks throughout the day, starting with a breezy daytime jumper and later stepping out in an elegant Dolce & Gabbana outfit for the evening. The moment we entered the venue, we were swept up in the vibrant, electric energy that only live music can bring.
The festival lineup this year featured powerhouse names like Fantasia, Ne-Yo, Maxwell, and more. But let’s be honest—while the artists were incredibly talented, the performance order felt... off. Fantasia, with her explosive voice and raw emotion, absolutely should’ve opened or headlined the show. Even among the crowd, people were buzzing about how her set lit the place up. Sadly, many left during Maxwell’s performance, which dulled the night a bit. He’s talented, no doubt, but the pacing just didn’t click the way it should have.
The second night brought tradition and togetherness. As always, we all wore white—our annual ritual that symbolizes unity and fresh energy. My outfit? A $12 gem from TikTok Shop (yes, you read that right!) and a cute mini fan that saved me from the sweltering heat. That night was all about old-school R&B royalty: Bobby Brown, New Edition, and the one and only Johnny Gill.
Let me tell you—Johnny Gill touched my spirit. He didn’t just perform, he testified. He shared how Babyface believed in him, choosing him for the Girls Night Out album, which helped elevate his career to new heights. Hearing that kind of vulnerability on stage, mixed with timeless vocals? It gave me chills.
The final night was the ultimate celebration. A joyful, high-energy jam session where we danced, laughed, and sang our hearts out. The crowd—full of die-hard music lovers—brought a beautiful warmth, and the veteran artists reminded us all of why R&B remains a genre of soul and truth.
By morning, we were packing our bags with full hearts. I kept it simple for the ride home: Judy Blue jeans, a soft t-shirt, and sandals—all from TikTok Shop. I was tired, but in the best way—emotionally filled and spiritually restored.
I’m deeply thankful for the friends who joined me, the artists who gave their all, and the memories we created. And if I could leave you with just one message, it would be this:
Always put God first in everything you do.
This year’s Cincinnati Music Festival was more than just an event—it was a beautiful reminder that music, when shared with good people, becomes a healing force. And that is what makes life rich.
