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By Mabel Pais
Newark’s cherished free concert series “Horizon Sounds of the City” which started on June 25, 2026 continues in summer 2026, when the beautifully redesigned and expanded outdoor space Chambers Plaza comes alive as music fans and community members gather for this much-loved Jersey summer tradition.
This year, the series began earlier in the season when Horizon Sounds of the City joined “North to Shore Festival Welcomes the World,” a month-long celebration of New Jersey’s love of the arts, and the global passion for soccer.
On June 25 at 5:00 pm, “Horizon Sounds of the City” began with the legendary WBGO DJ Felix Hernandez, who launched the festivities with his Rhythm Revue Dance Party, spinning classic soul, R&B, and dance grooves. Hernandez has launched the series for more than a decade, and his appearance – which annually packs the plaza with dancers of all ages – sets the stage for a vibrant summer, featuring an exciting lineup of world-class performers and on-site activations.
This year’s spectacular lineup features a diverse array of world-renowned artists, including:
6/25: DJ Felix Hernandez
6/26: DJ Wallah with Nice & Smooth
7/9: A Tribute to Mtume featuring R&B Hall of Famer Kenny Lattimore, Ms. Lisa Fischer, Tawatha Agee and Ray Chew
7/16: SPINALL
7/23: Kurtis Blow
7/30: CimaFunk
8/6: Vivian Green
“Horizon Sounds of the City is more than just music; it’s a celebration of Newark’s spirit and a commitment to uplifting our neighbors,” said Jonathan R. Pearson, Executive Director of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.”
Each event will feature an array of food trucks serving local favorites just beyond the dance floor, as well as sponsor giveaways and community resource tables offering information and support from city nonprofits and other organizations.
In addition to headline acts, each evening will showcase opening performances by artists. Events in July and August will also feature readings by spoken word poets through NJPAC’s ongoing Dodge Poetry initiative (https://njpac.org/series/dodgepoetry).
Students from NJPAC’s renowned Arts Education training programs (https://njpac.org/arts-education) will perform as one of the opening acts of the final performance, offering audiences a glimpse of Newark’s next generation of stars.
Everyone in the community is invited to experience the “Horizon Sounds of the City” concert series. Be advised to bring a lawn chair, sunblock and your best dance moves to Newark’s most fun summer-long party!
To learn more about “Horizon Sounds of the City” visit (https://njpac.org/arts-education) or (https://njpac.org/soundsofthecity)
A TRIBUTE TO MTUME
KENNY LATTIMORE, MS. LISA FISCHER, TAWATHA AGEE AND RAY CHEW!
Horizon Sounds of the City
Thursday, July 9, 2026 @ 5PM
Chambers Plaza
FREE
A Tribute to Mtume featuring R&B Hall of Famer Kenny Lattimore, Ms. Lisa Fischer, Tawatha Agee and Ray Chew! Celebrating the legacy of ’80s hitmaker and activist James Mtume, founder of the band Mtume and creator of iconic R&B jams like “Juicy Fruit,” “You, Me and He,” “Would You Like to Fool Around,” and “Breathless.” Alongside songwriting partner Reggie Lucas, Mtume produced for legends such as Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway, Stephanie Mills, and Phyllis Hyman. Musical director Ray Chew leads this tribute, featuring R&B Hall of Famer Kenny Lattimore, Ms. Lisa Fischer and Mtume’s lead vocalist Tawatha Agee.
SPINALL
Horizon Sounds of the City
Thursday, July 16, 2026 @ 5PM
Chambers Plaza
FREE
It’s a party on the plaza, with the world-famous SPINALL spinning Afropop, EDM and hip hop. Born in Lagos, he’s the first Nigerian DJ to play Coachella, SXSW and Glastonbury. Along with six studio albums, he’s also spun for Bruno Mars and Jay-Z.
KURTIS BLOW
Horizon Sounds of the City
Thursday, July 23, 2026 @ 5PM
Chambers Plaza
FREE
Back on the NJPAC mic — it’s legendary MC Kurtis Blow! One of the founding fathers of hip hop, he gave us huge hits like “The Breaks,” “Basketball” and “If I Ruled the World.” For those who love old-school hip hop, this party is gonna be off the hook.
CIMAFUNK
Horizon Sounds of the City
Thursday, July 30, 2025 @ 5PM
Chambers Plaza
FREE
GRAMMY® nominee Cimafunk! The euphoric, funkadelic Afro-Cuban band celebrates Blackness across borders. With Latin flavor and unstoppable energy, Cimafunk brings the party each and every time. Special guest Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars — a gem of the New Orleans music scene, will be present with a funky Creole-Calypso sound.
VIVIAN GREEN
Horizon Sounds of the City
Thursday, Aug 6, 2026 @ 5PM
Chambers Plaza
FREE
Celebrated vocalist Vivian Green captivates audiences with her rich, unforgettable R&B anthems like “Emotional Rollercoaster” and “Get Right Back to My Baby.” Renowned for her mesmerizing vocals, Vivian has released multiple acclaimed albums, earned chart-topping hits, and collaborated with industry icons. Her passionate artistry continues to inspire fans and redefine modern soul. Fans will fall in love with her extraordinary voice all over again.
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
NJPAC, located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States. It is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey — where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day.
As New Jersey’s anchor cultural institution, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city.
Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 12 million visitors (including more than two million children) since opening its doors in 1997 and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit https://njpac.org for more information.
NJPAC
One Center Street
Newark, New Jersey 07102
njpac.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722)
Follow NJPAC Online:
Website: njpac.org
Twitter: @NJPAC
Instagram: @NJPAC
Hashtag: #NJPAC
Facebook: facebook.com/NJPAC
YouTube: NJPACtv
Follow NJPAC’s Standing in Solidarity Series Online:
Website: njpac.org/takeastand
Hashtag: #NJPACTakeAStand Youtube: Standing in Solidarity playlist
Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Education, Spirituality, Social Issues, Health and Wellness, Business, and Cuisine.
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