WBGO DJ Kicks Off Free Summer Concert Series
Legendary WBGO radio personality Felix Hernandez will bring his famous Rhythm Revue Dance Party to NJPAC’s Chambers Plaza on June 27, 2025, launching the annual Horizon Sounds of the City free outdoor concert series as part of the North 2 Shore Festival. The event promises an evening of classic soul and R&B that transforms downtown Newark into a community celebration.
The free, open-air dance party represents the festival’s commitment to accessible cultural programming while highlighting the rich musical heritage of New Jersey’s largest city through one of its most beloved radio personalities.
Radio Legend Brings Dance Party to Downtown Newark
Felix Hernandez, long established as one of the Northeast’s premier soul and R&B authorities through his WBGO radio program, will transform Chambers Plaza into a vibrant outdoor dance floor with his signature mix of classic tracks from artists including James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye. The event continues Hernandez’s tradition of creating communal experiences through carefully curated musical selections that span decades of soul, funk, and R&B history.
“Felix doesn’t just play records—he creates an atmosphere where everyone feels connected through the music,” said NJPAC President John Schreiber. “His encyclopedic knowledge combined with his innate understanding of what makes people dance has made the Rhythm Revue an institution in this region for decades.”
According to North 2 Shore Festival organizers, the event will feature Hernandez’s renowned selection of classic tracks while creating a “festival atmosphere” that welcomes attendees of all ages and backgrounds to participate in this communal celebration of soul music’s enduring legacy.
NJPAC’s Free Outdoor Series Enhances Urban Experience
The Rhythm Revue Dance Party kicks off NJPAC’s popular Horizon Sounds of the City series, which has become a summertime tradition in Newark. The free outdoor concert series transforms Chambers Plaza into a vibrant community gathering space where residents and visitors alike can experience high-quality performances in an accessible, welcoming environment.
“These free events represent the heart of NJPAC’s mission to make the arts accessible to everyone,” explained Sarah Thompson, NJPAC’s Director of Community Engagement. “The Horizon Sounds of the City series brings together people from all walks of life, creating these beautiful moments where the entire neighborhood comes together through music.”
The plaza, located at 1 Center Street adjacent to NJPAC’s main building, will feature local food and beverage vendors during the event, enhancing the community festival atmosphere while supporting local businesses. The convenient downtown location makes the event accessible via public transportation, with parking available in nearby lots for those traveling from further distances.
North 2 Shore Festival Emphasizes Community Access
Felix Hernandez’s performance represents the inclusive spirit of the broader North 2 Shore Festival, which runs from June 14-29 across Asbury Park, Newark, and Atlantic City. According to New Jersey Stage, the multi-city celebration includes over 300 events ranging from major concert performances to community-based arts programming.
The festival, conceived by Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy, aims to showcase New Jersey’s artistic diversity while ensuring programming remains accessible to all residents. This commitment to accessibility is particularly evident in Newark’s programming, which features numerous free events in public spaces throughout the city.
“Events like the Rhythm Revue Dance Party are central to our mission of creating cultural experiences that truly reflect the communities we serve,” noted festival director Maria Rodriguez. “Felix has this remarkable ability to bring people together through music in a way that celebrates Newark’s rich cultural heritage while creating new shared memories.”
Event Details and Additional Information
The Felix Hernandez Rhythm Revue Dance Party begins at 5:00 PM on Friday, June 27, in Chambers Plaza at NJPAC. The event is free and open to the public with no tickets required, though early arrival is recommended for those wanting prime dancing space near the stage.
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating, though much of the crowd typically remains standing for dancing throughout the evening. The event will proceed rain or shine, with contingency plans in place should inclement weather arise.
Additional information about this and other North 2 Shore Festival events can be found on the festival’s official website, which includes comprehensive details about performances and activities across all three host cities during the two-week celebration.
