The Center for Cultural Vibrancy Stage returned for another year at the Richmond Folk Festival, celebrating the musical traditions and artists that make Virginia such a vibrant place.
One of the highlights of the weekend honored Richmond’s own musical icon D’Angelo, who sadly passed away in 2025. Led by Randall Cort, Kia Bennett, Bill McGee, and Carl Lester El, Soul of the City: Richmond Celebrates D’Angelo brought together local musicians who influenced D’Angelo, worked alongside him, and were inspired by his music. The tribute was special because it celebrated more than a groundbreaking musician: it celebrated Richmond’s role in shaping his sound and legacy.
It was also a fitting reflection of CCV’s mission: celebrating the artists, traditions, and communities that make a lasting contribution to our cultural life.
Dr. Sesha Joi Moon, Cabinet Official & Chief Diversity Officer for the Office of the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia presented the American flag that flew at half-mast upon D’Angelo’s death to his brothers, Luther and Rodney, and his son Morocco. Luther told the crowd: “Anybody that knows me knows that I do not play about his [D’Angelo’s] music. I don’t play. I’ve been to the Grammys, right? I’ve been to the BET Awards and I’ve seen all of those tributes and I’m not taking anything away from those professional musicians but these right here… give it up. See the reason why it touched me so much was because… in D’Angelo’s music was soul and a heart that was exhibited by the musicians on the stage tonight.”
This year’s lineup also highlighted the region’s rich musical heritage while exploring connections across cultures and genres. Highlights included the Swanky Kitchen Band of the Cayman Islands, continuing CCV’s work to preserve and share traditional Caribbean fiddle music; a collaboration between multi-instrumentalist Danny Knicely and the Melichenko Family from Ukraine; and a performance by Richmond’s own Legendary Ingramettes, who have carried the city’s gospel tradition to audiences for more than six decades.
We were also thrilled to welcome Charlottesville’s Central Virginia Bluegrass Destroyers. Known for their blazing musicianship and beloved weekly performances in Charlottesville, the group brought the energy and artistry of Virginia’s bluegrass community to the festival.
Richmond’s own Alexander Mack added another dimension to the stage with his soulful blend of R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and dance. A Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, producer, and performer, Mack embodies the creative spirit of a city whose musical influence reaches far beyond its borders.
From traditional fiddle music and bluegrass to gospel, soul, and beyond, this year’s stage reflected CCV’s commitment to supporting cultural traditions and the artists who keep them alive.
We’re grateful to all the performers, festival organizers, production staff, and audiences who made the weekend possible. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to seeing you again next year!
