By Ricky Richardson | Contributing Writer
Inglewood, CA- Inglewood residents and visitors from surrounding communities gathered in a united front, put our differences aside, in Darby Park on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Everyone agreed that this was the place to be on a beautiful, humid, and overcast day.
America celebrated its 250th Birthday, Independence Day, in many ways. Hot dogs, summer blockbuster movies, backyard BBQ’s or picnics in the park, parades, baseball games, and rooftop parties are typical ways people celebrate the 4th of July.
The celebration in Inglewood consisted of a live music concert, food trucks and food vendors, vendors selling clothing, jewelry, and other apparel, and much more.
The City of Inglewood and Councilwoman Dionne Faulk hosted the 4th Annual Inglewood Music Festival. The festival featured another stellar lineup of national and internationally known artists as well as emerging and rising artists.
Councilwoman Dionne Faulk beamed with pride at the success of another wonderful festival. Chuck Dennis of the Canyon produced another amazing and flawless festival.
The thrill and excitement were palpable when the 10:00 am. DJ Qwesscoast was on the ones and twos to ensure that the energy stayed fluid in between each live performance. KJLH Radio host Adai Lamar returned as emcee of this historical celebration of the Inglewood Music Festival.
Darby Park grounds were crowded with people ready to party heartily. Attendance grew as the day progressed.
The show kicked off with a great performance by the nationally known Inglewood High School Marching Band. They earned national recognition after performing in Washington, D. C. one year ago, on the 4th of July.
Heaven Ava performed two original songs. I’m looking forward to hearing more about this singer/songwriter going forward.
Sherie, violinist and singer/songwriter, graced the stage next. The crowd and I were rockin’ with her throughout her set, especially on the track “Lovely Day.”
I was blown away by the rousing performance of the “National Anthem” by Sabrina Barnes, former Director, Parks and Recreation and Community Services. Sabrina is at ease singing in many genres of music. Don’t be surprised if you see Sabrina Barnes listed on the lineup for a music festival this summer or a gig at a local venue.
Rising Son took the crowd and me on a musical journey to Jamaica with a set of contagious, infectious Reggae tracks.
Saxophonist and vocalist Erisa Nicole is making a name for herself in a multitude of music genres. She captivated the crowd and me with her arrangement of “Outstanding,” “Driving,” and “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now.”
The above-mentioned performance was the perfect, seamless segue to the set by Dani B. Jaia, singer and member of Klymaxx featuring Cheryl Cooley. Ms. Jai opened her crowd-pleasing set with “Rock Steady,” and continued with “Bad Girls” and “Lady Marmalade,” to name a few.
Susie Hansen Latin Band took the crowd and me on another musical journey. We willingly travelled to the Caribbean for a thrilling set of Salsa, a little cumbia and some cha, cha, cha.
The Inglewood Music Festival continued with standout performances by Klymaxx featuring Cheryl Cooley and a headlining set by Cameo.