Inaugural Harlem Festival of Culture to Bring Out Cam’ron, Mase, Teyana Taylor & More

Harlem World is coming to the stage this summer. The lineup for the inaugural Harlem Festival of Culture has been announced, with borough natives Cam’ron, Mase, Teyana Taylor, and Doug E. Fresh scheduled as performers, along with acts including Bel Biv DeVoe, Wyclef Jean, Fat Joe, Remy Ma, Muni Long, Coco Jones, Eric Bellinger, Ro James, Tink and MAJOR. Hosting the event at Randall’s Island from July 28-30 is hip-hop legend MC Lyte.

Curating a Dancehall LinkUp is Estelle, with special appearances from Sister Nancy, Wayne Wonder, Nadine Sutherland, Lumidee, Rupee, Serani, and Mr. Killa. In partnership with the HFC, Harlem’s Apollo Theater will present intimate concert experiences which will be announced in early June.

Also featured at the HFC are interactive art installations, a culinary food court and Mart 125 Marketplace, the latter of which is a re-imagination of Harlem’s iconic economic district of Black-owned businesses that were located on 125 Street.

“Harlem is my home and home will always be where the heart is. It is in my DNA. There is no way I wouldn’t be part of such an epic moment in my hometown’s history,” said hip-hop legend and HFC Music Advisory Board member Doug E. Fresh in a press statement. “It’s a no-brainer for me and I am excited to show the world how Harlem really brings it!”

“As a native New Yorker, I’m honored to host the very first Harlem Festival of Culture,” added festival host Lyte. “[HFC] has planned something special that I think everyone – whether they’re from around the corner, across the country or around the world – will enjoy.”

Prior to the festival, HFC will present the second annual Black Independence Awards on June 17, which will honor cultural, social and economic contributions being made by Harlemites that specialize in leadership, entrepreneurship and creation.