R&B Legend Johnny Gill to Headline Umoja Fest 2025With Special Guests Cupid and Mr. Cheeks of The Lost Boyz

Seattle, WA — Umoja Fest, the Northwest’s premier celebration of Black culture, community, and heritage, proudly announces that Johnny Gill, one of R&B’s most powerful and enduring voices, will headline Umoja Fest 2025, taking place August 2–3 at Judkins Park in Seattle’s historic Central District.

A Grammy-nominated vocalist and platinum-selling artist, Johnny Gill is best known as a member of the legendary groups New Edition and LSG, as well as for his chart-topping solo hits like “My, My, My,” “Rub You the Right Way,” and “There U Go.” With a career spanning over four decades, Gill continues to captivate audiences with his rich vocals and soulful performances. He will close out the weekend with a can’t-miss set on Sunday, August 3 at 6:00 PM.

Also joining the lineup are national recording artists Cupid, beloved across the country as The Line Dance King with his current hit “Flex” and also the creator of the viral classic “Cupid Shuffle,” performing Aug. 2nd and Mr. Cheeks, Grammy-winning hip-hop legend from the iconic group The Lost Boyz performing Aug. 3rd. 

Hailed as “The Soul of Seafair,” Umoja Fest brings generations together to celebrate the richness and resilience of African American culture through music, art, food, fashion, and community. The festival kicks off with the Umoja Fest Parade on Saturday, August 2 at 1:00 PM, beginning at 23rd Avenue & Cherry Street and marching south to Jackson Street.

Following the parade, the celebration continues at Judkins Park with a weekend full of family-friendly programming and cultural experiences, including:

• Soul of the City Stage curated by Dope Culture

• “Collegiate Couture” Fashion Show, Produced by Unika Guilmet for BeUnique Agency 

• Vibe Bingo, Line Dance Zones, and Live DJs

• Over 100 Retail & Food Vendors & Resource Booths

• Children’s Village presented by ADEFUA Cultural Education Workshop

“Umoja means unity,” said festival organizers. “At a time when our community is facing rising challenges, this festival is about joy, healing, and collective power. This year’s lineup is a celebration of Black excellence past, present, and future.”

The event is made possible by the support of title sponsor King County Equity Now, presenting sponsor Amazon with support from UW Medicine, Africatown Community Land Trust, Umpqua Bank, City of Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, City of Seattle Parks & Recreation Get Moving, Seattle Roots Community Health, Byrd Barr Place, Providence-Swedish, Community Passageways and more.