Sol Blume is an annual music festival held in Sacramento, California, focusing on R&B, soul, and hip-hop genres. Founded in 2017 by Fornati Kumeh and Justin Nordan, the festival aims to provide a platform for young and upcoming artists from diverse backgrounds while celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of music.[1] The festival features performances from both established and emerging artists, with an emphasis on promoting inclusivity, diversity, and artistic expression. Since its inception, Sol Blume has grown in popularity, attracting attendees from across the country and even internationally.[2] The festival's unique blend of established acts and rising stars has garnered acclaim within the music community, solidifying its position as a prominent event in the Sacramento music scene.[3] Sol Blume continues to evolve, with each year bringing new talent, experiences, and opportunities for artists and attendees alike. With its commitment to promoting culture, diversity, and good vibes, Sol Blume remains a highlight of the annual music calendar in Sacramento.
Sol Blume festival was established in 2018 with the intention of providing a distinctive platform for R&B, Soul, and Hip Hop music enthusiasts. The inaugural festival took place downtown in Sacramento at Cesar Chavez Plaza on April 28th, 2018.[4] Despite being a relatively small-scale event attracting 5,800 people compared to larger music festivals, Sol Blume garnered attention for its focus on young and emerging artists, as well as its dedication to diversity and inclusion.[5]
Each year, Sol Blume curates a lineup predominantly composed of women and people of color, reflecting its commitment to showcasing underrepresented voices in the music industry. The festival is known for its boutique atmosphere, creating an intimate and immersive experience for attendees to enjoy a day of soulful sounds and vibrant performances.
Following the success of its first edition, Sol Blume returned for its second year on Saturday, April 27, 2019. Held again in Downtown Sacramento, the festival expanded its lineup and attracted over 6,500 attendees.[6] Headliners for the 2019 edition included Miguel, Jessie Reyez, Queen Naija, J.I.D, Masego, Tierra Whack, Summer Walker, Kiana Ledé, Snoh Aalegra, and Raveena.
Sol Blume experienced a hiatus from 2020-2021 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.[7] The festival was unable to proceed amidst health and safety concerns. This pause significantly impacted both the festival organizers and its dedicated fan base. Anticipation for its return grew among fans and artists alike as they awaited the opportunity to once again experience the festival.[8]
After a two-year break, Sol Blume was scheduled to return to Sacramento for its third year since its inception, taking place on Saturday, April 30, 2022, and Sunday, May 1, 2022.[9] The festival underwent significant changes, including a new location and an expanded duration, now spanning over two days. Moving from downtown's Cesar Chavez Plaza to the larger Discovery Park along the river. The lineup for the 2022 edition of Sol Blume featured predominantly R&B and soul artists, with headliners such as Jorja Smith, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Alina Baraz, Majid Jordan, SiR, Lucky Daye, Kiana Ledé, dvsn, Fousheé, Jhené Aiko, Summer Walker, Thundercat, Syd, BLST, Smino, Tinashe, and Victoria Monet.
Preparations for the fourth annual Sol Blume festival commenced in 2022 amidst high anticipation. The organizers announced the return of the festival January 17, 2023, promising another year of experience for attendees.[10] However, in March 2023, California experienced the impact of two consecutive atmospheric rivers, resulting in heavy rainfall, snowfall, and powerful winds.[11] The elevated water levels on the Sacramento River surpassed 32 feet, leading to water overflow at the Fremont Weir and into the Yolo Bypass.[12] Due to severe flooding caused by multiple atmospheric rivers in Northern California, Discovery Park experienced significant damage, leading to the postponement of the festival originally scheduled for April 29th and 30th. The decision to reschedule the event to August 19 and 20 was made by City of Sacramento park officials to ensure safety and proper preparation. Despite the challenges posed by the sudden change in plans, the organizers, ENT Legends, adapted and moved the festival to a summer date. The majority of the initially announced lineup remained unchanged, with headliners Brent Faiyaz and Kehlani leading the way.[13] The festival also featured performances by Ella Mai, Jessie Reyez, Isaiah Rashad, Chloe, Joey Bada$$, Pink Sweat$, Nao, Sabrina Claudio, Pink Pantheress, and other artists.
In 2024, Sol Blume marked its return for its fifth anniversary in February of 2024. For the first time ever, the festival would now span three days, slated to take place from May 3rd to May 5th, 2024. The 2024 lineup boasted performances by artists such as SZA, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Snoh Aalegra, Omar Apollo, PinkPantheress, Kaytranada, Masego, SiR, Wale, Kelela, Ari Lennox, and Doechii. However on April 19, 2024, Sol Blume announced that it would undergo a significant change, necessitated by the challenges faced for the second consecutive year.[14] Due to ongoing site damage and safety concerns resulting from adverse weather conditions, the 2024 festival could not proceed as planned. Sol Blume was rescheduled to August 15–17, 2025. This adjustment also marks a permanent transition of Sol Blume to late summer, aimed at avoiding weather-related conflicts in the future.
Sol Blume has had a significant economic impact on the Sacramento region.[15] The festival, held annually at Discovery Park, attracted a record-breaking 46,000 attendees in its fourth edition in August 2023, doubling the previous year's attendance. The festival has steadily grown in popularity and size. Festival organizers estimate that the influx of attendees has contributed to the local economy through increased tourism, spending on accommodations, dining, transportation, and other related services.