Breakout soul singer Baby Rose brings her distinctive, smoky vocals and emotionally raw performances to Sony Hall for a can’t-miss Black Music Month concert. Known for her rich, retro sound and powerful storytelling, Baby Rose bridges classic R&B with modern soul and has collaborated with artists like J. Cole, Ari Lennox, and Robert Glasper.

Saratoga Jazz Festival (June 28–29 | Saratoga Springs, NY – Capital-Saratoga)

Hosted at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, this is one of the most celebrated jazz festivals in the Northeast. The festival features top-tier Black performers such as Gary Clark Jr. and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, along with food vendors, a craft fair, and a mix of jazz, funk, blues, and indie music.

Great Blue Heron Festival (July 4–6 | Sherman, NY – Chautauqua-Allegheny)

Photo courtesy of the Great Blue Heron Music Festival

This multiday music festival features genres rooted in African and Caribbean traditions, including reggae, zydeco, Afrobeat, and roots music. The 2025 lineup includes The Rumble, a Grammy-nominated group blending traditional New Orleans music with a modern, contemporary sound with funk, jazz, and soul. Enjoy drum circles, dance tents, family-friendly programming, food trucks, artisan vendors, and scenic camping.

Pleasantville Music Festival (July 12 | Pleasantville, NY – Hudson Valley)

A regional favorite that celebrates national and local artists across multiple stages, the Pleasantville Music Festival spotlights R&B, soul, and indie acts connected to Black music traditions. This year’s performers include Robert Randolph, whose gospel-infused pedal steel guitar work brings electrifying energy to the stage, as well as soulful sets from Ellis Hooks, Alexis P. Suter, and the high-powered rock ’n’ soul of Nikki Hill. The festival also features beer and wine gardens, family activities, and a zero-waste initiative.

Great South Bay Music Festival (July 24–27 | Patchogue, NY – Long Island)

Long Island’s longest-running music, art, and cultural festival returns to Shorefront Park with a vibrant mix of genres and talent. This summer’s standout performers include reggae icons Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and Stephen Marley, soulful island vibes from J Boog, and the genre-blending sounds of Gym Class Heroes, fronted by rapper Travis McCoy. With over 60 acts performing across four stages, the festival also features jazz, soul, and funk, plus a Craft Village, family KIDZONE, gourmet food court, and wine and beer gardens.