The Black Radio Experience, a premier celebration of Black music and culture, returned to Napa Valley for an immersive three-day festival from August 29th to August 31st, 2025. This event, an offshoot of the renowned Blue Note Jazz Festival, transformed The Meritage Resort and Spa into a vibrant hub for hip-hop, rap, jazz, soul, and spoken word performances across multiple stages. Curated by Grammy-winning pianist, producer, and artist-in-residence Robert Glasper, the festival not only showcased an extensive lineup of celebrated musicians but also provided a significant platform for Black-owned businesses within the food and wine industries.
A Legacy of Sound and Culture
The Black Radio Experience, in its fourth year of operation, has established itself as a cornerstone event that honors the legacy and future of Black artistic expression. Originally launched as the Blue Note Jazz Festival Napa Valley in 2022, the event has evolved, rebranding in 2024 as the Black Radio Experience to more specifically highlight its focus. Each iteration has been meticulously curated by Robert Glasper, whose acclaimed “Black Radio” album trilogy serves as an inspiration for the festival’s bookings. Glasper’s influence is instrumental in bringing together a diverse array of artists, creating a “family reunion” atmosphere where collaborators and friends gather to share their talents. The festival aims to transcend genre boundaries, fostering an environment where improvisation and spontaneous collaboration are richly celebrated.
A Star-Studded Lineup Across Genres
The 2025 edition featured a compelling roster of top-tier talent. Friday’s headliners included the soulful sounds of Anthony Hamilton and the powerful vocals of Jazmine Sullivan. Saturday’s main stage was ignited by the legendary funk and soul of Earth, Wind & Fire, the dynamic hip-hop collective The Roots, and the versatile Lupe Fiasco. Sunday’s closing performances were led by Robert Glasper himself, joined by the iconic Questlove on drums and the captivating vocalist Yebba.
Beyond the headliners, the festival offered a rich tapestry of performances. Esteemed artists such as Big Daddy Kane, D-Nice, Slick Rick, Terrace Martin, Kenyon Dixon, Aneesa Strings, Willow, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Little Brother, J. Ivy, The Soul Rebels featuring Warren G and Goapele, Esperanza Spalding, Stokley, Kim Burrell, Baby Rose, Infinity Song, and Braxton Cook graced the various stages. After-parties featured prominent DJs like D-Nice, Talib Kweli, Bryan-Michael Cox, Questlove, Jazzy Jeff, and Jahi Sundance, extending the musical celebration into the late hours.
Culinary Delights and Wine Tastings: A Taste of Black Excellence
Napa Valley’s reputation for culinary excellence was at the forefront of the Black Radio Experience, with a distinct emphasis on showcasing Black-owned businesses. Festival attendees indulged in a variety of gourmet experiences, from elaborate brunches inspired by Caribbean and Creole cuisines to afternoon barbecues led by Chef-in-Residence Darryl Bell Jr. These culinary events offered a platform for chefs to present their innovative dishes, often paired with wines from Black-owned wineries and vintners featured in the Black Vines® Wine Garden. This integration of food and wine not only celebrated Black entrepreneurship but also provided a unique sensory journey that complemented the musical offerings.
An Intimate and Immersive Experience
Relocated to the more intimate confines of The Meritage Resort and Spa, the festival offered attendees a chance to connect more deeply with the artists and the cultural experience. With three distinct stages, the event facilitated a seamless flow between performances, allowing guests to explore a wide range of music and artistry. The festival also provided opportunities for hotel packages, creating a comprehensive staycation experience for its patrons. The event’s capacity of around 3,000 attendees per day ensured a comfortable and engaging atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of community among music lovers.
The Black Radio Experience continues to be a vital platform for celebrating the breadth and depth of Black music and culture, offering a unique blend of world-class performances, culinary artistry, and community engagement in the heart of Wine Country.Its commitment to honoring established legends while championing emerging talent ensures its position as a must-attend event for discerning music and culture enthusiasts.
