R&B singer Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds.
With less than 10 weeks left before the hugely anticipated Groovin In The Park concert at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens on June 24, organisers report that ticket sales are 'brisk' at all the outlets in the Tri-State area and online at EventBrite.com.
"We got off to an early start this year, and I am happy to report that we are ahead of schedule in ticket sales and areas that are critical to having a successful festival," said Christopher Robert, founder and CEO of Groovin Inc.
Over the past seven years, the annual festival has presented a dazzling array of R&B and pop talent, including international legends Michael Bolton, Air Supply, Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, Babyface, Peabo Bryson, Regina Belle, Billy Ocean, Brian McKnight and R Kelly. From the reggae fraternity, they have had Beres Hammond; Freddie McGregor; U Roy; Jimmy Cliff; Steel Pulse; Bob Andy; Morgan Heritage; Chronixx; Mavado; Toots; Marcia Griffiths; Judy Mowatt; Beenie Man; Stitchie; Busy Signal; and many other luminaries.
One subtle change patrons attending the 2018 concert will observe is a bigger focus on reggae. "This year we are putting the focus solidly on reggae," Roberts stated.
"In our informal survey that we conduct each year, patrons have consistently asked to see more reggae acts. With the focus squarely on reggae, I am pleased to announce that for the first time in the history of the festival, a soon-to-be confirmed reggae artiste will be the closing act," he continued.
Groovin in the Park has received a written commitment from the New York Department of Parks and Recreation that the show will go until 9:30 p.m., 90 minutes longer than the normal 8 p.m. cut-off time.
Among the confirmed acts for Groovin In The Park 2018 are; Grammy Award-winning artiste Kenny 'Babyface' Edmonds, Busy Signal, Romain Virgo and Capleton.