About The Event

Celebrate Columbus’ vibrant Black culture during CBUS Soul^® Fest! Presented by Columbus Recreation and Parks, CBUS Soul^® Fest features live music, great food and lots of soul!

The festival will occur August 15 and 16, 2025, in downtown Columbus, Ohio. We seek established artists and DJs performing music with roots in soul, funk, gospel, R&B and hip-hop/rap. Priority is placed on dynamic live performances and musical excellence. Strong marketing materials are required. We encourage you to provide links to videos showcasing your group in a live performance setting, along with recent music samples. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, priority will be given to applications submitted by April 7, 2025.

Important Information

Prior to applying, please consider the following information:

• Set lengths are 60-90 minutes.
• Artists who apply through our application process and are offered a performance opportunity will receive payment based on length of performance and the number of performers in group.
• A limited number of headliner and sub-headliner spots are available annually by invitation and the terms of these contracts are negotiated independently.
• Sound, lighting and general backline will be provided for all artists.
• CBUS Soul^® Fest does not cover transportation or accommodation expenses for local or regional artists.

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