Union County Review

Music enthusiasts gathered at Kean University's East Campus on September 21 for the Jazz & Roots Music Festival. The event, held annually since 2021, offered a day of jazz, blues, and reggae performances under sunny skies at The Lawn at Enlow Hall in Hillside.

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., emphasized the festival's role in community engagement: "Today is an example of Kean University anchoring down, making sure the community understands we appreciate them."

The festival featured Grammy-nominated reggae band Third World as headliners. Other performers included jazz musicians Stefon Harris & Blackout, guitarist Solomon Hicks, and DJ Prince Hakim. Festival producer Mike Griot noted the event's growing prominence: "Who knows how big this can get? All of the acts are great, and our headliner, Third World, is one of the most iconic groups in reggae."

Attendees enjoyed picnicking and exploring food vendors while families and students celebrated their shared love of music. Tracy Burwell, a sophomore from Union, expressed her excitement: "This is a beautiful event. I'm wowed by it." Ron Summers attended for the second time with his family: "There aren't many fall events like this where you can hang out from the afternoon into the evening."

Marlene Richardson and friends secured front-row seats early to enjoy the performances. She said, “Everything is wonderful. It's a nice outing, and it's free!”

The performers brought unique flair to their sets. Third World delivered island rhythms that resonated with attendees. Hicks reflected on his experience: “Anytime you're around nature, you just feel more grounded and close to a higher power.”

Steve Cochran, Kean Stage manager, highlighted live music's unifying power: “This festival is all about bringing people together through live music.”

Sponsors for the event included Prudential, Vermella Union, PSEG, First Bank, County of Union, and WBGO.