For its 16th year, ONE Musicfest has solidified its place as one of the biggest and most influential music festivals in the U.S., and it’s proudly Black-owned. Founded by HBCU alum Jason “J” Carter, the festival continues to celebrate the power of Black music, culture, and community.
A proud graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), where he earned his B.A. in Business Administration and Economics, Carter launched ONE Musicfest in 2010 with a vision to create a space that honored the richness of Black artistry while filling a major void in the festival landscape.
This year’s lineup was nothing short of iconic, featuring performances by Lloyd, Ray J, Bobby V, Sammie, Pleasure P, LL Cool J, Jeezy, Fergie, and Jermaine Dupri with collaborations alongside Ludacris that had the crowd electrified.
Carter shared his excitement about the festival:
“ONE Musicfest has always been about uniting legends, elevating new voices, and creating unforgettable cultural moments. While we’re paying tribute to Atlanta’s legacy, this year’s lineup reflects the richness and diversity of Black music and culture from across the globe.”
Held in the heart of Atlanta, surrounded by historic HBCUs such as Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, and Morehouse College, ONE Musicfest continues to embody the legacy of Black music and culture.
Carter was also named one of the 50 most influential HBCU alums by Historically Black Since
Jason “J” Carter’s vision has not only transformed the festival world but also continues to inspire HBCU students to dream big, create boldly, and never give up.