Owner of The Silver Room, Eric Williams and Mayor of Chicago Brandon Johnson at The Silver Room Sound System Block Party (Photo credit: Eddy “Precise” Lamarre)
In its final year, the Silver Room Block Party bid farewell to the city with a bang, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of attendees and the community alike. For nearly two decades, this vibrant festival has been a staple in Chicago’s cultural scene, celebrating art, music, and unity in a melting pot of diversity. As the sun set on the 18th edition of this iconic event, emotions ran high, capturing the essence of what this festival represented.
The Silver Room Block Party has always been more than just a music festival; it has been a symbol of inclusivity and togetherness. Year after year, the festival brought together people from all walks of life, transcending barriers of race, ethnicity, and background. It served as a platform for local artists and musicians to showcase their talents and share their stories, creating a sense of community pride and identity. This year was no different, as the lineup was a beautiful mosaic of genres, reflecting the city’s rich musical heritage.
We spoke to Leslé Honoré and asked her what she will miss most about the Silver Room Block Party “I think I’m going to miss the community most. I’m going to miss this powerful example, year after year, of what Blackness is and what unity is.
“I will miss that narrative changer that goes against what most people say about Chicago, what people say about the South Side and what people say about Black and Brown artists and Black and Brown businesses. Every year we prove them wrong over and over again with community, family, friendship, history and legacy. I’m going to miss planning my summer around this reminder if even in the most difficult of times even with a history of oppression, look at the beauty that we create together. It’s magnificent. I’m going to miss that.” said Honoré
The event sprawled across the lakefront, each section a hub of creativity and expression. Local vendors lined 39th St. beach offering an array of delicious food, art, and crafts, adding a palpable touch of authenticity to the overall experience. Children laughed and played, families bonded, and strangers became friends as they mingled in the festivities. As this years Silver Room Block Party’s theme goes, “Love To The World,” that sentiment held true throughout the entirety of the event.
The Sound System stage was a pulsating heart, beating to the rhythm of the DJs’ passion and the audience’s enthusiasm. 9th Wonder, Tony Humphries and Rich Medina were the perfect trio to brought energy and charisma, leaving the crowd mesmerized with each one of their sets.
The final year of the Silver Room Block Party was a poignant celebration of music, art, and unity. It provided a poignant reminder of the impact that these types of events can have on a community. Though its conclusion marked the end of an era, it left a legacy that will continue to inspire and resonate within Chicago for generations to come. As the sun set on the festival’s final day, it did so with a promise – the spirit of the Silver Room Block Party will live on in the hearts of those who experienced its magic. And in that spirit, the city will continue to dance, celebrate, and come together as one.
