By Tihut Tamrat, Contributing Writer
Waterfront Park transformed into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community this past weekend as Blanket Sounds brought hundreds together for a soulful afternoon of live performances, DJ sets, and local creativity—all in honor of Black Music Month.
Curated by Loren Cobbs, founder of Blanket Sounds and SD Melanin – a community driven organization that redefines Black entertainment spaces – the free outdoor event was a full-sensory experience grounded in the power of Black music and rooted in Cobbs’ mission to create intentional, joyful spaces for San Diego’s Black community, supported by the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation.
“This is about celebration, about connection, and about reclaiming space in the heart of the city,” Cobbs said, watching families spread picnic blankets and friend groups dance under the sun. “Black Music Month is the perfect time to do that.”
With the downtown skyline as its backdrop, the event pulsed with energy from the moment it kicked off. Local artists, such as JB Saxx, took the stage with electrifying sets, while DJ Cowbell Chris kept the rhythm steady between acts, spinning everything from soulful classics to high-energy Afrobeats. The seamless blend of genres was a reminder of the rich, evolving legacy of Black music—and how it continues to influence every corner of sound today.
But Blanket Sounds was more than a concert—it was a cultural gathering. Kids painted and played in the dedicated art zone, while vendor booths showcased Black-owned businesses selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to plant-based eats. The crowd moved freely between lounging on the grass and dancing in the aisles, united by a shared sense of community and celebration.
As the sun dipped lower and the basslines echoed into the evening, it was clear that Blanket Sounds had struck the right chord. Not just a festival, but a feeling—one that lingered long after the last beat dropped.
Blanket Sounds is part of a seasonal series that will continue through the summer, with upcoming dates scheduled for July 20, August 24, and September 21 so bring your blanket, your people, and your joy, the vibes will be waiting!
