Memphis Hosts Riverbeat Music Festival 2025

Crowd enjoying the Riverbeat Music Festival in Tom Lee Park at night.

News Summary

The Riverbeat Music Festival kicked off in Memphis on May 2, 2025, featuring performances from hip-hop legends like Busta Rhymes, Ludacris, and Missy Elliott. The festival, taking place over three days at Tom Lee Park, is celebrated as the largest in the Mid-South, showcasing a diverse lineup of artists while promoting Memphis’s rich music culture.

Memphis hosted the highly anticipated Riverbeat Music Festival, commencing on May 2, 2025, and marking its second three-day event in the city. The festival unfolded at Tom Lee Park, attracting hundreds of music enthusiasts eager to enjoy performances by renowned artists from various genres, primarily celebrating hip-hop.

On the inaugural night, festival-goers witnessed exhilarating performances by hip-hop legends including Busta Rhymes, Ludacris, and Missy Elliott. Busta Rhymes kicked off the night with a 40-minute set characterized by high-energy renditions of hits like “Just Make It Clap” and “Do It To Me.” His performance was visually striking, as he donned a striking red and white suit, engaging the audience effectively throughout the show. Following Rhymes, Ludacris took the stage, performing a staggering 20 songs and celebrating the milestone of 25 years since the release of his debut album, “Incognegro.” In a nod to Memphis culture, Ludacris sported a Vince Carter throwback Grizzlies uniform during his performance.

The excitement continued as the audience seamlessly transitioned from Busta Rhymes to Ludacris, culminating in Missy Elliott’s highly anticipated show. Elliott’s performance lasted 70 minutes and showcased a brilliantly crafted futuristic stage production complete with dazzling pyrotechnics. Her setlist included iconic tracks such as “Cool Off,” “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly),” and “Work It.” This electrifying closing act left festival-goers buzzing with enthusiasm as the first day concluded.

The Riverbeat Music Festival is being hailed as the largest music festival in the Mid-South, and it promises an impressive array of other notable acts throughout its duration. The lineup features performances from renowned artists including Public Enemy, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Steve Aoki, and Al Kapone. Each day of the festival brings its own unique lineup, with Missy Elliott headlining Friday’s events, The Killers scheduled for Saturday, and Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals rounding off the festival on Sunday.

General admission tickets for the three-day festival were priced at $199, while VIP tickets, offering enhanced access and amenities, were available for $849. With such an extensive lineup and engaging entertainment options, the festival presents a vibrant gathering for music lovers of all ages and tastes. The blend of classic and contemporary performances ensures a diverse experience that highlights the cultural significance of hip-hop and other genres.

Riverbeat Music Festival not only brings together a lineup of acclaimed artists but also showcases the rich music scene that Memphis is famous for, solidifying its reputation as a notable destination for festivals. The event encapsulates a celebration of music and culture, potentially leaving a lasting impression on all those who attend.