Mayor Scott surprises with command of the turntables
By Ericka Alston Buck
Special to The AFRO
Baltimore City Hall was the epicenter of joy, nostalgia and hometown pride on Oct. 2 as thousands gathered for the farewell performance of Jazzy Summer Nights, a Baltimore cultural staple that has brought music, community and soul to the city for the past 25 years.
Founded in 2000 by LaRian Finney, Jazzy Summer Nights grew from humble beginnings at Hopkins Plaza into one of Baltimore’s most beloved traditions. For a quarter century, it united generations with its mix of jazz, soul and R&B — showcasing national acts, uplifting local artists, and transforming downtown into a vibrant gathering place filled with food trucks, vendors and unforgettable performances.
Over the years, the series welcomed artists like Kindred the Family Soul, Raheem DeVaughn, the Go-Go All Stars featuring The Queens of Go-Go, Lady Alma, and countless others who helped shape its musical legacy. And on Oct. 2, it ended its run with an unforgettable night headlined by none other than Baltimore’s own Dru Hill.
A block-long celebration
As the sun set, the line to enter wrapped around City Hall, a living testament to the impact Jazzy has had on the city. The weather was perfect, spirits were high, and the lawn quickly filled with music lovers eager to witness history.
“It felt like the whole city showed up,” said Angela Thomas, who has attended nearly every season since 2000. “Jazzy Summer Nights has been my first Thursday ritual for 25 years. I can’t believe it’s over, but what a way to go out.”
Mayor on the turntables
In a twist no one expected, Mayor Brandon Scott kicked off the night as the special guest DJ — and he did not disappoint. His full set of old-school Baltimore club music had the crowd dancing before Dru Hill even touched the stage.
“I never thought I’d see my mayor on the turntables,” laughed James Carter, attending with his wife and teenage son. “But he turned the party out! That set was Baltimore through and through.”
Throughout the years, Jazzy Summer Nights has also been fueled by the city’s top DJs who kept the energy alive long after the headliners left the stage. From DJ NO-ID, DJ Kenny K, DJ Keebee, DJ Supreme, DJ Farrah Flosscett, DJ Tanz and DJ Quicksilva, to finale spinners P Drama and DJ Flow, the series has always celebrated Baltimore’s DJ culture as much as its singers.
Honoring the legacy
Longtime mistress of ceremonies and “vibe creator” April Watts kept the energy alive between acts, guiding the crowd through a night that was part concert, part family reunion, and part citywide block party.
In a heartfelt moment, elected officials joined the stage to present Finney and executive producer Derrick Chase with citations and proclamations honoring the cultural and economic impact of Jazzy Summer Nights. One of the most touching recognitions came from Shelley Forbes-Eford, the mother of Downtown Partnership President Shelonda Stokes, who filled the air with what attendees called her “momma spirit” as she presented Finney with his award.
Dru Hill brings it home
When Dru Hill finally took the stage, the crowd erupted. At first, a few members were missing, leaving fans wondering how certain classics would land. But then — to the delight of the audience — original member Jazz appeared, joining the group in a soul-stirring rendition of “Never Make a Promise.”
“It gave me chills,” said Latoya Rivers, a first-time attendee. “I’ve never seen Dru Hill live before, and hearing them do that song with Jazz back on stage — it was everything I hoped for.”
Fan favorite Nokio performed solo hits, and of course, Sisqó closed the show with the inescapable “Thong Song.” As the opening notes played, thousands of voices rose in unison, turning City Hall Plaza into a karaoke moment that only Baltimore could produce.
A night of love and legacy
Former mayors Sheila Dixon and Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, along with Gov. Wes Moore and first lady Dawn Moore, joined LaRian Finney on stage to honor the legacy of Jazzy Summer Nights — a powerful moment that underscored the event’s significance to the city.
“Last night reminded me what I love most about Baltimore,” said Michael Greene, who has been attending since the early 2000s. “It’s the sense of community, the togetherness. Everyone here came to celebrate, to smile, to dance. That’s Jazzy’s legacy.”
Finney’s farewell
When Finney finally took the mic, his voice carried the weight of 25 years of memories, and a heart full of love for the city he holds dear.
“Baltimore, I love you so much. I did my best and gave you my all. I hope I made you proud,” he told the crowd.
“I’ve been coming here since I was in my 20s,” said Denise Hall, clutching her friend’s hand as the crowd began to disperse. “It breaks my heart to see it end, but I know something even greater is coming next.”
That “something” will be revealed in 2026, when Finney promises to launch a new cultural experience destined to become another Baltimore summer tradition.
A citywide standing ovation
As the final notes of Dru Hill’s set echoed off the walls of City Hall, there was no mistaking the emotions in the air — joy, gratitude, nostalgia and pride. Jazzy Summer Nights may have taken its final bow, but its legacy will live on in the hearts of Baltimoreans who danced, laughed and loved together for 25 years.
Or, as longtime attendee Robert Ellis put it best: “Jazzy wasn’t just a concert series. It was Baltimore at its best. And tonight, Baltimore showed up to say ‘Thank you.’”