Fest delivers on community, culture, and music
On Saturday, September 14, the streets of St. Paul were alive with rhythm, laughter, and the unmistakable sounds of jazz as the Selby Jazz Fest took center stage. Despite a brief rain scare earlier in the day, the inclement weather did little to deter jazz lovers from flocking to the event, showcasing the resilient spirit of the community. As the evening approached, the atmosphere thickened with excitement, culminating in an unforgettable performance by headlining artist Jamecia Bennett.
From the moment attendees walked onto the festival grounds, they were greeted by the aromatic blend of catfish, barbecue, and chicken wings that wafted through the air, inviting visitors to indulge in the delicious offerings from local vendors. The vibrant smell of culinary delights was just the beginning of the full sensory experience that the Selby Jazz Fest promised. Attendees found themselves entertained by the music and were treated to an array of flavors that highlighted the local food culture.
A changing of the guard
Marie Flowers, Director of Student Services and Outreach at Walker West explained that the festival is changing hands after many years. She surmised the day and the threat of rain earlier.
“No, the light rain did not scare us. Not at all! We feel this was a perfect day and are grateful. Our mayor Melvin Carter proclaimed it to be Selby Jazz Fest Day,” she began.
“Under the direction of Michael and Stephanie Wright, we at Walker West Music Academy helped make it happen. We’re grateful for all the vendors and supporters. For the Wrights, who have done a fantastic job of keeping this going all these years, we just want to build upon the legacy they built. The Wrights started this and ushered Walker West Music Academy into it.”
A consistent theme of community accolades
The festival was designed for everyone, making it a genuinely all-age celebration. As families strolled through the event, children delighted in specialty drinks and snow cones, their laughter punctuating the music that filled the streets. The presence of the Rondo Double Dutch Team captivated the younger audience, with kids and adults eagerly showcasing their rope-jumping skills. Such inclusivity was a hallmark of the Selby Jazz Fest, as it created an environment where people of all ages could engage and enjoy themselves together.
“When we started this group, we were doing here and their activities throughout the neighborhood; from there, we started Hump Day, Jump Day,” says the woman known as The Twist Master. She is joined by Ms. Mercedes as cofounder of the Double Dutch group.
Rena Moran, Ramsey County Commissioner, District 4, home of the historic Rondo Community, shared her feelings on the fest and was another not deterred by the rain. “The Jazz Fest is just a moment for us to come together, celebrate our culture, meet and greet our neighbors, and have a good time, in kind of an old fashion way, where we meet, get together, and have a big block party. I love it! And the rain did not scare me; I wait every year for this moment. And it’s so good to be here.”
Tracey Williams-Dillard, publisher and CEO of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, observed, “The fest is a success. Although the threat of rain may have affected attendance, I see that people love the community gathering, including people from Minneapolis and St. Paul. This is a wonderful community event.”
Even St. Paul police were enjoying themselves.: “It’s a beautiful day with lots of wonderful people out here,” said Officer Neil Anderson, “This is my first time working at the Jazz Fest; the vibe is great, and we’re here recruiting.”
As the sun set, headliner Bennett took the stage, electrifying the crowd with her powerful voice and soulful performance. Known for her ability to infuse contemporary twists into classic gospel, soul, and jazz, Bennett’s music resonated with both young and old, bridging generational gaps and drawing everyone closer to the stage. Spectators lined the streets on both sides, fully immersing themselves in the experience as every note mingled with the warm evening air.
Beyond the musical entertainment, the festival showcased local artists and vendors, allowing them to reach a wider audience and share their talents. The marketplace was teeming with creativity, as artisans displayed handmade crafts, jewelry, and artwork inspired by the rich cultural talents of the local area. Each booth told a story, contributing to the festival’s overall narrative of community celebration.
Coach Keith from Ujaama Place said, “This festival means a good time—family, community, getting to know one another, the different organizations and what they do in the community; this is a great way to get our information out there. At Ujamaa Place, if you know an African American male 18-30 years old who needs help rebuilding his life, send him our way.”
Joe Mueller, head of Friends School of Minnesota, was also at the fest as an informational vendor. “I love being in this community where we once lived. This is an event we would have never missed. We love exposing the school to this community—especially.”
Ultimately, the Selby Jazz Fest left a mark on all who attended. It served as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together, transcending differences and creating shared experiences. As the evening ended and the last music echoes faded into the night, attendees left with full hearts, bellies, and cherished memories of a day well spent.
The Selby Jazz Fest stands as a beacon of what community means—a celebration of culture, unity, and the love of music that binds people together. As fest attendees looked forward to next year’s event, it was clear that the spirit of jazz and community would continue to resonate long after the final note was played.
See photos below by Steve Floyd.
