VIP Records is hosting its inaugural World Famous Block Party: Juneteenth Edition on Saturday, June 20. Hosted in Downtown Long Beach, the block party honors Black music, entrepreneurship and community.
The theme “Celebrate Freedom Through Black Music,” will serve as a celebration and recognition of Black artists and innovators’ impact on American culture. Visitors will be able to revel in community while enjoying live music, food vendors and cultural pop-ups, as well as a kids’ play zone.
Guests can RSVP for free, with the option to upgrade to the VIP experience for access to the exclusive viewing area, lounge access, meet-and-greet opportunities and more. VIP tickets, priced at $125, also serve as a fundraising component that supports the VIP Family Foundation in giving back to society through community programs and educational initiatives.
“This year marks our first major Juneteenth-focused edition in downtown Long Beach and our most ambitious production to date,” said Tenisha Anderson Laux, President and CEO of World Famous VIP Records and the VIP Family Foundation.
The World Famous Block Party was created to celebrate and preserve the legacy of World Famous VIP Records, a record store founded in Los Angeles in 1967, before making its way to Long Beach in 1978.
VIP Records is a central part of the Long Beach music scene, being the birthplace of G-funk and the recording spot for the 213 musical trio Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg and Warren G.
The VIP main stage will be hosted by Ricky Ruckus and feature musical acts such as DJ Battlecat, The Gumbo Brothers and Emi Secrest. The LBC Park Jam stage will be hosted by Medusa and includes various DJs, Lancia, Hmxdon and Kali Madden.
The Juneteenth version of VIP’s block parties will differ from previous festivals they’ve hosted by having a larger footprint in the Downtown Promenade, incorporating historical and educational components on Black music and garnering greater involvement from community organizations.
“We want people to leave feeling proud of where they come from, connected to their community, and inspired by the power of Black music and culture,” said Anderson Laux.
VIP fosters connection within the Black community as it is one of the sponsors for Juneteenth at King Park, a celebration of resistance, art and history. The events coinciding on Saturday maximizes the celebratory joy and provides optimal opportunities for learning.
For those who wish to attend both events, the City of Long Beach will be providing transportation between the block party and Juneteenth at MLK Park via Long Beach Transit shuttles. Pickups are located at the Edison Theatre (213 E. Broadway).
The celebration continues from 8 p.m. to midnight with an afterparty at the Edison Theatre in collaboration with Good Luck Vinyl Club. The party features live performances, drinks and commemorates the legacy of DJ Battlecat in the music scene.
“The World Famous Block Party is our way of bringing the spirit of VIP Records into the streets of Long Beach,” said Anderson Laux. “For nearly 60 years, V.I.P. has connected people through music, culture, and community. This event celebrates that legacy while creating opportunities for the next generation.”
The World Famous Block Party: Juneteenth Edition will take place at Promenade Square Park (215 E. First St.) this Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. Clear bags are a requirement. The event is free for all, but it is highly recommended to RSVP here.
Christine Nader
Reporter
Christine Nader is a journalist with aspirations in community, music, and entertainment stories. She has ample experience in creating videos, social media posts, and other various forms of multimedia content. She wields the skill of reaching younger audiences through relatability, and presents a positive and determined attitude in all professional environments. In her spare time, you can find her at a concert, or in a movie theater.
