Memphis was ablaze with energy as the 2025 RiverBeat Music Festival kicked off, showcasing an unforgettable lineup featuring hip-hop legends Missy Elliott, Ludacris, and Busta Rhymes. The festival, held at Tom Lee Park, attracted enthusiastic crowds eager for a night filled with pulsating beats and electrifying performances.
Busta Rhymes opened the night with an explosive 40-minute set that was anything but ordinary. Joined by his longtime collaborator MC Spliff Star, the duo captivated the audience with their vibrant chemistry and comedic banter. Clad in matching red and white suits, they delivered rapid-fire verses while rolling through hits like “Just Make It Clap” and “Do It To Me.” At one point, Rhymes playfully declared, “This don’t even feel like a concert; this feels like a house party,” further engaging the ecstatic crowd.
As Busta wrapped up, fans swiftly made their way to the Bud Light Stage, eager to catch Ludacris. Sporting a Vince Carter throwback Grizzlies jersey, Ludacris unleashed a 20-song set that celebrated his illustrious career spanning over two decades. The Atlanta rapper’s performance was a whirlwind of nostalgia, featuring a medley of his greatest hits and collaborations, marking a triumphant return to the spotlight.
The night crescendoed with Missy Elliott taking the stage, following a much-anticipated performance at Coachella. Her set was a visual and auditory spectacle, blending sci-fi themes, elaborate dance numbers, and stunning pyrotechnics. Over the course of 70 minutes, she delivered fan-favorites such as “Cool Off,” “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly),” and “Work It,” leaving the audience in a daze of excitement. The overall production was a testament to her artistry, creating a captivating experience that perfectly capped off an exhilarating opening night at RiverBeat.
With performances that ranged from high-energy to mind-bending, the festival’s launch night not only delighted hip-hop fans but also solidified the event as a must-see gathering for music lovers everywhere. As the crowd buzzed with excitement, it was clear that Memphis had witnessed a historic celebration of hip-hop culture.
