MEMPHIS, Tenn — On Tuesday, a news release from Forward Momentum announced the name of Memphis's newest music festival.
In October, Memphis River Parks Partnership announced they signed a deal with the producers of the Mempho Music Festival, Forward Momentum, to host a new music festival in May 2024 at Tom Lee Park.
The Riverbeat Music Festival, a three-day event, will take place at Tom Lee Park on May 3-5, 2024. It is not related to Forward Momentum's "Mempho Fest," a separate festival held in October.
"Tom Lee Park will become home to a new three-day music festival aimed at attracting Memphians and out-of-town music lovers to the city," the October announcement from Memphis River Parks said.
According to Forward Momentum, following the success of the Mempho Music Festival, they have been securing major music talent for RiverBeat Music Festival, and the lineup and ticket information is expected to be announced in early 2024.
The October announcement of a new festival came a day after Memphis in May event organizers announced the 2024 Beale Street Music Festival will be paused and will not take place. They attributed this decision to high renovation bills and record-low attendance figures.
“We are excited to partner with Forward Momentum to make sure that our rich tradition of music in Memphis continues," said Carol Coletta, president, Memphis River Parks Partnership. "Finding a partner to fill that important May slot that is so important to our local businesses, and our tourism industry was a priority for us.”
Jeff Bransford of Forward Momentum said music is deeply connected to the Memphis community.
"We aim to continue this rich legacy and history by introducing a feature destination event, with major acts and broad appeal, that will keep visitors coming back year after year,” he said.
Tom Lee Park was designed to host big music events and to function as a park for Memphians year-round. The Riverbeat Music Festival will dramatically reduce the number of days the park is closed to the public, as it will be closed no more than 13 days, which compares to the 36 days the park was closed this year, according to the October announcement.
“Having Forward Momentum step up to claim that critical May weekend is more confirmation that our investment in Memphis’ riverfront has created a year-round attraction for tourists and locals alike," Paul Young, president of the Downtown Memphis Commission and Mayor-elect, said. "I’m excited about this new development and can’t wait to see what is next!”