Today’s the day, Richmond. The city is already sizzling, and 804 Day is back to turn it up a notch. Now in its second year, this free-for-all celebration is the biggest independent Richmond music block party of the year, bringing together a stellar lineup of local music heroes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into the local scene, 804 Day is the perfect way to vibe out and discover what’s happening in the Richmond music landscape – headlined by one of our favorite rappers, Nickelus F.
Starting at 4 p.m. and rolling until 9 p.m., the 17th Street Market and its surrounding streets will morph into a vibrant festival ground. Imagine this: three stages, over 15 bands, and genres spanning pop, rock, R&B, jazz, folk, and country, all converging in one epic event.
Last year’s crowd of 5,000 was just a warm-up. This year, the party is set to be even bigger and bolder. “Richmond is full of music lovers, and our indie talent is the heart and soul of 804 Day,” says Reese Williams of Shockoe Records. “We’ve curated a lineup that embodies the vibrant culture and community spirit of our region.”
Here’s a taste of the lineup, showcasing the diverse sonic landscape of Richmond with links to our past interviews when available:
Ant The Symbol (Producer / DJ) | @antthesymbol
A few years ago, Ant The Symbol dropped I Know Who I Am, a genre-blending masterpiece featuring local RVA talents. His intricate production and smart collaborations crafted an album that resonates deeply. From hip-hop beats to soulful melodies, Ant creates a sonic journey that feels both familiar and fresh. Read more HERE
Dead Billionaires (Punk) | @deadbillionaires
Warren Campbell leads Dead Billionaires in a riotous rock assault. Their self-titled EP is a whirlwind of punk energy and singalong choruses, capturing Richmond’s underground spirit. With a rotating lineup that fuels their communal vibe, Dead Billionaires’ live shows are where their true power lies. Read more HERE
Erin and the Wildfire (Pop) | @erinandthewildfire
Erin & The Wildfire’s sound is a delicious blend of old-school funk, indie-pop, and soul. Their debut Thirst delivers funky riffs and groovy basslines, while Touchy Feely adds synth-pop layers and 80s beats. Erin Lunsford’s vocals soar, making each track a vibrant exploration of genre. Read more HERE
Flight Club (Rock) | @flightclubrva
Flight Club’s “tru rok” melds Foo Fighters’ grit with Four Year Strong’s pop-punk bounce. Their aggressive riffs and infectious hooks invite both headbanging and reflection. It’s rock music designed to make you move and think, a perfect storm of energy and introspection. Read more HERE
Høly River (Folk) | @holyrivermusic
Høly River crafts a mystical blend of freak-folk and trance-like drones. Their sound, steeped in Appalachian and Scandinavian traditions, features acoustic guitars, fretted strings, and harmonium. It’s earthy and atmospheric, perfect for both festival fields and intimate venues, evoking deep connections to nature and spirit. Read more HERE
Kadencia (Latin) | @kadenciapr
Kadencia ignites the scene with Bomba, Plena, and Salsa rhythms, infused with Afro-Cuban beats. Their original songs dive deep into their Puerto Rican culture and history, creating a powerful and infectious groove. It’s music that moves both your feet and your soul.
Knifing Around (Punk Dance) | @knifingaroundband
Knifing Around merges punk rock’s edge with danceable beats, channeling influences from LCD Soundsystem to Bauhaus. Their high-energy shows and unique sound tackle gentrification, government, and 21st-century relationships. Their latest release Don’t Stab Your Hand cuts straight to the core of contemporary life.
Los Hermanos Alacranes (Rock/Latin) | @lhalacranes
Los Hermanos Alacranes infuse their music with vibrant storytelling and infectious grooves, blending English and Spanish lyrics. Influenced by The Mavericks and Los Lobos, their sound transports listeners to Mexico, Havana, Medellín, and the American Southwest. It’s a sonic journey you won’t forget.
Nickelus F (Rap) | @nickelusf
Nickelus F’s latest MMCHT is a lyrical tour de force, blending introspective storytelling with technical rap prowess. His music dives deep into cultural and existential themes, delivering profound insights and setting a new standard for lyrical excellence in hip-hop. Read more HERE
Niiasii (R&B) | @niiasii
Niiasii’s music fuses soulful modernity with deeply personal lyrics. Tracks like “I Wanna Get Out” showcase her transformative stage presence. Inspired by legends like Prince and Erykah Badu, Niiasii aims to create music that’s both impactful and enduring, connecting deeply with listeners.
Palmyra (Bluegrass) | @palmyratheband
Palmyra’s fusion of folk, Americana, and bluegrass features introspective lyrics and intricate arrangements. Influenced by the Avett Brothers and Punch Brothers, their harmonies and versatile instrumentation explore themes of nature, mental health, and personal growth, creating a sound that’s both traditional and contemporary. Read more HERE
Rein (Rock) | @rein.radio
Jordan Reinecke, aka REIN, crafts pop and top 40 hits with a creative twist. His journey from band member to solo artist is reflected in catchy hooks and profound lyrics, like those in “Evermore.” REIN’s music is a testament to his innovative spirit and musical evolution. Read more HERE
Sugar Hollows (Country) | @thesugarhollows
The Sugar Hollows, a folk-rock trio from Richmond, blend Americana-rock melodies with soulful lyrics. Their single “No Good” explores self-sabotage and resilience, contrasting with the reflective “Follow The River.” Known for dynamic live performances, they offer a sweet, musical escape for listeners.
Sweet Potatoes (Jazz) | @sweetpotatoesmusic
Sweet Potatoes deliver smooth jazz with sophisticated sounds and intricate compositions. Founded by Johnny Hargrove, this ensemble features Reyna Pannell on violin and vocals, Stephon Larue on drums, and Brian Cruse on bass. Perfect for a refined, laid-back listening experience.
VEXINE (Rock) | @vexinerva
VEXINE blends rock and roll attitude with country soul. Fronted by Sarah Frances Santamaria, their music is described as “retro future rock” and “lounge rock noir.” With three acclaimed albums, VEXINE’s sultry, bodacious sound continues to captivate and excite.
Weekend Plans (R&B) | @weekendplansmusic
Weekend Plans, an eight-piece band from Richmond, melds funk, hip-hop, jazz, and soul. Their debut album State of Nine showcased their eclectic sound. With members like Kayen Wilborn and Logos The Poetic, their latest tracks illustrate a dynamic sonic evolution, captivating audiences since 2016.
Weldon Hill (Jazz) | @w.weldonhill
Weldon Hill, a Richmond musicologist, composer, and pianist, blends jazz and classical influences. Performing with legends like Jon Faddis and Benny Carter, his piano trio collaborates with artists like Donald Harrison and Veronica Swift. Hill’s work spans from the Virginia Symphony Jazz Orchestra to the Great American Music Ensemble.
But the music is just the beginning. The festival will also feature a vibrant marketplace with 40 local vendors and artists, 20 nonprofits, and a Kids’ Zone packed with activities for the little ones. Local performing arts groups will keep the vibe alive as emcees throughout the day.
Richmond’s 804 Day is more than just a festival; it’s a party of the city’s eclectic culture and indie spirit. Come for the music, stay for the community.
PHOTOS FROM 804 DAY 2023 by Dave Parrish
