RVA’s hip hop scene is bursting at the seams with fresh and seasoned hip hop artists, but it’s not often the city gets a chance to see and hear all of that local talent in one place showcasing what they do best.
RVA’s hip hop scene is bursting at the seams with fresh and seasoned hip hop artists, but it’s not often the city gets a chance to see and hear all of that local talent in one place showcasing what they do best.
That’s where Epic Fest comes in. An annual hip-hop fest held across various venues each year in Richmond, showcasing artists from around Virginia. It’s a chance to discover new, underground musicians, and see your favorite emcees perform your favorite tracks.
Epic Fest has become a staple in the hip hop community and now in its sixth year, local promoter SlapdashRVA will bring us a four-day event across three venues with over 40 acts including Peter $un, Tim Porter, Chance Fischer, Dr. Millionaire and more. This year’s festival will be held June 15th to June 18th, with performances at Gallery5, Strange Matter, an Epic Fest Party at Palazzio on East Main Street and The Top RVA in Shockoe Bottom.
“When we first started Epic Fest, it was more than an event for us, it was how we view our city,” said Octavion X, who launched the hip hop showcase with Cain McCoy in 2011.
From an entertainment standpoint, Epic Fest provides an area of nothing but positive energy and an essence of creativity.
“Epic Fest gives the artist a platform to perform in front of a Richmond crowd,” said Octavion.
Due to the festival’s success, Epic Fest has grown beyond just local attendees according to Octavion.
“We have a lot of people who commute and show us support from other cities and other states, but it’s based here in Richmond and it gives the people of Richmond and like-minded people of the culture and the taste the opportunity to get an idea of the people we think are special,” he said.
Well-known RVA hip hop artist, radio show host, and past Epic Fest performer Black Liquid described the atmosphere at Epic Fest as a place filled with nothing but love.
“With everyone being so engaged with the artist the stage becomes bigger and artists go harder, so they can leave an impression on people,” he said.
The artist feels very strongly about the work Slapdash has put in over the years to continue to grow and manifest the festival.
“We need events like Epic Fest to be reminded that we are part of something so much bigger than we often imagine,” he said. “We need to have the knowledge to know that the success we see other cities and markets experience is attainable, as long as we are willing to work for it.”
Epic Fest VI will take place June 15th-18th at Gallery5, Strange Matter, and The Top RVA in Shockoe Bottom .Check out the entire lineup for the festival here. Tickets are priced per event and range from $10 to $20 and you can purchase yours here. Be on the lookout for a review of the show.
