Monáe on the River
This fall, the Ohio River will host a musical event of unprecedented scale. From October 8–12, 2025, America’s River Roots Festival will transform the Cincinnati, Covington, and Newport riverfronts into a five-day celebration of music, culture, and history. With more than 100 acts across eight stages, the festival is set to become the largest music gathering ever staged along the Ohio.
At the center of the festival’s main stage is Janelle Monáe, who will headline Thursday, October 9. Her presence signals the importance of this inaugural event. Monáe has built a career as a musical innovator, drawing on funk, soul, R&B, pop, and Afrofuturist storytelling. She is known for songs such as Tightrope, Make Me Feel, and PYNK, each marked by bold artistry and cultural impact. Monáe’s performances are renowned for their energy and vision, making her an ideal artist to launch River Roots.
A Lineup That Reflects America’s Musical Diversity
The weekend lineup showcases a wide range of talent. Indie-rock band Mt. Joy, alternative legends Weezer, country star Maren Morris, and chart-topper Walker Hayes join Monáe as headline performers. Each brings a distinct sound that highlights the festival’s dedication to celebrating the breadth of American music.
Eight themed stages will connect audiences with the traditions that have shaped the nation’s soundscape. The Sawyer Point Stage will focus on gospel and cultural rhythms. The Schmidlapp Stage will highlight jazz and gospel. The Freedom Center Stage will feature R&B and blues. The Covington Stage will bring bluegrass, country, and Americana. The Newport Stage will spotlight southern rock and blues. The Yeatmans Cove Stage will host cross-genre performances, and the Public Landing Stage will give a platform to regional talent.
Experiences Beyond the Music
River Roots is designed to be more than a series of concerts. Festivalgoers will be able to take part in 180 themed riverboat cruises, explore Kentucky bourbon tastings in Newport, and enjoy the Craft Brewmaster Experience in Smale Park. The Freedom Journey and Riverwalk apps will offer cultural storytelling tied to the riverfront, while the Good N’ Rooted artisan bazaar on the Purple People Bridge will showcase local makers.
Together, these experiences position River Roots as a cultural celebration that combines music, history, and community in one setting.
Monáe’s appearance at River Roots underscores the festival’s ambition. She is one of the most important artists of her generation, recognized not only for her Grammy-nominated albums but also for her contributions to film, activism, and style. Her work addresses themes of freedom, identity, and equality, making her participation especially meaningful in a festival tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary.
By opening the headline series, Monáe connects the legacy of American music with its evolving future. Her artistry reflects the innovation and resilience that define the country’s cultural story, which makes her performance one of the most anticipated moments of the event.
With its combination of world-class headliners, regional stages, and cultural experiences, America’s River Roots Festival is set to become a defining tradition for Greater Cincinnati. The presence of Janelle Monáe ensures that the festival will open with a performance that is both musically powerful and culturally significant.
Tickets for main stage performances are available at americasriverroots.frontgatetickets.com. For more information and to explore the growing lineup, visit www.AmericasRiverRoots.com.