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Groundwaves Launches GoodWaves Music Festival & Conference in Chicago

The music scene of Chicago is set to witness an extraordinary celebration with the launch of the GoodWaves Music Festival & Conference, organized by Groundwaves. Founded by renowned hip-hop artist MURS in 2018, Groundwaves has significantly impacted the community by elevating artists through mentorship, open mics, and social gatherings. This festival marks the culmination of a year dedicated to fostering creativity and collaboration within the hip-hop landscape.

Scheduled to take place from August 28 to August 30, 2026, the festival will unfold at two prime locations: Venue Six10 and The Salt Shed Fairgrounds. The event is poised to engage the public, offering free admission with prior registration. This inclusive approach ensures that music lovers of all ages can participate in this cultural festivity.

Festival Highlights

On August 30, The Salt Shed Fairgrounds will host a dynamic lineup featuring notable hip-hop artists like Killer Mike, Snow Tha Product, DJ Premier, Rapsody, and Brother Ali, among others. With an exciting array of performances planned, the festival is designed to showcase renowned talents as well as rising stars from the local scene, creating a rich tapestry of musical expression.

The festival offers more than just entertainment; it is a vibrant platform for networking, education, and cultural exchange. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with their favorite artists, gain insights into the industry, and connect with fellow music enthusiasts. The focus on community interaction is a testament to Groundwaves’ commitment to nurturing budding artists and fostering collaboration within the hip-hop community.

Conference Details

Complementing the festival, the GoodWaves Conference will be held on August 28 and 29 at Venue Six10. This segment of the event will feature intimate discussions with industry legends such as Vic Mensa, Styles P, and April Walker, creating an invaluable opportunity for attendees to learn from experienced professionals. Workshops led by established artists like Brother Ali and Phenom will provide practical skills in writing and performance, further enhancing the experience for aspiring artists.

The conference is intentionally limited to 400 attendees to maintain an engaging and interactive setting. Aspiring attendees are encouraged to apply for free access through the festival's official website.

Significance of GoodWaves

Groundwaves was established with a vision to create authentic spaces where artists can thrive, regardless of their career stage. The movement has previously made its mark in cities such as Fort Collins and Denver, and the 2026 event in Chicago represents its most ambitious effort yet. MURS expressed his excitement about partnering with Good Chaos, a creative studio that shares the same mission of uplifting communities through arts and culture.

This partnership emphasizes the importance of building a supportive ecosystem for artists and creative thinkers in Chicago, a city rich in musical heritage. Groundwaves aims to position Chicago as a premier destination for artist discovery and collaboration.

MURS shared his vision, stating, "GoodWaves is what I always dreamed my Paid Dues festival would evolve into. The event will platform some of the best performers in the nation along with a-list talent from Chicago."

Join the Celebration!

Whether you're an artist, music enthusiast, or simply someone looking to experience the vibrant culture of hip-hop, the GoodWaves Music Festival & Conference is an event not to be missed. Registration is required for both the festival and conference, so be sure to secure your place in this exciting celebration of community and creativity.

To register and find more information about the festival, visit www.goodwavesfestival.com.

Event Summary

• - GoodWaves Music Festival: August 30, 2026, at The Salt Shed Fairgrounds, Chicago, IL (Free admission, registration required)
• - GoodWaves Conference: August 28-29, 2026, at Venue Six10, Chicago, IL (Free admission with limited capacity, application required)

About Groundwaves

Groundwaves is a hip-hop community initiative led by MURS, designed to support the growth of artists through meaningful connections and creative opportunities. Learn more at www.groundwaveshiphop.com.

About Good Chaos

Good Chaos is a creative studio in Chicago committed to empowering artists and fostering cultural movements that generate lasting impact. More information is available at www.goodchaos.com.