One Philly: Unity Concert for America RECAP
Philadelphia and Roc Nation Live delivered one of the country's largest Independence Day celebrations on July 4 as One Philly: Unity Concert for America brought together a large crowd of celebrants from near and far on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for a historic evening of music, culture, and community in honor of America's 250th anniversary.
Produced by Roc Nation Live, the free concert featured unforgettable performances from Will Smith, The Roots, Jill Scott, Jordan Davis, Meek Mill, Seal, State Property, Kathy Sledge, Infinity Song, Tierra Whack with Wanda Sykes serving as host throughout the evening.
The historic event transformed the Benjamin Franklin Parkway into a citywide celebration, featuring immersive fan activations spotlighting Philadelphia neighborhoods, surprise collaborations, greetings to the public by Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and performances spanning R&B, pop, country, gospel, and soul, ending with a brilliant fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Among the night's standout moments, Seal had the crowd swaying to his classics, “Kiss From a Rose” and “Fly Like an Eagle.” Jordan Davis brought the country to Philly with “Turn This Truck Around” and “Buy Dirt.” “Philadelphia’s own Jill Scott brought the hometown crowd to its feet with "Golden,” “Long Walk” and "Norf Side," bringing out Tierra Whack as a surprise guest performer.
Severe thunderstorms following Jill Scott’s performance resulted in a nearly three-hour weather delay. The concert resumed around midnight with a performance by Philadelphia native DJ Aktive, whose set brought attendees back together and reignited the energy of the celebration. Following welcome-back remarks from the Mayor, The Roots took the stage, opening with "Here I Come" and a special rendition of "Jungle Boogie/Soul Makossa." Throughout the performance, The Roots were joined by Kathy Sledge, State Property, Meek Mill, and Will Smith with DJ Jazzy Jeff, who performed fan favorites including "He's the Greatest Dancer," "Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop," "Dreams and Nightmares," and "Summertime"!