Journey 
Scrolled Instagram lately? Suffering from FOMO? If you weren’t at True Star’s fourth annual ‘From the Go Fest’ on Saturday, July 27th, you missed a treat. Hosted by Danny Barksdale and MJ Hill, the From the ‘Go Fest was a day filled with music from local rappers and singers as well as special performances from Vic Mensa and artists from Showtime’s hit series “The Chi,” Genesis Denise Hale and Amari Noelle.
Presented by Metropolitan Peace Initiatives and Communities Partnering 4 Peace, this event was catered directly to teens and young adults. From the ‘Go was meant to bring Chicago creatives and community members together for an unforgettable experience, to have a great time, network, grab some food, and, in my opinion, eat some of the best Italian ice and lemonade. FTG, also sponsored by BMOA, Adobe, Acclivus, Sparkling Ice, and DRW, is meant to serve as an example that events don’t have to result in violence or be centered around it. This festival promotes peace during what is considered to be the most violent yet beautiful time of the year in the city – Summertime Chi.
Other artists that got the crowd hyped included Papa Jay and 16-year-old rapper Star Banz, who also did a meet and greet at the True Star Lounge. There was even a surprise performance by “The Chi” star Shamon Brown Jr. True Star’s very own family of artists – Sharmon Jarmon!, Wingless Angel, Hex Hectic, and Z Saj – also showed off their skills.
Attendees enjoyed good food, good music, dancing, double dutch, games, photo opps, and products from Black entrepreneurs in the Vendor Village. A voter registration desk was even provided for everyone who wants to make their vote count on Nov. 4th.
The people-watching at the fest was good too. Chicago-based designer, Woo Bosco, considered his festival outfit – a reversible North Face vest from Ross, plaid/denim patchwork pants made by him, and a pair of futuristic boots – to be “fresh on a budget.” Bosco’s first time hearing about the fest was through a fellow creative, and he was glad he came. “I’m just proud to see youth having a great time without violence,” he said.
True Star Media Co-founder Na-Tae’ Thompson was please with how the festival turned out. “Continuing with our 20 year celebration, True Star showed up and showed out at the 2024 ‘Go Fest! I’m so proud to help provide a safe creative space for Chicago youth to shine.”
Well, you heard it here folks, if you were at From the ‘Go, let us know what you enjoyed the most about this year’s festival! And if you didn’t come, let this be your sign to come out next year.
To see more photos and video from the fourth annual From the ‘Go Fest visit us on Instagram.
By Journey Powell, Junior, Spelman College
Instagram: journeyaliah
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