The annual holiday of Juneteenth marks the historic date of June 19, 1865, when the last of the enslaved Black people in the United States finally learned of their freedom—a full two and a half years after the official signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. The activities planned for the Del Mar Fair serve a dual purpose. They honor this significant anniversary, marking the true abolition of slavery, and celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans since emancipation. Festivities include performances by Blues man Lenny Fuzzy Rankin and solo jazz guitarist and singer Elliot Lawrence. Guests can enjoy line dancing with San Diego’s own ERRRVERYBODi Line Dancers, as well as drumming and dancing by the Worldbeat Center African Drummers & Dancers. There will also be music from DJ Kool T and spoken word performances by host Kendrick Dial. In the spirit of the holiday, visitors will have the opportunity to support small businesses with an exciting variety of vendors.
Elliott Lawrence:
Elliott Lawrence is an accomplished Broadway artist turned solo jazz guitarist and singer, delivering exceptional musical experiences with a repertoire of over 2,000 songs. His genres span classic and smooth jazz, The Great American Songbook, Latin, Yacht Rock, Country, Reggae, and Blues. Elliott’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres ensures every event is uniquely tailored to the audience’s preferences.
ERRRVERYBODi Line
Dancers:
In the summer of 2009, Patricia Murray—motivated
by her passion for both teaching and dance—gathered a small group of women who
shared her enthusiasm for fun, fellowship, and physical activity. Together,
they set out to elevate their line dancing skills, aiming to move well beyond
basic routines like "The Electric Slide" and embrace a more dynamic
approach summed up by their motto: "Go Hard or Go Home." This
dedicated group, including Iris Payne, Vera Mooring, and Pat Williams, met regularly
to master a diverse range of classic and contemporary dances.
Lenny “Fuzzy” Rankins:
Lenny "Fuzzy" Rankins—the talented musician whose lively performances and engaging stage presence make every event unforgettable—you are guaranteed a great time. Whether it's his exciting musical challenges or the friendly atmosphere he creates, Fuzzy ensures that everyone walks away with lasting memories and smiles.
Terry “Kool T” Spears:
Kool T began DJing in 1979, quickly becoming a favorite for house parties, high school dances, fashion shows, weddings, and fundraisers. As his popularity grew, promoters and club owners were drawn to his ability to energize crowds, which led to opportunities at larger venues and radio station beach parties. This exposure paved the way for performances at mainstream clubs, skating rinks, and events such as those at the Polinski Center and City College.
Kendrick Dial:
Kendrick Dial, artistically known as Mr. Lyrical Groove, is a multidisciplinary artist, spoken word poet, and the front man of The Lyrical Groove—recipients of the San Diego Music Award for Best Hip-Hop Album—celebrated for their dynamic performances and socially conscious lyrics. With experience as a Navy veteran, creative & executive coach, and leadership trainer, Kendrick brings a distinctive blend of structure and soul to his work. Drawing from his personal experiences and cultural insights, Kendrick’s poetry and music will illuminate the historical and contemporary importance of Juneteenth, fostering a deeper appreciation for its legacy. As our host for the day, Kendrick will weave poetry and spoken word into the program to help us understand the significance of the Juneteenth holiday.
World Beat’s African Drummers and Dancers Ensemble Featuring Master Drummer Dramane Koné:
Master drummer Dramane Koné carries forward the ancestral music of West Africa, performing traditions passed down through generations of his family. A griot of the renowned Koné lineage of Burkina Faso and Mali, Dramane embodies the Djeli heritage—musician, storyteller, historian, and keeper of cultural memory.