The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation invite residents and friends to kick off the summer season at Rhythm & Blues by the Brook. The fun-filled afternoon event returns to Cedar Brook Park in Plainfield on Saturday, June 7th, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
“There’s nothing like Rhythm & Blues by the Brook to kick off the summer in Union County. It’s a celebration of music, culture, and community—and every year, it brings people together in such a powerful way,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “From legendary artists to family-friendly fun, this event has something for everyone. I’m looking forward to dancing, singing, and making memories with all of you in Cedar Brook Park!”
This year, Rhythm & Blues by the Brook will be co-headlined by R&B icon Russell Thompkins Jr. & The New Stylistics and Ruben Studdard. Prior to forming The New Stylistics in 2004, Russell enjoyed a remarkable career as the lead singer of The Stylistics, performing globally recognizable songs that include “Break Up to Make Up,” “Betcha By Golly, Wow,” and Grammy-nominated classic, “You Make Me Feel Brand New.” Partnering with new, talented band members, Thompkins built upon his previous success, taking the R&B sensation The New Stylistics to soaring new heights.
American Idol season 2 winner, Ruben Studdard, will also be gracing the stage with his performance titled “My Tribute to Luther.” Known for his velvety, soulful voice, Ruben has enjoyed a flourishing career since his American Idol beginnings, releasing a Platinum debut album, “Soulful” in 2003, and seven studio albums in total. The R&B singer rose to fame with beloved tracks “Flying Without Wings” and “Sorry 2004,” and earned a Grammy nomination for his moving performance of “Superstar.”
Nineties hip-hop duo Black Sheep (“The Choice is Yours,” “Flavor of the Month”) and Latin ensemble David Cedeño & His Orchestra (“Cuando Manda El Corazón”) will also be performing. DJ Bookeem returns as this year’s Master of Ceremonies.
The event will feature a full afternoon of activities, including a Health & Wellness Fair, presented by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. – Eta Omicron Zeta Chapter, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A Kids Zone challenge course and inflatable attractions area will be available for children from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Guests are welcome to explore the food and vendor marketplace throughout the event to purchase their favorite summer treats and refreshments. Additionally, the popular Car and Motorcycle Show Spectacular, presented by G-Wiz Auto Entertainment, will return for another year of engaging car enthusiasts.
For full schedule details and updates on Rhythm & Blues by the Brook 2025, please visit ucnj.org/randb.
For more information about all events and activities in Union County Parks, please visit the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at ucnj.org/parks, call 908-527-4900 or email parksinfo@ucnj.org.