Janet Jackson, Isley Brothers, New Edition & More Set for Kentucky Derby Week Concerts

The 2022 Kentucky Derby is just around the corner, but the May 7 horse race is far from the only big event coming to Louisville: This year’s Derby Week entertainment will include concerts from Janet Jackson, New Edition, the Isley Brothers and more.

The Derby celebrations kick off this Saturday when former University of Louisville football players Lamar Jackson, and Teddy Bridgewater will return to town for the Derby City Reunion Weekend held at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center. On Wednesday, May 4, the same venue will host the Isley Brothers at the Louisville Urban League Gala. The Taste of Derby VIP event takes over the KFC Yum! Center on Thursday, May 5

The week will end on Saturday, May 7th with Arts, Beats, and Lyrics at KFC Yum! Center following the race, Kevin Gates at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, and Janet Jackson and New Edition performing at Lynn Family Stadium — marking the first time that a music event has been held at the soccer stadium.

Dante Walker, owner of Royal Creationz, promoted

Gates. He said, “This has been a personal dream of mine.” Derby weekend is something that I have always loved, having been born and raised in Louisville. It is an honor to play a bigger role in Derby Day celebrations. I am grateful for the partnership with ASM Global. I look forward to welcoming thousands Kevin Gates fans at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, May 7 .”

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Eric Granger is ASM Global’s general manger for all three venues. He stated in a press release: “We are eagerly to bring new entertainment options and give fans additional ways of celebrating Derby week.” We are proud to partner with a variety live entertainment companies who care about our community and are excited to bring these new entertainment options for Louisville .

Get more information and tickets to KFC Yum’s events! Center’s website here, the Lynn Family Stadium’s website here, and the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center’s website here.

Cleo Battle, president and CEO of

Louisville Tourism, said: “Hosting an anual event that garners international attention affords Louisville an opportunity to host the biggest economic impact generator of the year during the Kentucky Derby season.” “Our Derby hats go to our partners at ASM Global who offer events that complement an exciting week. They offer more opportunities to drive an even wider audience into Louisville to enjoy the city at this most unique time of year .”

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