Fridays at Sunset concert series calls it quits after 18 years

For nearly 20 years, the Fridays at Sunset concert series brought in international acts to Kanawha Plaza. That is no more. Organizers announced today that Fridays at Sunset will no longer host acts, effectively ending the long-lasting concert series

March 1, 2012; 2:22 PM • by RVANews staff

On the day that the successful Friday Cheers concert series announced their 2012 schedule, another Friday staple announced that it is dissolving. After eighteen years, Fridays at Sunset will no longer operate.

In a statement posted on their website that struck a proud tone, organizers thanked the city “for the many years you supported us and the talented musicians that graced our stage.” The statement touched upon its goals to aid in the “revitalization and growth” of the Richmond Metro Region. “We are pleased to have contributed to the economic vitality of downtown Richmond by employing over 100 seasonal and part-time workers annually and nearly 300 interns from local colleges and universities.” The statement also said that over 100 scholarships were awarded to students during the event’s existence.

Fridays at Sunset was organized by Johnson, Inc., a local marketing and communications firm that wanted to provide the region with “top quality contemporary jazz music in a friendly atmosphere for after-work networking professionals.” In 1994, Fridays at Sunset held their first concert at the Shockoe Pavilion. It later moved to Kanawha Plaza, where it remained for the next sixteen years, hosting performers such as Wyclef Jean, Jill Scott, and Yolanda Adams.

While stating that “more dynamic entertainment” is in the works, no detailed plans were cited, and no known plans exist.

A collection of photos are available on the Fridays at Sunset website, and concert goers are encouraged to post their favorite memories on the defunct concert series’ Facebook page.