COUSINZ FESTIVAL 2025:
THE 757 UNITES WITH MUSIC, CULTURE, AND COMMUNITY
BY MALIK DAVIS
The entertainment scene in Hampton Roads was in full swing as the 2nd Annual Cousinz Festival took over the Norfolk Scope grounds on Saturday, August 30, 2025.
Founded by Norfolk natives Famlay Johnson, Antonio Dowe, and Grammy-nominated artist Pusha T, the oneday festival brought the 757 together for a celebration of music, culture, and community.
Headliners T-Pain, Lil Kim, and Jeezy led a stacked lineup, but the event was about more than music. Local small businesses and food trucks were featured, reflecting the founders’ commitment to keeping the community at the center of the experience.
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“ It’ s about the community,” said co-founder Famlay Johnson.“ We want to give back, and we believe that’ s just as important as the entertainment side of things.”
That commitment showed through partnerships and initiatives, including a collaboration with Dominion Energy to help a Norfolk family renovate their home for greater energy efficiency. The festival also introduced the Cousinz Festival College Scholarship— created with Norfolk State University and Tidewater Community College— to assist students with tuition and living expenses.
The collaboration with NSU extended to the airwaves through Cousinz Radio on Hot 91 FM, hosted by Famlay and Moe with DJ Flood, giving listeners a preview of the festival’ s energy.
Leading up to the main event, organizers launched CousinzCon at Waterside District on Friday, August 29, featuring panels on voting rights and civic engagement in partnership with Justus Ideas.
With its blend of music, culture, and community investment, the Cousinz Festival once again lived up to its reputation as the festival of the summer.
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