The Hip Abduction to Headline Freedom First Down by Downtown Festival at Elmwood Park
Get ready, Roanoke! The Freedom First Down by Downtown Festival is back, and this year’s headline act at Elmwood Park is none other than The Hip Abduction. Known for their electrifying fusion of reggae, West African rhythms, and indie-pop, this St. Petersburg-based band will bring the ultimate feel-good energy to the stage on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
With their uplifting melodies and irresistible grooves, The Hip Abduction is the perfect soundtrack for a spring night under the stars. “The Hip Abduction are one of my favorite bands. If they’re in town, you have to see them play” says Jason Martin of Martin’s Downtown, the festival’s Official Afterparty venue, where the celebration will continue long after the show.
The Hip Abduction is the creative vision of singer-songwriter David New, who crafts music inspired by his travels. On stage, he’s joined by Matt Poynter (drums), Chris Powers (bass), Justino Walker (guitar, vocals, ngoni), and Cody Moore (keys, sax)—a powerhouse lineup that blends Afrobeat, reggae, jam, and indie-electronic influences into an unforgettable live experience. Since 2012, the band has played Floyd Fest and other major music festivals across the U.S., gained 750K+ monthly Spotify listeners, and toured with Dirty Heads, Slightly Stoopid, Galactic, and The Revivalists.
The Ultimate Blue Ridge Marathon After-Party
For runners participating in the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon earlier that day, The Hip Abduction’s energizing set will be the perfect way to celebrate post-race. Kick back on the lawn, sip a craft beer from Parkway or Big Lick Brewing, and soak in the festival vibes after conquering America’s Toughest Road Marathon.
Freedom First Down by Downtown: April 10-13, 2025
From April 10-13, 2025, Freedom First Down by Downtown will turn Roanoke into a citywide celebration of live music, with performances at top venues like Elmwood Park, The Spot on Kirk, 5 Points Music Sanctuary, and Big Lick Brewing.