“Enjoy peace, with pride, and pleasure, that’s our motto here at the Taste of Soul!”

That’s what Los Angeles Sentinel CEO Danny Bakewell said Saturday afternoon at the third annual Taste of Soul Festival, sponsored by radio stations Radio Free KJLH and 94.7 the WAVE on the blocks of Crenshaw Boulevard. The neighborhood food, arts, and live music fest catered to over 100,000 visitors and neighbors alike, with over 1,000 vendors offering health products, empowerment pamphlets, and, my favorite: homestyle bad-for-the-heart-but-good-for-the-soul food. Mmm. Suffice to say I had my fair share of peach cobbler, a little bit of Brian McKnight, and a few double takes of life-sized Obama cutouts too.

Though the day was full of a star-studded R&B and gospel lineup, it became evident to the musicians themselves that the main celebrity was Barack Obama. Artwork, food kiosks, and performers showed their support in every way possible, from colorful finger-painted pieces to graffiti airbrushed t-shirts. One shirt that said “Michelle Obama for First Lady” was popular among women. How awesome is that? Moreover, given that Mr. Obama himself was not there, people were easily fooled by the numerous life-sized cutouts of the senator.

But let’s not forget about the other main attraction (for me at least): the rich, comfy soul food. Hundreds of people didn’t care about the long lines, this was what they’ve been waiting for! The ’shaw’s fav restaurants held their own, showcasing never-ending vendors from Mr. Gumbo, Gwen’s Cakes and Pies, and The J Spot. Some items on the menu: barbecue smoked rib tips, seasoned fried catfish, succulent garlic shrimps, sweet potato pie, and warm peach cobbler.

As if that wasn’t enough, gospel, jazz, and R&B stars got the crowd on its feet, including soulful singer Brian McKnight, saxophonist Boney James, and surprise guest Jon B. McKnight, who also hosts a morning show on 94.7 the WAVE, headlined the event, while sax player Boney James performed his own version of Chaka Khan’s “Sweet Thing,” and Jon B bringing back 90s slow jams like “They Don’t Know” and “Are You Still Down?” Jon B also reminded everyone that he is finally releasing his anticipated album, Helpless Romantic, on October 28.

The art and jewelry kiosks were another crowd favorite. Colorful handmade jewelry, rasta-themed clothing, and beautiful original paintings were on display. Among the most distinct artwork: feather earrings, political urban paintings, and roots art.

The festival wasn’t just about fun and games, it was also about improving the community. Numerous tents offered helpful lifestyle information, from providing health products for families to learning how to live green. The Los Angeles Police Department made an appearance, offering information about their services to the community.

Los Angeles Congresswoman Diane Watson also spoke on the stage, inspiring everyone to get out and vote. “As I look out over this crowd, we are what America is all about. What a historical opportunity we have,” she said. “We indeed can make the difference. On the fourth [of November], I want you to celebrate with the world that America has lived up to its promise!”

Tags: Barack Obama, boney james, brian mcknight, crenshaw boulevard, danny bakewell, gospel music, jon b, los angeles sentinel, r&b and jazz, rasta art, soul food, taste of soul festival 2008