Deitrick Haddon Performs at Taste of Soul Festival
Gospel artist Deitrick Haddon and The Hill City Collective headlined the Brenda Marsh-Mitchell Gospel Stage in South Los Angeles.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in R&B
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Deitrick Haddon and The Hill City Collective delivered a musical performance during the 21st annual Taste of Soul Family Festival. The event held on Crenshaw Boulevard served as a celebration for the local community.
Why it matters
The festival provides a day of unity and celebration for the Black community in South Los Angeles. It also coincides with significant milestones for key figures involved in the annual event.
The festival marks its 21st anniversary this year, coinciding with the October 16, 2026, release of the album Live in Los Angeles by Deitrick Haddon. Founder Danny J. Bakewell Sr. celebrated his 80th birthday during the same month.
The players
Deitrick Haddon
He is a prominent gospel singer, songwriter, and producer known for his contemporary musical style and energetic performances.
Danny J. Bakewell Sr.
He is the founder of the Taste of Soul Family Festival and a notable community leader in the Los Angeles area.
The Hill City Collective
This is a musical ensemble that performs alongside Deitrick Haddon for gospel-focused events and recording projects.
The details
The festival on Crenshaw Boulevard showcased a diverse lineup including musical acts, vocal ministry, and shared personal testimonies. Performers included DJ Count, Pastor Theo Wilkins and S.O.P., Janelle & Harmony, Anointed Feet Dance Ministry, Maurice Johnson, and Live Oak and the City Choir.
Timeline
October 16, 2026: Deitrick Haddon released his Live in Los Angeles album.
October 17, 2026: Deitrick Haddon performed at the Taste of Soul Family Festival.
October 2026: Festival founder Danny J. Bakewell Sr. turned 80 years old.
Industry Dynamics
The festival follows a long-standing tradition of anchoring cultural community gatherings in South Los Angeles with established gospel talent. This event continues the legacy of using major public stages to showcase music that serves as a central pillar of local cultural identity.
Fans of the gospel music scene can access the performance style of the featured artists through the recent release of the Live in Los Angeles album. The event provided local residents with free public access to live ministry performances on Crenshaw Boulevard.
The takeaway
The festival highlights the ongoing role of local community events in supporting and promoting gospel artists within the city. Attendees can look for future performances by the featured artists by tracking local gospel music event listings in the Los Angeles area.
Further reading
For more information on the local music scene, visit the R&B section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Los Angeles Sentinel.
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