The evening of June 22, 2025, will long be remembered as a defining moment in the world of modern soul. As the sun dipped below the horizon and the coastal breeze danced through the air, Rainbow Promotions—San Diego’s beloved Black-owned entertainment company—brought the city another unforgettable experience with their 7th Annual San Diego Jazz Festival. The crown jewel of the night? An emotionally charged, velvet-smooth performance by none other than October London, the soulful crooner whose voice has been described as the reincarnation of Marvin Gaye and the bridge between classic Motown and modern storytelling.
For years, Rainbow Promotions has curated powerful musical experiences for the Southern California community, and this year’s lineup reflected their continued commitment to celebrating the richness of jazz, R&B, and soul. Founded with a mission to uplift culture and community through music, Rainbow Promotions has carved a unique lane in the live music industry—championing quality over hype, authenticity over trends, and cultural preservation over commercial polish. Their passion was on full display Saturday night, where thousands gathered to witness one of the most exciting voices in contemporary soul.
October London, draped in timeless charm and vocal elegance, did more than perform—he transported. With each note, he peeled back layers of nostalgia, drawing the crowd into a world of smoky clubs, candlelit rooms, and love songs that actually mean something. Opening with selections from his acclaimed “The Rebirth of Marvin” trilogy, October London wasted no time establishing that this wasn’t just a performance—it was a cultural ceremony.
Backed by a tight rhythm section and lush harmonies, October floated through tracks like “Mulholland Drive,” “Back to Your Place,” and “Sensual Conversations,” each delivered with a depth and sensitivity that pulled cheers, tears, and quiet sighs from the crowd. His setlist was a masterclass in emotional pacing—flowing from gentle heartbreak to irresistible grooves. He honored the giants of the genre while making it abundantly clear that his voice belongs firmly in the present.
Born with an old soul and raised on the sounds of classic R&B, October London has emerged as the torchbearer for a new era of soul music. Discovered by Snoop Dogg and signed to Death Row Records, his rise has been anything but conventional. His music is drenched in honesty, vulnerability, and reverence for Black musical heritage.
In a cultural moment where speed and noise often drown out substance, October London stands as a refreshing contrast. His artistry reminds us that real love still exists, that storytelling through song still matters, and that soul music—true soul music—still has the power to heal, seduce, and elevate.
Rainbow Promotions deserves immense praise for creating such powerful, intimate experiences for the city. What started as a dream has blossomed into one of the most anticipated annual music events on the West Coast. With an eye for talent and a heart for community, they continue to create spaces where culture and connection thrive. The evening was brilliantly hosted by internationally acclaimed saxophonist Eric Darius, who has served as the charismatic master of ceremonies for all seven years of the San Diego Jazz Festival—bringing his infectious energy, musical pedigree, and deep love for the genre to every moment.
“It’s about bringing people together,” said Jasmine Henderson, Rainbow Promotions’ Artistic Director. “We want our shows to feel like a family reunion—where the music makes you dance, cry, and remember who you are.”
That spirit was felt throughout the night. As October London closed his set with the aching tenderness of “Midnight Love Affair,” couples embraced, strangers swayed together, and generations clapped in unison. This wasn’t just a show—it was a shared moment of beauty and belonging.
In a world increasingly fragmented by noise, Rainbow Promotions and October London gave San Diego something priceless: a night of soul. Not just the genre, but the feeling—the spirit of resilience, romance, and rhythm that lives in our bones. And if this performance was any indication, the return of romance isn’t just a theme—it’s a movement. October London is leading it. Rainbow Promotions is nurturing it. And the culture is all the better for it.
By Moshe Lewis MD, June 23, 2025
Follow @RainbowPromotions and @OctoberLondon for highlights and upcoming tour dates.
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