Harlem of the South: Tampa’s Cultural Renaissance

EVENT OVERVIEW

Harlem of the South: Tampa is a Black History Month cultural experience celebrating "The Scrub" Tampa’s historic Central Avenue district; once known as the “Harlem of the South.”

This one-night-only performance bridges past and present through music, storytelling, and live orchestration. i Am Preme takes the stage backed by a full live orchestra, honoring the legacy of Black musicians, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders who shaped Tampa’s creative identity.

Blending hip-hop, jazz, orchestral arrangements, and historical homage, the evening reimagines Tampa’s Black cultural renaissance for a new generation—where heritage meets innovation, and history is felt, not just remembered.

Hosted at Barness Recital Hall at the University of South Florida, this immersive performance is both a tribute and a living continuation of Tampa’s Black artistic legacy.

EVENT DETAILS

Event Title:
Harlem of the South: Tampa
A Black History Month Cultural Experience

Artist:
i Am Preme
with Live Orchestra

Band:
Mister Wagner & The Get Down Band

Date:
Saturday, February 28th, 2026 7pm-10pm

Venue:
Barness Recital Hall
University of South Florida (USF)

Presented By:
USF School of Music, Pushing Dreams LLC & Hidden Sound Village

What to Expect:

• Live performance by i Am Preme
• Full orchestra featuring Black musicians
• Afro, hip-hop, Jazz and orchestral fusion
• Visual and cultural homage to Tampa’s Central Avenue era
• A refined, seated concert experience in a world-class recital hall

Audience:
Students, faculty, alumni, community members, music lovers, and anyone interested in Black history, culture, and the arts.

Dress Code (Optional):
Suit and tie affair Dress to impress, evening attire encouraged.