What NOT to bring
October 4, 2022Heart & Soul Music Festival Announces the 2023 Music Lineup
May 5, 2023ORLANDO, FL – October 5, 2022 – Renowned signer Ronald Isley will be honored with the key to the
city of Apopka, Florida during the 2022 Heart & Soul Music Festival. Legendary group The Isley Brothers,
who released their new album Make Me Say It Again, Girl on September 30, will headline this year’s
festival. The event will also celebrate African American history with music, a talent showcase, art exhibits,
food, merchandise, and a health fair. Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson and City Commissioner Alexander
Smith will present Ronald Isley with the key to the city at the festival on Saturday, October 8.
Considered one of the most influential groups of all time, The Isley Brothers’ career spans over six
decades. With timeless classic hits like “Between the Sheets,” “For the Love of You,” “That Lady (Who’s
that Lady),” and “Contagious,” the group has enjoyed one of the longest and most diverse careers in music.
“Bringing The Isley Brothers to Apopka, FL is a big deal,” said City Commissioner Alexander Smith.
Apopka, a city in Orange County, Florida is located 12 miles northwest of Orlando. “The city was once
known as a rural, agricultural community. Bringing an event like the Heart & Soul Music Festival to the
city is good for the economy and community. It helps highlight the diverse city and it’s an opportunity to
show the city support,” said Smith who was elected city commissioner in 2018. “Ronald Isley’s music
broke barriers and touches the lives of all people. I’m excited to be a part of this historic moment.”
Over the last several decades, the Isley Brothers have been recipients of multiple prestigious awards. Hosts
of thought-provoking radio talk show Let’s Talk Nation USA; Rod Love and Attorney Greg Jackson
both acknowledge The Isley Brother’s impact and influence on music. Former Orange County
Commissioner and business leader Rod Love said, “Apopka is the 2nd largest municipal in Orange
County. Ronald Isley’s presence in the city will make Apopka a key destination for years to come.”
The Key to the City honors individuals who have inspired and positively impacted others. “The Heart &
Soul Music Festival is an outstanding event for the city of Apopka and the state of Florida. We look
forward to the event and welcoming Ronald Isley to the city,” said Attorney and host Greg Jackson.
“Having a key to the City means honoring someone and paying respect. Ronald Isley is very deserving of
this honor,” said Mayor Bryan Nelson, who is currently in his fifth year as Mayor. “This is a big deal. Only
a few individuals have received such an honor in the city. Ronald Isley’s music not only influences this
city, but the world. As our community continues to grow, it is important to give back and support
positive events. We are excited for someone of this caliber to come to our city. I want visitors to
consider Apopka home not only for a day but hopefully a lifetime,” said Mayor Nelson.
Join us for the 2nd Annual Heart & Soul Music Festival on October 8, 2022, at the Apopka
Amphitheater! Tickets are on sale now! Proceeds from the event will benefit the “Free Kids Trip to Africa
Program,” an educational and cultural exchange trip to Ghana, Africa.” For tickets or more information
visit www.heartandsoulmusicfestival.eventbrite.com or www.heartandsoulfestival.com.