Kick It In Kinston

Something must be in the water in Kinston—despite its modest population (19,181), it has produced an impressive number of world-class musicians. Not only did Kinston give rise to five of James Brown’s (and funk’s) most valuable players, including Maceo Parker, but it’s also home to legendary pedal steel player Clyde Mattocks, disco diva Jocelyn Brown (Somebody Else’s Guy, Musique, Inner Life), Little Eva of Locomotion fame, and a host of talented local legends.

A visit to this town of talent will demonstrate that popular music is as important to Kinston today as Kinston has been to popular music. With murals, mosaics, and parks dedicated to the place’s rich musical history, Kinston’s one of those places that come alive with music. Throw in the town’s mix of arts centers and clubs, and the result’s a low-key funk and dance paradise.  

Suggested Music-Themed Day Trip Itinerary*

Morning

Start your day by checking out the Maceo Parker mural. The legendary horn player was an architect of James Brown’s funk revolution, and Brown’s famous line—"Maceo! Blow your horn! It's too funky in here!"— on Cold Sweat and Mother Popcorn testifies to his importance.

Never one to rest on his laurels, Maceo went on to work with Parliament-Funkadelic in the 1970s, Roger Troutman in the 1980s, and Prince in the 2000s, as well as recording funk-filled LPs under Maceo & All The King's Men.

The mural, painted by Scott Nurkin, is part of the NC Musicians Trail.

Website and Address: Maceo Parker Mural, 27 W Gordon St, Kinston, NC 28501

Midday

Barbecue is serious business in North Carolina, and Kinston has options. If you’re a carnivore, search online to find your fix. If BBQ isn’t your style, Kinston also offers a number of highly rated restaurants serving delectable Southern fare.

After a tasty lunch, head to the Kinston Music Park, part of the NC African American Music Trails.

This park celebrates the rich African American musical heritage of Eastern North Carolina. Highlights include:

• The Intersections Sculpture – A striking 12-foot-high, 23-foot-wide installation showcasing jazz, soul, and gospel musicians from the region.
• Walkway of Song Lyrics – Featuring iconic songs with Kinston connections, including I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown and Locomotion by Little Eva.
• Vibrant mosaics – Created by local students, paying tribute to NC’s genius painter Romare Bearden, as well as musicians like Nathaniel “Nat” Jones and Dick Knight.

The park also hosts seasonal outdoor concerts, bringing the community together to celebrate its expansive musical legacy.

Website and Address: Kinston Music Park, 500 S Queen St, Kinston, NC 28501

Afternoon

In the afternoon, make your way to Kinston’s Community Council for the Arts.

The Music Studio Gallery at the Arts Center honors the legacy of African American musicians from eastern North Carolina.

Exhibits feature:

• Striking portraits by documentary photographers Cedric N. Chatterley and Titus Brooks Heagins.
• Historic images from musicians' personal collections, offering an intimate glimpse into their lives and careers.

Website and Address: Community Council for the Arts, 400 N. Queen St, Kinston 28501 

Evening

Kinston has a lively music scene, with concerts and festivals happening year-round.

You can catch live performances from artists like The Malpass Brothers, Chatham Rabbits, and Tracy Byrd, along with events such as the Juneteenth musical celebration and the Spring Music Explosion.

From gospel to funk to jazz, Kinston always has something to offer the curious music fan.

The Grainger-Hill Performing Arts Center—formerly Kinston High School—is the city’s marquee venue, but plenty of shows happen at smaller local spots like J’s Place Private Nightclub.

Websites and Addresses:

• Grainger-Hill Performing Arts Center, 120 W Grainger St, Kinston, NC 28501

• J's Place Private Nightclub, 210 W Vernon Ave, Kinston, NC 28501

Music