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- 332 S. Michigan Ave, Suite 121 #5110,Chicago IL 60604
- info@cumff.org
- +1 (845) 433-7083
Are you a director or producer looking for fresh talent? CUMFF is the place to find it.
Whether you’re looking to sponsor an event, collaborate with a specific artist, or simply support the festival’s mission, we have options that align with your goals.
The festival has been a springboard for numerous talents who have gone on to secure record deals, film contracts, and more.
The Chicago Urban Music Film Festival (CUMFF) celebrates the talents born and nurtured in our neighborhoods. From street performances to church choirs, from backyard stages to local theater, urban talents are making waves. Join us in celebrating these artists as they step into the spotlight and showcase their skills on a global stage.
CUMFF nurtures and promotes a wide range of performing arts and entertainment genres, from spoken word to street dance, to cutting-edge indie films.
We create a global platform for artists, ensuring their voices are heard far beyond their local communities.
By facilitating connections between emerging talent and industry professionals, CUMFF fosters new opportunities for artists to be discovered, signed, and supported by major music labels and film studios.
CUMFF was born from a desire to challenge the traditional path to fame. Hollywood is filled with stars whose journeys began not in elite studios but in neighborhood streets, backyards, and local venues. CUMFF was founded to honor these roots, providing a platform for undiscovered artists to showcase their work, connect with industry leaders, and inspire the next generation of urban talent.
At CUMFF, our mission is clear: to shine a spotlight on the talent that flourishes in our urban neighborhoods and to provide a platform where these voices can be heard and appreciated on a global scale. We believe that creativity knows no boundaries, and our festival is a testament to the extraordinary skills and stories that emerge from the grassroots.
We are a catalyst for change in the lives of countless artists,actors and filmmakers. From securing record deals to landing major film roles, our festival has opened doors for participants in ways they never imagined.
The Veterans Awards, a unique initiative of the Chicago Urban Music and Film Festival (CUMFF), represents a heartfelt vision brought to life by Cmdr. Philip Willis, president of CUMFF. This groundbreaking program was initially conceived by Cmdr. Willis during his tenure with the Orlando Urban Film Festival (OUFF), where he served as Executive Director. His deep-rooted commitment to veteran affairs and entrepreneurial support has laid the foundation for this prestigious award, which honors veterans who have excelled in the fields of music, film, and the arts.
Cmdr. Willis, a retired U.S. Army Commander with over 20 years of experience in business and entertainment, brings a wealth of leadership and creativity to this initiative. He launched the Veterans Awards as part of his broader mission to empower veterans and provide them with opportunities in creative industries. His extensive background includes the creation of the Vet Connect Radio & Outreach Show in Chicago, further exemplifying his dedication to veteran advocacy.
Through the Veterans Awards, CUMFF aims to showcase the talents of veterans who have transitioned into the entertainment world, while also providing a platform for them to network with industry leaders. As part of this initiative, the festival honors those who have not only served their country but have also made significant contributions to the arts, creating a lasting impact on both the veteran community and the entertainment industry.
This initiative is a testament to Cmdr. Willis’ vision, which he first realized at OUFF. Now, as CUMFF continues to grow, the Veterans Awards will play a central role in spotlighting the exceptional talents and achievements of veterans across the globe.
CHICAGO – The adage !good things come to those who wait” certainly rings true for a Chicago music and video producer. It was over 20 years ago in Los Angeles, CA when Warner D. Ragland, owner and founder of Red Dove Media, was asked by a Sony Music executive to create a song submission for the King of Pop.Ragland returned to his south suburban studio and collaborated with his team and co-writing vocalist Rickey Rush and the song entitled “That Day” was born. Since Jackson’s death in 09’ the song has remained idle.
In recent conversations with the Jackson’s estate legal team, they inquired if the song was still available to be used as a tribute to Jackson with the full endorsement of the estate.
At the same time locally, Ragland accepted a position with the newly formed Chicago Urban Music Film Festival Company which led to a deal for global release of the song with Universal Music Group/Virgin Music Group/Urban Creed Music distribution.
The song “That Day” is designated as an official tribute song and has been submitted for Grammy consideration. According to Ragland, a portion of the proceeds will be dedicated to Jackson’s – Heal the World Foundation. He also added that with the endorsement of the estate, the song has a high likelihood to be used in the upcoming Jackson biopic currently in production. That film is scheduled for a 2025 release.
I am truly appreciative and grateful for the honors and accolades we have garnered since 2008 when Red Dove opened; but the idea of possibly winning a Grammy is surreal. It is not something my team and I discussed. We just focused on doing our best possible work,” he said.
Ragland noted Red Dove, which has production facilities in Chicago and Los Angeles, has completed scores of songs and for a variety of video productions-including for two television shows he’s produced – The Blexicans and Jr. Cuisine (link not available). Take a listen to That Day
Story by: Glenn Reddus – Sr. Journalist, Chicago Tribune.
(Ragland – Producer available for interviews by emailing warnerragland@gmail.com)
(Rush – Artist is available for interviews by email: voicemasterone@gmail.com)
Explore the vibrant world of urban music as we highlight the artists who make our city sing. From hip-hop to soul, from gospel to jazz, discover the sounds that are pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a modern musician. Get to know the artists through their profiles and listen to their tracks here.
Witness the creativity of urban filmmakers whose stories reflect the reality of life in the city. From short films to full-length features, CUMFF provides a stage for directors whose unique perspectives bring fresh narratives to the screen. Watch exclusive trailers, learn about the directors, and see their full films.
The performing arts are at the heart of CUMFF. Whether it’s contemporary dance, spoken word poetry, or experimental theater, this section showcases performances that captivate and challenge the audience. Each performance is accompanied by a profile of the performer, giving you deeper insight into their craft.
Think you have what it takes to perform on the CUMFF stage? Submit your music, film, or performance for consideration. We’re always on the lookout for new talent that pushes boundaries and brings something fresh to the world of urban arts.
Festival Schedule:
Workshops & Panels:
Networking Events:
Blexicans – A relevant sitcom of a young couple minority couple (Gabriella-Mexican and Carl Jr.-Black) elopes and has a child. Both families love the child(Emily) but cannot stand the other family.
