Freed Fest Celebrates Alan Freeds Legacy with Live Music and Industry Panel in Salem

Freed Fest returned Saturday, August 7, 2026, to honor the musical legacy of Alan Freed, a Salem High School alumnus who coined the term “rock and roll.” The nine‑year‑old festival, part of the Salem High School Alumni Weekend, drew crowds to downtown Salem, Ohio, where free live performances and a panel discussion highlighted Freed’s impact on American music.

The event opened with a series of live acts that spanned genres from classic rock to contemporary pop. Performers played in front of historic storefronts and at local bars, turning the downtown corridor into an open‑air concert venue. The free‑entry policy, a hallmark of Freed Fest, encouraged residents and visitors alike to experience the music without a ticket fee.

A key feature of the day was a panel hosted at Salem High School, where five music industry professionals discussed the role of music as a universal language. The panelists were bassist and session musician Leland Sklar, producer Nic Collins, executive David Santos, industry consultant Paul Quin, and producer Rick Dejonge. According to the event’s organizers, the discussion focused on how music can unite people in an era of increasing division and how Freed’s pioneering work helped break down racial barriers in the 1950s.

Leland Sklar, known for his work with James Taylor and other high‑profile artists, brought decades of experience to the conversation. Nic Collins, a producer who has worked with emerging artists, emphasized the importance of nurturing new talent. David Santos, a music executive, spoke about the business side of the industry, while Paul Quin and Rick Dejonge added perspectives on music production and distribution.

The panel was free to attend, and it was held in the school’s auditorium, which had been renovated for the event. The discussion was recorded and later posted on the festival’s official website for those who could not attend in person.

The festival also featured a vendor market that showcased local musicians, instrument makers, and audio equipment suppliers. Visitors could sample instruments, purchase recordings, and learn about the latest audio technology. The market was part of the broader Salem High School Alumni Weekend, which included a reunion dinner and a historical exhibit on Freed’s career.

Christine Ohlman, a former Saturday Night Live cast member, was originally slated to join the panel. However, she was unable to attend due to transportation issues, according to a statement released by the festival’s communications team. Ohlman’s absence was noted by attendees, but the panel proceeded without her.

The festival’s organizers credited the event’s success to community support and the dedication of volunteers. The event was promoted through local media outlets, social media, and the festival’s website, which listed the schedule and vendor information.

Alan Freed, who died in 1965, was a radio disc jockey who popularized rhythm and blues records that later became the foundation of rock and roll. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 for his role in breaking down racial barriers and bringing together white and black audiences.

Freed Fest’s celebration of Freed’s legacy underscores the continuing relevance of his contributions to music history. The festival’s free programming and community focus reflect Freed’s own commitment to making music accessible to all.

The event concluded with a final performance by a local tribute band, and attendees were invited to share their memories of Freed’s influence on the festival’s social media pages. The festival’s official website will post a full recap of the day’s events, including photos taken by Morgan Ahart, who covered the festival for local press.

The 2026 Freed Fest will continue through Sunday, August 9, with additional performances, vendor stalls, and a closing ceremony that will honor Freed’s enduring impact on American music culture.