Downtown Toledo was filled with smooth sounds, throwback favorites and summertime energy as the Strictly R&B Park Jam returned to Promenade Park on Saturday, August 22.

The annual celebration of R&B brought music lovers together along Toledo’s riverfront hosted by “Mr. Good Knees” Cuntry for a night headlined by R&B singer Jon B and legendary group Next.

Next brought another dose of ’90s nostalgia to the Park Jam. The group, widely known for its chart-topping hit “Too Close,” helped turn Promenade Park into an old-school R&B celebration as the crowd enjoyed music from an era that continues to influence the genre today.

The Park Jam was kicked off by Toledo’s own R&B artists Anitra Chery, Sasha Denise, Mariqus Williams & Tracy Haynes who all brought the flavor to help set the stage for the night. 

But the Strictly R&B Park Jam has grown into more than a concert.

Now in its sixth year, the event is part of R&B Weekend, an experience designed to celebrate R&B music while also bringing attention to mental health and wellness. Organizers Tracy Haynes, Ryan McIntyre Noble, Lance Self & Marcus Coleman have described the Park Jam as a “party with a purpose,” using the popularity of music and entertainment to connect members of the community with mental-health resources and support.

Throughout R&B Weekend, attendees had opportunities to participate in experiences extending beyond the main concert, including activities centered around wellness, art, poetry, yoga and other forms of entertainment.

The Park Jam itself has become a signature summertime event in Toledo. In 2025, Toledo City Council formally recognized the festival and its organizers, noting that the annual event attracts thousands of people to Promenade Park and highlighting its commitment to music, community and mental-health awareness.

That combination was once again at the center of this year’s celebration.

With Jon B and Next providing the soundtrack, the 2026 Strictly R&B Park Jam gave Toledo a night filled with nostalgia, culture and community while continuing to show how R&B can bring generations of music lovers together.

For organizers, the mission remains bigger than who’s performing on stage. It’s about creating an experience where people can have a good time, connect with one another and potentially leave with resources that can make a difference in their lives.

For Toledo it was a summer night at Promenade Park where the music took center stage and unity was in the air. 

Welcome to The Set List, a brand-new video series hosted by Brooke Butler, shining a spotlight on the voices, stories, and sounds of the 419 music scene. 🎸🎤 In this first episode, Brooke kicks off the series by introducing what The Set List is all about—real conversations with local bands and musicians about their journey. From how they got started in music, what inspired them to form their band, to the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way, this series dives deeper than the surface. The Set List is more than just music—it’s about passion, perseverance, and the grind it takes to build something real in the local scene. Whether you’re an artist, a fan, or someone who loves supporting hometown talent, this series is for you. Tap in, turn it up, and get to know the artists shaping the sound of the 419—one set at a time. 🎶🔥

Cynthia Zachrich is a vibrant and beautiful soul. From the first moment I saw her perform I knew she was a force to be reckoned with, but I was a little intimidated by her so I didn’t even introduce myself to her right away as I sometimes do. It wasn’t until months later when I realized we shared a mutual close friend that I thought to myself, well if they’re close, and we’re close, then I bet she and I would get along great! So I reached out her through Facebook to introduce myself and I asked her to coffee, almost like asking a stranger on a date, only this was a musician friend date! She said yes, we met up, and we clicked immediately! 

Over the past couple of years, Cynthia and I have shared laughter and tears and new experiences and lessons we’ve learned through life’s struggles. Getting to zoom in on her music journey and how she got to where she is was a lot of fun.

Ashley: Do you remember the first time you thought, “I want to be on stage singing”?

Cynthia: I remember wanting to be in the high school musicals so bad, but I was so nervous for tryouts that I lost my voice. I finally made it into one my junior year. That was it!

Ashley: And the rest is history! So I initially met you through your band Venyx. Can you tell me about how that band started and what kind of music you play? 

Cynthia: My best friend since we were 15 years old, Jessica, got me into this amazing Pink Floyd Tribute Band with her. When that ended, she said we should start our own band. So, we did! That was 19 years ago. We play top 40 with a little classic rock, from Prince to Heart. 

Ashley: I love that! Doing music with your closest friends is so meaningful. Who are the artists that shaped your voice and music style the most?

Cynthia: I was really lucky that both of my parents listened to so many different styles of music. I really vibed with R&B and Motown. But I really found the styles I loved with Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige and Sade. And of course Latin music.

Ashley: Ooh I also grew up on Motown! Ok, let’s talk personal influences. Has there been anyone in your life who has played a significant role in your music career? 

Cynthia. My mom, for sure. She and her sisters had a band called Willow with four part harmonies. For all of us cousins, that was the highlight of any family get together.

Ashley: Music bringing a family together, that’s so beautiful. I think music can also bring a community together, like the local music scene we have here. What do you think makes our local music scene so special?

Cynthia. The respect and support for each other. A long time ago, before I was ever around the scene, I heard it wasn’t very nice. That has not been my experience, at all. I have made so many friends because of being in a band that plays in this area. Everyone supports everyone and even invites friends in other bands to play gigs or come and perform a song or two. I love it.

Ashley: It really is a great community. I know you sing in a few other projects as well. Tell me about those.

Cynthia: Currently, I’m focusing on Venyx mostly. Venyx has the five piece, four piece, and two and three piece acoustic variations. That keeps us pretty busy. But, I do sing for a Toto Tribute Band occasionally, and sing for a band called the Hypnotics when they open for bands like Warrant or Night Ranger. 

Ashley: What has been the most difficult part of being active in multiple groups, and how do you balance it?

Cynthia: I think just being overly busy. I work full-time and I have double booked myself before! Now I have a schedule book that I’m diligent about keeping up to date. Color coded and all!

Ashley: What would you consider the highlight of your career thus far?

Cynthia: Definitely, the relationship I have with the rest of the band and their families. I’m so comfortable being on stage with these guys and it truly makes me happy. I love when people who come out to see us tell me that they had a great time and will be back. Some of my closest friends I would not have met if it weren’t for Venyx. I get to do what I absolutely love to do and people enjoy it. That is the best!

Ashley: Can you share a performance memory that really stuck with you—whether funny, emotional, or unforgettable?

Cynthia: There are several, for sure. But one that sticks out was at Put-In-Bay. When we were done, a lady came up to me and asked me what the name of a song that we did was. After figuring out which one it was, she said she had never heard it before. It was “Creep” by Radiohead, so I was like, “Really?” But, she said she loved it so much that she had tears and was going to go listen to the original. She came back the next night and said it is now one of her favorite songs and she loved the way the band performs it. 

Ashley: That’s so cool, you got to introduce her to a song she may have never heard of it weren’t for you, and it made a huge impact! Okay, if you could dream up the next step for yourself musically—whether that’s an album, a festival, or a dream collaboration—what would it be?

Cynthia: I would love to collaborate with so many artists in our area. We have some serious talent and I always think, man, it would be so cool to do a gig with these people. I would also love to someday have the time and resources to create some original music for an album.

Ashley: Where can people find more information about your upcoming shows and music?

Cynthia: Our Venyx Facebook page or website, Venyxrocks.com.