CINCINNATI – Two iconic hip-hop artists will kick off this year's Cincinnati Music Festival.
Organizers revealed on Facebook that DJ Jazzy Jeff and MC Lyte will headline Throwback Thursday, the first night of the festival that takes place July 26-28, at Paul Brown Stadium.
They will join previously announced performers Boyz II Men, Fantasia and Keith Sweat at the annual R&B festival, according to its website.
Organizers added Throwback Thursday as a third evening featuring music and a fashion show in 2016. The evening is geared toward attracting a younger, local audience.
RELATED: Cincinnati Music Festival still going strong after more than 50 years
Last year's Cincinnati Music Festival was one of the most successful in its 50-plus-year history, said Joe Santangelo, president of the Santangelo Group, which organizes the festival. He estimated more than 70,000 tickets were sold for the three-day event, which was headlined by R&B stars Mary J. Blige and Usher.
PHOTOS: See images from the 2017 Cincinnati Music Festival
The festival drew about 55,000 people to Paul Brown Stadium in 2016.
According to the festival's Facebook page, the full 2018 lineup will be announced later this year.
Tickets are currently on sale at www.cincymusicfestival.com.
