Rapper, poet and entrepreneur AJ McQueen understands the power of community because it saved his life.
From Feb 20-23, he is bringing back one of his most highly anticipated gatherings for creatives, entrepreneurs and community leaders seeking to connect and uplift one another.
GodBody Weekend is a festival that blends music, wellness and education while fostering economic opportunities for Black businesses and artists.
Now in its third year, the event has grown into a highly anticipated gathering for creatives, entrepreneurs and community leaders seeking to connect and uplift one another.
Growing up in St. Louis, he faced an environment filled with violence and gang activity.
He was shot twice at 15 and was almost paralyzed from the incident. Recognizing the potential dangers ahead, his mother sent him to Houston, hoping for a safer future.
Houston soon became more than just a place of refuge—it became a foundation for his personal and artistic growth and a second chance at life.
During his early years in Houston, McQueen found solace in writing, using poetry and music as an outlet to process his emotions and experiences. Encouraged by teachers and mentors who recognized his talent, he developed his voice as both an artist and an advocate. Witnessing how Houston embraced him, he committed himself to giving back to the community that shaped him.
After years of being overlooked by mainstream music festivals and events, McQueen decided to build his table instead of waiting for a seat at someone else’s.
“They weren’t booking me, so I created my own festival,” he says. “Why wait when we can cultivate our own?”
He recognized the challenges of navigating the music industry without major-label backing as an independent artist. Instead of conforming to industry expectations, he made sure that he maintained full creative control over his work.
This long-term mindset has allowed him to craft a discography rooted in storytelling, consciousness and empowerment rather than fleeting trends. His lyrics often reflect his life experiences, blending raw authenticity with poetic depth.
“Ownership is everything,” he says. “If you don’t own your art, someone else does and they control your narrative.”
What to expect
Unlike traditional music festivals, GodBody Weekend offers a holistic experience designed to nourish both the soul and the mind. This year’s event will feature live performances, panel discussions on financial literacy, health, spirituality and community service initiatives.
The incorporates its “Ther(Art)py session,” which is a unique activation merging therapy and art to create a dedicated space for creatives.
“What we go through as artists is different,” McQueen says. “It’s not just about money or success—if we aren’t fulfilling our purpose, nothing else matters. That’s why I created Ther(Art)py, to give artists a space to express themselves.” This space will include licensed therapists, studio equipment, yoga sessions and artistic expression workshops, allowing attendees to explore healing through multiple mediums.
M.A.P Fest (Music and Poetry Festival) is also debuting as part of GodBody Weekend. “I wanted to create something where poetry is front and center,” McQueen says. “Not just an add-on, but the main event.”
“This isn’t just about entertainment,” McQueen says. “It’s about creating a space where we can heal, build, and thrive together. We don’t need permission to celebrate ourselves.”
The festival aims to evolve into its standalone event in the future, providing a larger platform for spoken word artists and poets.
“It’s about creating a space where poets feel seen and celebrated,” he adds.
This year’s lineup includes thought leaders such as 19 Keys and Lisa Marie Lovett, who champion wellness, business ownership, and creative independence. “These are people shifting the culture,” McQueen says. “They’re not just influencers; they’re leaders, educators, revolutionaries.”
The festival is a rare opportunity to be in a space where their identities, voices and contributions are fully celebrated.
“This event aligns perfectly with the work I do in the community,” says Lisa Marie Lovett, who is a poet, photographer and mental health advocate. “I hope these conversations linger beyond just GodBody Weekend—into their jobs, friendships, and communities. We tend to hold things in reserve, but I want this to be a gateway for real dialogue.”
Lovett, who holds a master’s degree in clinical mental health, will be a panelist at the event, bringing her expertise on self-love, healing, and mental wellness.
“I’ve followed AJ for a while, and this just felt right,” she says. “It’s an opportunity to have real discussions about spirituality, relationships, and mental health in a space that welcomes honesty.”
McQueen envisions expanding the movement beyond Houston, creating similar spaces in cities nationwide.
“This isn’t just a festival—it’s a blueprint,” he says. We’re showing people that we don’t have to wait for permission. We can create, sustain, and thrive on our own terms.”
