Vanilla Ice Brings Message of Unity and Peace to Roc Music Fest

On Oct. 26, 2025, the ROC Music Fest “I Love the 90’s Tour” and Tacos & Tequila event brought high energy, nostalgia and flavor to the Rochester Community Sports Complex.

90's Hip Hop Star Vanilla Ice - Photo by Don Schwartz

As guests arrived, food trucks were already lined up, serving everything from tacos to soul food, Greek dishes, ice cream and desserts. ROC Dilla’s food truck offered delicious pork rice bowls, with the option to substitute lettuce for rice. A few vendors also offered tequila-tasting samples.

The event kicked off with several wrestling matches presented by Lucha Xtreme Wrestling. Wrestlers walked — and some ran — down the outdoor lane to the ring. The matches drew loud cheers from the crowd.

And although the attendance was disappointingly low, at 2 PM music filled the air. James and Lakara Carter said they came “to hear old-school music and taste the tacos and tequila.”

Julia Delaney shared, “I came to watch the wrestling and enjoy the tequila tasting. I’m glad I have a VIP pass.” Her friends, Jeremy and Casey Foley, added, “We’re excited to see the wrestling and looking forward to Vanilla Ice.”

Michael Davis Sr. said he attended “to listen to old-school music and gather with family and friends.” His friend Danny Lathrop added, “It’s good to connect with old friends and enjoy great music.”

Attendees mingled, laughed and danced while sampling beverages such as 1800 Reposado Tequila, Dulce Vida Pineapple Jalapeño Tequila, Dulce Vida Grapefruit Tequila, Recipe 21 Vodka, and a variety of wines and champagnes.

After the wrestling matches, the ROC Music Fest lineup took the stage, featuring Color Me Badd, Young MC, C+C Music Factory, Rob Base, and headliner Vanilla Ice. Each performer brought high energy, and some even invited audience members on stage to dance along.

Mary Smith said she attended “because the event benefited veterans. I know some veterans, and I also wanted to support my friend Rashad with The Beat 105.5 FM.”

Ronald Smith added that he came “to have a good time, support friends, and check out the food vendors.” Their friend Wendy Feacher laughed and said, “I came out to get a man — and to support Rashad.”

As the night continued, the crowd’s anticipation grew for the main act. Born in Dallas and raised in Miami, Vanilla Ice — whose real name is Robert Matthew Van Winkle — hit the stage full of energy. The audience erupted as his opening music played. Fans matched his enthusiasm as he rapped and danced, inviting them to join him on stage.

The crowd was diverse — people of all ages, backgrounds and styles danced together, united by music.

Between songs, Vanilla Ice spoke about peace and unity. At several moments, he raised the American flag and even wrapped it around his neck and face, symbolizing national pride. Fans eagerly lifted their phones to take selfies with the star as he moved along the stage.

“I’m glad I came,” said Thelma Chandler. “I’m having so much fun listening to old-school music.”Her friend Deidra Wallace added, “It’s nice being here and hanging out with my friend Thelma. I can let my hair down and represent the old-school crew.”

As the event concluded, old-school music still flowed through the night air — a fitting end to a day filled with nostalgia, community and celebration.