In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Hudson-Prenkert, founder of the Sounds of the Zoo music festival in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Jennifer shares her inspiring journey from a career in dance and theater to creating a one-of-a-kind, mission-based music festival that celebrates diversity, sustainability, and community.
“I’m creating change through music.” That’s not just a tagline—it’s the heart of Sounds of the Zoo, a weeklong, free music festival that features over 50 bands across eight venues in Kalamazoo each September. But as Jennifer tells us, it’s more than a festival—it’s a year-round movement built on collaboration and inclusion.
Sounds of the Zoo 2025
📅 September 22–28, 2025
📍 Multiple venues in Kalamazoo, MI + Bronson Park
🎶 Free and open to the public
Follow @soundsofthezoo on Instagram for the latest updates, band announcements, and community collaborations. And keep an eye out for the debut of the Kalamazoo Gals documentary screening during this year’s fest!
Resources & Mentions
* GIG - The Art of Michigan Music Foundation
* Discover Kalamazoo & the Downtown Commons District
* Heritage Guitars & Gibson Guitar History
* Sounds of the Zoo Fundraiser and Irene Stearns Day Celebration – Life In Michigan
