IMS IBIZA ANNOUNCES INDUSTRY EXPERTS ANALYSING THE FINDINGS OF THE IMS BUSINESS REPORT 2020
LIVE INTERACTIVE WEBINAR PRESENTATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BILLBOARD DANCE
ON THURSDAY 16 JULY
Billboard Dance’s Director Katie Bain will moderate commentary and insight in a discussion featuring representatives from or connected to BBC Radio 1, BloodPop®, Creative Artists Agency, Grimes, Ministry of Sound Recordings and Ultra Music
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CONVERSATION
International Music Summit (IMS), the premier platform for business, culture and education today announce the industry experts that will discuss and debate the findings of the tenth edition of the IMS Business Report, authored by data analyst Kevin Watson. Considered a crucial resource in the electronic music industry, the report will provide detailed analysis of the last twelve months, including the impact of the global pandemic and the all-important value of the industry pre and post virus, which in 2019 stood at $7.2bn.
Immediately after a presentation of the findings of the report there will be a live discussion examining the statistics and figures and their implications for the industry today. Moderated by Katie Bain, Director of Billboard Dance, the analysis will feature commentary and insight from the following leading voices:
The report will include findings on artist income, festival and club cancellations, growth markets, DSP’s, streaming and associated revenue and how electronic music is competing with other genres. It will also examine the impact of the current pandemic and reveal how the electronic music industry has reacted to this turbulent year.
Participants of the interactive webinar will be able to engage with the assembled panel of experts, ask questions, provide opinions and vote in polls. Webinar places are limited and will be filled on a first come first served basis, to join the conversation click here. The presentation and debate will also be lived streamed on IMS and Billboard Dance Facebook pages for those unsuccessful with registering for a webinar place.
DATE: Thursday 16 July
TIME:
LINK TO REGISTER: Click here
The IMS Business Report 2020 in partnership with Billboard Dance to be presented via live webinar on July 16th at 17:00 BST
Tomorrow Angie McMahon was due to perform with her band at Latitude Festival in the UK.
This month Angie would have just kicked off her first headline band shows across the UK and Europe before spending some time in Ireland to write and explore. When the trip was cancelled in early March, Angie rallied to collect funds for a local charity Support Act, raising a target of $50,000 to go towards music workers in need of financial support.
In a search for a sense of connectedness amongst her band and team, as well as creating new work, Angie collaborated with local creatives to film and record An Online Solo Piano Concert. The online piano concert was filmed at The Perch Recording Studio, Castlemaine and recorded and mixed by Angie’s touring sound engineer, Jono Steer. The studio, based in regional Victoria, has been adapted in a way that allows for a solo artist to record in an isolated setting that abides by social distancing rules.
The videos were filmed by Angie’s manager Charlotte Abroms, edited by Angie’s regular editor, Lewis Parsons, a freelance editor based in Toronto, Canada. After the filming took place, Angie then recorded additional instrumentation for the tracks with the idea to officially release Piano Salt as an EP; a collection of reimagined piano versions of Angie’s original songs and some of her favourite covers. The tracks were mixed by Angie’s bass player and producer Alex O’Gorman and mastered by Adam Dempsey.
Angie and her team have felt connected, creative and collaborative working on the concert during the lockdown period. The concert is 35 minutes long, featuring Angie performing stripped back, reimagined piano versions of her original songs, a new song and a cover of one of her favourite songs. Tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster today.
“Practising the piano and recording something in isolation felt like the only thing I wanted to do when we were locked down, so it was really fun to turn this into a concert that will hopefully feel like an intimate live music experience while we can’t go visit our much loved venues. I got to reimagine songs off my record, and I currently prefer some of the piano versions honestly, so I hope people like them.”
– Angie McMahon
The concert will be housed at a newly launched website called Kind Face Creative, a home for music and creativity during the pandemic and beyond. There are multiple ticket tiers which cater to various stages of lockdown around the world, allowing for fans to watch at home alone, with a group of people and for venues to screen to an audience.
A portion of the concert’s proceeds will be donated to Clothing The Gap’s
‘Free the Flag Campaign’, in a bid to fight to free the Aboriginal flag from its current licensing and see Aboriginal people have equal rights and access to their flag.
“Free The Flag is one of the Indigenous movements that I want to throw support behind as an artist living and working on this land, where Indigenous communities are always having to fight for their rights. I love repping their merch and having conversations about how we can show support and keep showing up, and I hope our contribution helps bring light to that. It’s just doing something small, instead of doing nothing. I think it’s important for artists to commit their voices and profits to the issues in the world around us!” – Angie McMahon
The Piano Salt EP is due for release in early October via AWAL and Dualtone (North America).
Davey Lane
Wednesday 15th July, 8pm
Join us (online) tonight, Wednesday July 15th as we live stream Davey Lane, direct from the Cherry stage! We’re delivering sensational performances every week whilst the COVID battle continues, beamed out from the live music capital of the world…
With a now two decades on lead guitar for You Am I along with fronting neo-mod rockers The Pictures, Davey Lane should need no introduction. Outside of these vital contributions, he remains an in-demand mercenary for local and international greats the like of Crowded House, Jimmy Barnes, Todd Rundgren, Vika & Linda Bull, Robyn Hitchcock, The Saints and one off supergroups such as The Wrights. Collaborative efforts that assist in the development of his craft, Davey continues to display a knack for true pop sensibilities, big choruses and a surreal turn of phrase.
Taking time out from the studio finalising 3rd LP “Don’t Bank Your Heart On It”, this performance is not to be missed!
Follow these Instagram accounts for details of upcoming sets!
“Charlie knows how to make a compelling track AND how to wring the last drops of emotion out of it.” – Dave Ruby Howe
“Charlie Gradon’s talent is seemingly uncontainable.” – Life Without Andy
Sydney melancholic storyteller Charlie Gradon revels in nature in the video accompaniment to his latest release ‘Blurry Ones”. He’s also announced his first real life show post-Covid lockdown on August 1st at The Lansdowne Hotel.
The product of an unexpected family collaboration the video showcases Gradon sampling nature with his vintage tape recorder. On the cusp of lockdown and visiting cousins from overseas, the idea snowballed and was filmed in one shoot that afternoon. “It was quite eerie as lockdown was just about to kick in so there was no one around.” He continues “I think the clip serves as nostalgia of a simpler time where we could go outside and enjoy the simple things.”
Since its release ‘Blurry Ones’ has been welcomed by radio with rotation on Double J and FBi Radio. From his forthcoming sophomore EP, the track was written when Gradon bought his wife a vintage camera which took, as he describes, “basically useless blurry photographs”. Born in his bedroom studio, the track sounds just like the blurry images Gradon sings of – nostalgic and reflective indie-rock.
Earlier this year Gradon resurfaced with the mellow single ‘Grieving’ which found a home on radio, reaching #3 on the AMRAP Metro Radio Charts along with adds on FBi Radio, 2SER and EDGE.
The products of a challenging period of change, both singles offer a glimpse of Gradon’s introspective upcoming sophomore EP – out later this year – which the talented multi-instrumentalist wrote and performed on his own.
This omnibus follows on from 2018’s ‘Self Doubt’ which intrigued audiences and garnered on-air support from Double J and FBi Radio and had him named in The Music Writer’s Poll for ‘Song of the Year’. Echoing this praise, he was recently a finalist in Happy Mag’s Needle in the Hay competition out of 2000 entries, and named in Life Without Andy’s Next Big Things for 2020.
With the world in an extended period of reflection Charlie Gradon is here with the perfect soundtrack.
CHARLIE GRADON
‘BLURRY ONES’
OUT NOW
performing on
Saturday, August 1st
The Lansdowne Hotel
TICKETS
Where are you currently based and where were you born?
Currently based in the St George area of Sydney. Born and raised in south-west Sydney – Campbelltown followed by Camden.
How did you first start playing the guitar/music?
At 3 years old, I’d mimic my idols as well as my father who was a passionate hobby guitar player. If you asked my parents, they’d say that the only thing that came natural was my work ethic and passion to play. I’d lock myself in my room with a singles record player and try to copy my favourite riffs and guitar solos for hours on end. Eventually, my father began to nurture my passion by creating practice routines that ultimately put me on the path of being the guitarist I am today.
What’s been happening recently?
My focus has been divided amongst a few exciting things – completing my album, filming an episode of Australian Story, booking a tour as well as spending time connecting with the world on a new platform – Twitch.
Your new single ‘Before You Check Out’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track?
The vocals set the tone for the song. With the lyric being deep and at times confronting, I wanted the production to align a little more with the positive aspects of the message. I did this by keeping the tempo fairly up, and choosing appropriate instrumentation. Fingered acoustic, retro slide guitar, light percussion. On the flip side, I used 70’s influenced slide and trumpet to trigger “happy sad” emotions. Depth was achieved through big velvety keys, sub bass and piano from the bridge onwards. It was really important to me that the track stretched beyond simple folk production.
How did you go about writing Before You Check Out?
I wrote BYCO after attending a cousin’s funeral who sadly lost his battle with depression/anxiety. Having recently dealt with my own demons that resembled his, I identified strongly with what he went through and understood why he made such a permanent decision. One morning I woke up rattled with regret that I hadn’t reached out to him earlier and began to query myself on what wisdoms I would have shared. My life transformed for the better when I learnt how our thoughts and beliefs colourise our experience. When we aren’t aware of this, we can be misguided on what the source of suffering truly is. The chorus lines instantly came to mind – Before you check out, before you give in, just know you’re checking out of a place you’ve never been. Ironically, I wrote the rest of the song whilst sitting in front of a sunset that was right in front of me, yet too lost in thought to notice.
And you’ve got a new album due out August 6 too, you sure have been busy! Where and when did you record/produce and who did you work with?
Too busy!!! Ha! I’m looking forward to having my weekends back. The first 5 tracks were produced by myself, co-produced and mixed by Tony Buchen (Montaigne, Mansionair) with half of the recordings engineered at Free Energy Device by Richie B. I decided to take on the rest of the tracks by myself with help from the ears of friends to keep me from falling down unproductive rabbit holes! 😉
How did you approach the recording/production?
Many of these songs were written when I wasn’t intending to return to music. The demos were created over time purely from a place of catharsis. For most tracks, the aim was to do better versions of the demo and in some situations, we reverted back to takes used in the roughs! Influences were sub-conscious with flavours and styles forming organically with time. All songs bar one were chosen unanimously by myself and team. Let’s just say that if everyone around you passionately protests against the removal of a song -Listen! Fortunately, I did and with some love, it’s now close to one of my favourites.
What programs/instruments did you use?
Pro Tools for recording and mixing. Guitars, bass, real drums, sample drums, brass, keys, piano, vocals.
You’ve also made an amazing video to accompany the single, how did the concept for the video come about?
Synchronicity! I wasn’t intending on releasing a film clip with this song. Cornered by my team, the pressure was on to create a clip in 3 days. I had to come up with a simple idea that cost no more than $500 and remembered that I always wanted to do a clip with a projector. With the song being about how projections of the past can colourise our experience, I felt like the idea would make sense both visually and conceptually.
Where and when did you film and who did you work with?
I directed and edited myself with help from a DOP friend Andre Moonen who created the film clip for my song “Castles In The Sky”. Projector footage was archival from myself and 2 mates – Sean Boyd who did some work on a mindfulness clip I created some time ago for my vlog and a travel vlogger friend who had footage that took the visuals from being appropriate to also having a narrative.
What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of the video?
Most challenging – committing to a deadline when I know little about film clips and had zero experience working with a projector!
Most rewarding was when we realised we had a clip that didn’t just aesthetically suit the song, but had an underlying narrative that helped to amplify the message.
Who are you listening to at the moment?
Broken Bells, Lana Del Ray, Khruangbin, Tame Impala, Father John Misty, Ry Cooder, Ennio Morricone 😉
What do you like to do away from music?
Go for hikes, take in beautiful views, enjoy all the simple things with my kids, TV series binging, surfing, training
You’ll be featured on Australian Story in early August, can you give us a clue as to what we can expect?
I can definitely guarantee that I’ll be seeing it for the first time when a million others see it! I believe it showcases my experiences as a child touring the world, battling Leukaemia and later in life how I came to get back in touch with myself and my art after dealing with relatable adversities.
You have a massive Australian tour coming that’s kicking off in October followed by Bluesfest in 2021, what do you have in store for these shows?
Contrast to how I grew up playing on stage, these shows will see me play songs and tell stories as a hybrid duo (2 guitars, sampler and at times, a trumpet player). As a kid, I just wanted to play music but these days I enjoy telling a story. Whether it’s about how music helped the healing process when I was sick as a kid to not knowing who Jimmy Page was when he asked me to sign a CD for him. I’m also very open about my struggles and feats with the hope of inspiring.
How do you prepare for shows and what do you most enjoy about playing live?
That’s something I’m still working on. At the moment, after getting comfortable at sound check, I might have a nap followed by some sort of walking meditation to get my mind and body in sync. If nerves run too hot, I have mental “anchors” to help keep me grounded that are used while I shake out my body.
The moment I open my eyes after losing myself to realise that everyone was right there with me. It’s a connection that I’ve never felt off stage. To have so many different walks of life come together over a song or a story is pretty fucking special. Post-show bliss is pretty amazing too!
Any tips for aspiring musicians?
Know why you play and never lose sight of it. For me, one half of the purpose is self-expression and catharsis but equally as important is connection. This means that I not only need to ensure that I’m expressing myself in an authentic way, but the way in which I do this needs to translate! Otherwise, I’ve only satisfied one half of my purpose.
Favourite food and place to hangout?
Pizza! Fucking DF/GF so I haven’t had it in years 🙁
Takeaways on the beach.
DEMONS NATIONAL TOUR
Nathan and his team are working with all venues in line with government regulations in each state and territory, and will proceed only in accordance with safe social distancing and COVID-19 safety procedures on a show by show basis.
FRI 2 OCT | THE RHYTHM HUT, GOSFORD, NSW | ALL AGES – UNDER 18’s MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN
Tickets available from www.humantix.com.au | 02 4322 5971| Venue Outlet
SAT 3 OCT | STAG & HUNTER, NEWCASTLE, NSW | 18+
Tickets available from www.oztix.com.au | 1300 762 545 | All Oztix Outlets
FRI 9 OCT | BRASS MONKEY, CRONULLA, NSW | 18+
Tickets available from https://brassmonkey.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/18d325c7-57f4-43f7-9779-069c5f32ad7d
FRI 16 OCT | THE PEPPER TREE, ALDINGA, SA | 18+
Tickets available from www.trybooking.com | 0400 144 467 | All Trybooking Outlets
SAT 17 OCT | THE WHEATSHEAF HOTEL, ADELAIDE, SA| 18+
Tickets available from https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/6b22d472-26f5-44bb-924d-064150dd769c?utm_source=Oztix&utm_medium=Website&utm_content=EventGuide
FRI 30 OCT | CAMELOT LOUNGE, SYDNEY, NSW | ALL AGES – UNDER 18’s MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN
Tickets available from www.stickytickets.com.au | 02 9550 3777 | Venue Outlet
SAT 31 OCT | SMITHS ALTERNATIVE, CANBERRA, ACT | ALL AGES – UNDER 18’s MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN
Tickets on-sale soon
SUN 1 NOV | HERITAGE HOTEL, BULLI, NSW | 18+
Tickets available from https://codeone.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/a929a516-f7cd-4ab7-abab-fa2e8df6c7ea
THU 12 NOV | SOOKI LOUNGE, BELGRAVE VIC | 18+
Tickets available from www.oztix.com.au | 1300 762 545 | All Oztix Outlets
FR 13 NOV | THE CATFISH, FITZROY, VIC | 18+
Tickets available from www.trybooking.com | 0426 892 044 | All Trybooking Outlets
SAT 14 NOV | LIVE AT THE BUNDY, BUNDALAGUAH, VIC | ALL AGES – UNDER 18’s MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN
Tickets available from www.trybooking.com| 0429 352 373 | All Trybooking Outlets
FRI 27 NOV | THE BAROQUE ROOM, KATOOMBA, NSW | 18+
Tickets available from www.trybooking.com| 0426 892 044 | All Trybooking Outlets
SAT 3 APR, 2021 | BLUESFEST, NSW | AA
Tickets available from www.bluesfest.com.au
SUN 4 APR, 2021 | BLUESFEST, NSW | AA
Tickets available from www.bluesfest.com.au
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adelaide Guitar Festival is giving audiences a backstage pass to South Australia’s vibrant live music scene with today’s announcement of an online video series showcasing some of the state’s most talented guitarists.
Professionally filmed in the wings of Adelaide Festival Centre’s Festival Theatre, The Backstage Sessions will feature 15-minute sets from Adelaide Guitar Festival favourites along with accomplished emerging artists.
Audiences will be treated to candid performances set against the unique backdrop of memorabilia collected from previous Adelaide Festival Centre productions.
Spanning rock, jazz, blues, classical and experimental, new videos will appear weekly on Adelaide Guitar Festival’s Facebook page from Friday, July 17, until the virtual event concludes on Sunday, August 9.
Adelaide Guitar Festival Artistic Director Slava Grigoryan: “After the loss of this year’s festival, we’ve looked for alternative possibilities for engaging some of our incredible local artists in a series of mini-concerts which capture the intimacy and joy of these rare collaborations. This is an initiative which we hope to continue long after social-distancing restrictions are lifted, and we’re seeing our audiences again ‘in the flesh’. We hope you enjoy watching these as much as we enjoyed making them!”
Adelaide Festival Centre Artistic Director & CEO Douglas Gautier AM: “This month was set to see the biggest Adelaide Guitar Festival yet, with performances scheduled to take place across the state from July 1 to August 9. So to revel in the spirit of the festival that would have been, we’ve created something very special for guitar enthusiasts.
“This is an important opportunity to support South Australian musicians at a time when they have faced significant challenges in making a living out of what they do best. We hope The Backstage Sessions encourages more initiatives to help the local music industry recover from what has been a very difficult year so far.”
The line-up for The Backstage Sessions includes Chris Finnen, Cal Williams Jr & Kory Horwood; Kelly Menhennett & Band; The Tom Kneebone Trio; Mike Bevan & Alain Valodze; The Django Rowe Quintet and The Yearlings featuring Slava Grigoryan.
Videos can be viewed at facebook.com/adelaideguitarfestival and on the Adelaide Guitar Festival website. Audiences are invited to like and follow Adelaide Guitar Festival on Facebook to receive notification of the latest posts.
Visit: www.adelaideguitarfestival.com.au
FB @adelaideguitarfestival IG @ADLGuitarFest
TW @guitar_festival Hashtag #ADLGuitarFest
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
International Music Summit (IMS), the premier platform for business, culture and education in global electronic music, will present and publish the findings of the annual IMS Business Report on Thursday July 16 at 17.00 BST in an interactive Zoom webinar. The report will feature full and detailed data on the last twelve months in the electronic music industry, including the impact of the global pandemic and the total value of the industry pre and post virus.
For the first time in its ten year history the report will be debated, examined and fully dissected in a live debate directly after the sixty minute presentation by author Kevin Watson. Moderated by Billboard Dance Editor Katie Bain, the analysis will feature commentary and insight from leading industry experts, to be announced next week.
The IMS Business Report is an annual leading study that provides vital statistics on the growth of the electronic music industry across the previous twelve months. Used by professionals across the industry and referenced in widespread news reports and studies, it is an essential tool for the electronic music business. The 2020 edition will reveal the impact of the pandemic and illustrate how the electronic music industry has reacted to this turbulent and unprecedented year, helping to steer decisions that will lead to future recovery.
The report will provide a global snapshot and examination of many areas of our sector, including information on artist income, festival and club cancellations, growth markets, DSP’s, the impact of streaming and associated revenue and how electronic music is competing for a share of the global music ecosystem against other genres including Hip Hop and Rap.
Comprised of three sections, ‘In Review’ will highlight the electronic music business year pre COVID-19, including recorded music, DJs & live acts, clubs & festivals and companies & brands. ‘2020 So far’ will examine the direct impact of the pandemic, finally ‘Industry Value’ will reveal the all- important estimated value of the global electronic music industry, which in 2019 stood at $7.2bn.
Participants of the interactive webinar will be able to engage with the assembled panel of experts, ask questions, provide opinions and vote in polls. Webinar places are limited and will be filled on a first come first served basis, to join the conversation click here. The presentation and debate will also be lived streamed on IMS and Billboard Dance Facebook pages for those unsuccessful with registering for a webinar place.
DATE: Thursday 16 July
TIME:
LINK TO REGISTER: Click here
|
|
The amazing full-experience VIP Pass has an early bird price of only 1500€, and the final price of 5000€ includes:
Attendance to ALL parties and events
Backstage access at ALL events
ANDREA FERLIN | ANDRIANOS PAPADEAS | ANNA MARIA HAROKOPOU | ANUSHKA | ATB | CHEVY | CJ JEFF| COBERT LIVE | DASHA ZET | DEMI CASE opp| dOP LIVE | pEFIM KERBUT | FRANCESCO ASSENZA | FREESPIRIT | GABRIELO | G PAL | HUBBLE | GEORGE GUREN | GEORGE SERAGOS | K.ATOU | LAMINE | LIVA K | MARIKHI | MOHAMMADREZA SAFARI | MS LEUKI | ONUR OZER | PAUL VAN DYK | ROMPASSO | ROMEO BLANCO | ROUSSOS | SUNSET DEREK | SWANKY TUNES | THODORIS TRIANTAFILLOU | TOLIS Q | WHOANN etc.
GEM Fest
BON IVER – PATTI SMITH AND HER BAND – JIMMY BARNES
GEORGE BENSON – THE TESKEY BROTHERS
JOHN BUTLER – XAIVER RUDD – THE CAT EMPIRE
KOOL & THE GANG – THE GIPSY KINGS
KASEY CHAMBERS – THE WAIFS – TROY CASSAR-DALEY
MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD
THE WAILERS PERFORM SONGS FROM ‘LEGEND’
LP – MORCHEEBA – THE BLACK SORROWS
TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE
TORI KELLY – BUFFY SAINTE-MARIE
THEMARCUS KING BAND – CHRISTONE “KINGFISH” INGRAM
JIMMIE VAUGHAN – JOHN MAYALL
MELBOURNE SKA ORCHESTRA – CHAIN – LARKIN POE
WEDDINGS, PARTIES, ANYTHING – exclusive show
BACKSLIDERS – HARTS PLAYS HENDRIX – ASH GRUNWALD
THE WAR & TREATY – CORY HENRY & THE FUNK APOSTLES
WALTER TROUT – THE BAMBOOS
MICK THOMAS’ ROVING COMMISSION – DAMI IM
PIERCE BROTHERS – EMILY WURRAMARA– ROSHANI – RAY BEADLE
HENRY WAGONS – HUSSY HICKS – PACEY, KING & DOLEY
DANIEL CHAMPAGNE – NATHAN CAVALERI
LITTLE GEORGIA
BLUESFEST BUSKING COMPETITION & WINNERS
THE AUSTRALIAN AMERICANA MUSIC HONOURS
Today on Wednesday July 8th Byron Bay Bluesfest releases the largest FIRST Artist Announcement made in the history of the festival. This highly anticipated release includes many of the artists intended for this year’s event and features a total of 50 artists including the Bluesfest Busking Competition and the debut appearance of The Australian Americana Music Honours.
New additions to the top end of the bill are International folk-stars Bon Iver, the god of Aussie rock Jimmy Barnes, festival favourite Michael Franti & Spearhead, and steaming hot off their No.1 debut on the ARIA album chart last May with “Live At The Forum is none other than one of this country’s fastest rising stars The Teskey Brothers.
The Black Sorrows, Melbourne Ska Orchestra and an exclusive performance by Weddings Parties Anything; their first show since 2012, are also new top notch additions to this first announcement.
Last week’s strong start to Early Bird ticket sales clearly demonstrates people are looking forward to leaving the house so they can soak up some much needed food for the soul. The 2021 Bluesfest promises to be a safe and full festival experience running across five stages and including all the trimmings from camping to rainbow tipis, market stalls, the busking competition, great food and the perennial warm good vibes that is Byron Bay Bluesfest.
All ticket types and Add-Ons are on-sale today.
Commenting on the announcement, Festival Director, Peter Noble OAM said, “When Bluesfest 2020 was ordered by the Government to shut-down 2020 we immediately put our noses to the grindstone within days of the cancellation and got on with 2021. This Artist Announce is a testament to that fortitude. As this country’s most highly awarded music festival, we are working with Government to find the best possible outcomes for Bluesfest 2021. We want to present another great event, one that is safe and with best-practise protocols implemented on every level. We need it, the music industry needs it and the greater community needs it. Together we will find the most prudent pathway to revive the live music industry, an industry that is aching to get back to work ASAP.
I am so grateful to all the international artists who want to return and be a part of 2021 Bluesfest, to all the Australian artists and to everyone in our industry supporting us in leading the way back to live music. Above all my thanks go to the resilient Bluesfest team who have been dedicated through what has been the hardest time yet we have experienced in presenting a music festival. Bluesfest 2021 will be much more than the music on stage and the wonderful audience along with all those who present it. It will be an integral part of the return of the live music industry. Many of 2020s line up want to return, so we fulfilled that and included some surprises like Bon Iver, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Jimmy Barnes and The Teskey Brothers to name a few. It’s a long way to next Easter and by that time travel restrictions are sure to be different. In the case of no international travel I’ve programmed a damn good line up of locals and a vibrant festival experience so people can come out and play. Last week’s Early Bird ticket sales proved to me that people are keen for next year’s Bluesfest. Yes the future is uncertain for everyone, but humans need enjoyment, a place they can feel comfortable and trust they are in good hands, and Bluesfest is, and has always been that.
Northern NSW benefits greatly from the people who attend Bluesfest. The festival’s contribution to our community financially is huge and we look forward to sharing the results of the Bluesfest Economic Impact Survey in a detailed report soon.”
A SECOND ARTIST ANNOUNCEMENT is expected to follow in the Spring.
SNAPSHOT ARTIST BIOGRAPHIES
Bon Iver
When Bon Iver released ‘For Emma, Forever Ago’ in early 2008 it introduced Justin Vernon as one of the most gifted songwriters of his generation and revealed a sound that was distinct — tethered to time and to place, to a season of contemplation and the crisp, heart-strung isolation of a northern Winter. Its successor, the self-titled ‘Bon Iver, Bon Iver’, brought something more frenetic, the rise and whirr of burgeoning Spring, of hope and sap and movement. In 2016’s ‘22, A Million’, Vernon came to see something different again: “it was,” he says, “our crazy energy Summer record.”
Patti Smith and Her Band
Punk rock’s poet laureate Patti Smith ranks among the most influential female rock & rollers of all time. Ambitious, unconventional, and challenging, Smith’s music was hailed as the most exciting fusion of rock and poetry since Bob Dylan‘s heyday. If that hybrid remained distinctly un-commercial for much of her career, it wasn’t a statement against accessibility so much as the simple fact that Smith followed her muse wherever it took her, from structured rock songs to free-form experimentalism, or even completely out of music at times. Her most avant-garde outings drew a sense of improvisation and interplay from free jazz, though they remained firmly rooted in noisy, primitive, three-chord rock & roll.
Jimmy Barnes
Jimmy Barnes is the heart and the soul of Australian rock & roll. His nickname, “Barnesy”, conjures up thoughts of rock music at an ear-splitting volume, and of soul standards given a unique reading. Jimmy has been through it all, and literally lived to tell the tales. He has sold more records in Australia than any other local rock & roll artist. He has enjoyed seventeen #1 albums here – more than The Beatles – and for over 40 years he has delivered some of our most intense and iconic live performances. He is truly in a league of his own.
George Benson
Simply one of the greatest guitarists in jazz history, George Benson is an amazingly versatile musician whose adept skills find him crossing easily between straight-ahead jazz, smooth jazz, and contemporary R&B. Blessed with supreme taste, a beautiful, rounded guitar tone, terrific speed, a marvellous sense of logic in building solos, and, always, a unquenchable urge to swing. 2021 will be his Bluesfest debut.
The Teskey Brothers
Honouring that old school Motown sound and working it into something of their very own, Australian four piece The Teskey Brothers stunned many in 2017 with their gorgeous debut album ‘Half Mile Harvest’ and later made their Bluesfest debut in 2018. Their latest album ‘Live At The Forum’ debuted at No.1 on the ARIA album chart. The Teskey Brothers raw combination of Soul and Blues continue to warm the hearts of listeners all around the world.
John Butler – solo
Singer-songwriter, producer and activist, John Butler has brought a whole eco-awareness with him to Bluesfest with every one of his 13 previous visits. On this his 14th Bluesfest appearance John will be performing solo and will be featuring songs from his 2018 album, ‘Home’ as well as classic songs from his timeless repertoire.
Xavier Rudd
Xavier Rudd has captivated audiences for two decades. Nothing compares to experiencing him in live in concert. Every show is a unique and exciting experience. His socially conscious Indie-Folk has been a vessel for his spirit, narrating the journey of a composer with a gift for channeling life into song. Over the course of nine studio albums and eight live records Xavier’s beloved songs of spirituality, humanity, environmentalism and human rights have resonated with the Bluesfest audience and he will no doubt receive a warm, loving reception when he returns to the stage in 2021.
The Cat Empire
Formed in Melbourne, Australia and adored the world over, The Cat Empire are a musical success story that continues to be written. It seems The Cat Empire brand of feel-good, high-energy, smile-inducing, euphoric roots pop has a global address when it comes to the winning of hearts of many.
Kool & The Gang
Formed in the mid-’60s, Kool & the Gang became one of the most inspired and influential funk units during the ’70s, and one of the most popular R&B groups of the ’80s after their breakout hit ‘Celebration’ in 1979. They remain one of the coolest funkiest bands alive and Bluesfesters are sure to get their groove on like never before.
The Gipsy Kings
The Gipsy Kings have spent a remarkable two-and-a-half decades at the top, in a category that’s all their own. Yet in those occasional periods when they aren’t touring, the band members still live with their families in the south of France, the area that defined their identities and their sound. Each time, they return to their isolated enclave, and then recreate the experience of immigrants coming to a new land.
Kasey Chambers
Music seems to be a part of Kasey Chambers DNA, with 12 award winning albums under her belt since the release of ‘The Captain’ in 1999, Kasey’s brilliant songwriting and world-class performance have earned her a rightful position on the global country artist stage. Often described as a genre-defying singer and songwriter, she wears the honesty of country music on her sleeve, and has become one of the most popular and acclaimed artists of her generation in Australia while winning a devoted cult following in the rest of the world. In 2018 Kasey’s exceptional career was honoured by being the youngest female ever to be inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. Kasey and her band will play all of her much-loved songs from ‘The Captain’ and ‘Barricades & Brickwalls’ all the way through her career to now, in a very special festival performance not to be missed.
The Waifs
A trip that began in a van in 1992, playing gigs anywhere in Australia that would have them has led the Waifs to multiple ARIA Awards, platinum albums and successful tours across the world. With a career spanning more than 25 years off the back of relentless touring and ground-breaking records such as ‘Up All Night’ and ‘A Brief History’, the hard yards in those early days paid off in terms of their career, but also bound them together as friends creating a captivating live dynamic on stage.
Troy Cassar-Daley
Troy Cassar-Daley has released 10 studio albums throughout his thirty years of making music. He comes from a long line of storytellers and shares his musicianship with so many artists across different styles of music. His passion to pen stories about this land and what lies at the heart of it has been a driving force in his career.
Michael Franti & Spearhead
Michael Franti is a musician, humanitarian, filmmaker, and activist who is recognized as a pioneering force in the music industry. He believes that there is a great battle taking place in the world today between cynicism and optimism, so he made his most recent album, ‘Stay Human Vol. II’, his highest charting album to date, to remind himself – and anyone who’s listening – that there is still good in the world and that it is worth fighting for. And the Bluesfest crowd are always right there with him.
The Wailers Perform Songs From ‘Legend’
The Wailers are true living legends. To see them, to be there in the room with them, is to take a real slice of music history and heritage. For a limited time The Wailers will be performing classic cuts and huge hits from Bob Marley’s incredible back catalogue. When Bob Marley, the man himself, instructs you to “keep The Wailers together”, musicians and music fans alike take note. A stunning line up, featuring genuine reggae royalty and heir to the throne, Aston Barrett Jr (son of the legendary ‘Familyman’) and guitarist Donald Kinsey will conjure the spirit of reggae in the way that only they can in a show that is absolutely not to be missed.
LP
Part Feist and part Joan Jett, genre-bucking Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter LP emerged in the early 2000s with a vibrant blend of vulnerability, swagger, and steely hooks. Known for her elastic and expressive voice, which invokes names like Linda Perry, Gwen Stefani, and Chrissie Hynde. Her top tracks ‘Lost on You’ and ‘When We’re High’ are sure to be showstoppers when performed live at 2021 Bluesfest.
Morcheeba
Morcheeba are Skye Edwards and Ross Godfrey. They formed the band along with Ross’ brother Paul in 1995 and have sold over 10 million albums and toured the world to the delight of their fans over the last two decades. Skye has one of the most recognisable voices on the planet, hearing her smooth, effortless tone teamed with Ross’ psychedelic guitar is an unforgettable, spellbinding experience.
The Black Sorrows
Fronted by long standing Australian musician Joe Camilleri The Black Sorrows began playing semi-acoustic sets around Melbourne and released several laid-back albums which consisted of Van Morrison, John Lee Hooker, and Ray Peterson covers, as well as originals. The album ‘Dear Children’ marked a change in fortune for the Black Sorrows. After being issued independently, it was picked up by CBS and peaked at number 18 on the Australian national charts. Legends!
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Part Jimi Hendrix, part James Brown and all New Orleans, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews is a singular artist who puts his own spin on traditional American musical forms. Andrews is the bandleader and frontman of Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, a nine-piece hard-edged funk band that employs brass-band beats, rock dynamics and improvisation in a jazz tradition. NPR hailed him as “New Orleans’ brightest new star in a generation,” and New York Magazine says, “Trombone Shorty takes in a century-plus worth of sounds—ragtime and jazz and gospel and soul and R&B and hip-hop—and attacks everything he plays with festive fervor.” His 2017 Blue Note debut ‘Parking Lot Symphony’ contains multitudes of sound—from brass band blare and deep-groove funk to bluesy beauty and hip-hop swagger—and plenty of emotion all anchored by stellar playing and the idea that, even in the toughest of times, as Shorty says, “Music brings unity.”
Tori Kelly
An emotive, gospel- and R&B-influenced singer/songwriter, Tori Kelly initially attracted fans online before gaining wider fame with her 2012 independent breakthrough Handmade Songs by Tori Kelly. Buoyed by the hit single ‘Should’ve Been Us’, Kelly’s major-label follow-up, 2015’s ‘Unbreakable Smile’, fared even better, landing at number two on the Billboard 200. Since then, she has further embraced her Christian faith, as heard on 2018’s Hiding Place, which won the Grammy Award for Best Gospel Album. Tori will make her Bluesfest debut in 2021 and we cannot wait!
Buffy Sainte-Marie
Sainte-Marie has spent her whole life creating, and her artistry, humanitarian efforts, and Indigenous leadership have made her a unique force in the music industry. In 1969, she made one of the world’s first electronic vocal albums; in 1982 she became the only Indigenous person to win an Oscar; she spent five years on Sesame Street where she became the first woman to breastfeed on national television. She’s been blacklisted and silenced. She’s written pop standards sung and recorded by the likes of Janis Joplin, Elvis Presley, Donovan, Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes. She penned ‘Universal Soldier’, the definitive anti-war anthem of the 20th century. She is an icon.
The Marcus King Band
After a sell-out Australian tour in 2019 along with packed out performances at Bluesfest’s 30th Anniversary, The Marcus King Band are making a welcome return to Australia in 2021. The young musical phenomenon characterizes his own music as ‘soul-influenced psychedelic, southern rock’ and his soaring guitar work and blistering soulful band create a dynamic unit that took the collective Bluesfest breath away.
Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram
With both eyes on the future and the blues in his blood, visionary 20-year-old guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Christone “Kingfish” Ingram is set to take the music world by storm. Sprung from the same earth as so many of the Delta blues masters, Kingfish comes bursting out of Clarksdale, MS. Playing guitar since age 13, Kingfish has grown his audience organically. His mentor, Buddy Guy, has been publicly praising Kingfish and guests on the new album, as does Keb’ Mo’. Funk musician Bootsy Collins began sharing Kingfish’s YouTube videos – some with millions of views each – explaining, “this is how a child can influence others.”
Jimmie Vaughan
When it comes to the Blues today, there are a handful of guiding lights to make sure the music stays true to its powerful source. The sound of pleasure and pain that first sparked musicians to create such a sound is a force that can never be underestimated. The mojo has to be there. For Jimmie Vaughan, he’s dedicated his life to making sure the blues not only stays alive, but remains full of life and an inspiration to all who listen. It’s a spirit he holds close to him, and for over 50 years of holding the blues close inside him, Vaughan isn’t about to stop now.
John Mayall
Often referred to as “The Godfather of British Blues,” John Mayall has an impressive musical career that spans over 50 years. The English Blues singer, pianist, harmonica player, guitarist, and songwriter founded the band, ‘John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers’ in the 1960’s—a band whose members included many celebrated blues and blues rock guitarists, such as: Eric Clapton, Peter Green, Jack Bruce, Mick Taylor, Walter Trout, Coco Montoya and Buddy Whittington.
Melbourne Ska Orchestra
Bluesfest faves the Melbourne Ska Orchestra are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to the stage. Audiences will be blown away by up to 25 musicians performing at a time, and the joyous, energetic vibe of a Melbourne Ska Orchestra gig is one that must be seen to be believed.
Chain
Over 40 musicians have been a member of Chain, one of Australia’s premier blues bands that has been going strong for over three decades. As the only Blues band to have a number one on Australian charts with ‘Black’n’Blue’ as well as a number two with ‘Judgement’, they also have the distinction of having possibly the longest permanently released album in Australian rock history.
Larkin Poe
Rebecca & Megan Lovell of Larkin Poe are singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist sisters creating their own brand of Roots Rock ‘n’ Roll: gritty, soulful, and flavoured by their southern heritage. Originally from Atlanta and currently living in Nashville, they are descendants of tortured artist and creative genius Edgar Allan Poe.
Wedding Parties Anything – exclusive show for Bluesfest
The last time they pulled on the boots was 2012 when they were inducted into ‘The Age EG Hall of Fame’ in their hometown Melbourne. In spite of this absence the demand for them to reunite has remained strong and so, for the people in the band it’s simply a matter of the time feeling right. In the wake of a catastrophic year such as 2020, the chance to be part of something as classic and iconic and enduring as Weddings, Parties, Anything, the opportunity to perform at 2021 Bluesfest was just too tempting so the band will perform exclusively next Easter.
Backsliders
The Australian blues-based act, Backsliders have been playing, touring the festival circuit and recording for over years. Slide Guitarist, multi-stringed instrumentalist, songwriter and vocalist, Dom Turner, is the founding member of the group. Drum and percussion virtuoso and songwriter Rob Hirst (Midnight Oil) is an acclaimed name synonymous with the best of Australian music. Joining Dom and Rob some of Australia’s most innovative and dynamic harmonica players; ARIA award winning Ian Collard (Collard, Greens & Gravy), as well as younger prodigy, Joe Glover, and the legendary Broderick Smith (Dingoes, Carson, Big Combo).
Harts Plays Hendrix
Harts made his Bluesfest debut in 2016 where the sound of his astounding guitar wizardry pulsating from inside the Mojo tent drew people like bees to honey. Instantly he became a Bluesfest fave. When he returned to Bluesfest in 2018 he had been wowing crowds across the country. The Indian-born, Australian-based musician, singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and music producer blends funk, blues, psychedelic rock, jazz, and indie electronic and has drawn comparisons to Prince, Jimi Hendrix and Lenny Kravitz. He returns to 2021 Bluesfest performing HARTS PLAYS HENDRIX.
Ash Grunwald
After emerging from Australia’s blues and roots rock scene in the early 2000s, Ash Grunwald’s solo guitar-and-stompbox sets became a mainstay at festivals across the country. A student of the Delta blues and pioneers of electric blues, his contemporary spin on classic influences and soulful, wide-ranging vocals has earned him multiple ARIA Music Award nominations.
The War & Treaty
As The War and Treaty, Michael and Tanya Trotter heal and steal pain with freewheeling joy on new full-length album, ‘Healing Tide’. Produced by Buddy Miller, funky bass lines, keys, lap steel, acoustic strings, and stripped-down percussion create a swampy Southern soul bed for the couple’s transcendent vocals. “I want people to feel like we care,” Michael says. “When you think about artists, you don’t think about that.” He pauses and grins broadly. “But that’s the way I want the world to feel about The War and Treaty.”
Cory Henry and the Funk Apostles
Cory Henry and The Funk Apostles is his newest passion and project, comprised of five of the world’s best musicians, hand picked to bring his musical concepts to life. His solo wizardry and charismatic nature have garnered millions of views via YouTube and other social platforms, giving birth to a rabid fan base excited for what’s to come. The upcoming self-titled ‘Cory Henry and The Funk Apostles’ album exhibits his vocal talents and emphasizes the new sound and vibes he wants to innovate for the world to sing along with. When it comes to ‘discovery acts’ this show is a must-see.
Walter Trout
Over the course of the last several decades, Walter Trout has been a prolific artist. He’s regularly released offerings from the studio, so this moment of offering a covers album is somewhat of a curveball. His 2017 all-star release, ‘We’re All In This Together’, shows no sign of burning out and continues to receive accolades and sales on a global basis, alongside four awards for Blues Rock Album Of The Year.
The Bamboos
Australian soul group the Bamboos progressed from bare-bones deep funk revivalists to a more ambitious, mature act, stepping up the production values and scoring radio hits in their native country. Not only will they be celebrating their 20th Anniversary as a band, but they are primed to perform new music from their 10th studio album at 2021 Bluesfest.
Mick Thomas’ Roving Commission
Running along side Mick’s current band the Roving Commission is a whole raft of projects such as the magnum opus theatre piece The Vandemonian Lags (featuring Tim Rogers, Brian Nankervis, Liz Stringer among others). There’s more theatre work in development coupled with the running of a boutique inner city music venue (The Merri Creek Tavern). It would be too easy for Mick to revive and live his life in the shadow of his iconic seemingly never to be forgotten band Weddings, Parties, Anything but more than ever it comes down to the shows he’s doing now and the songs he is about to write and record -and so let us finish with a quote from a former director of The Port Fairy Folk Festival Jamie McKew OAM: “ Mick Thomas has some secret magic to his writing…he surely can write great songs that make you say “why didn’t I think of that?” But of course we never do. He can roll up to any crappy stage and make it the centre of the universe to any audience. Mick is the real deal, no doubt about that!
Dami Im
Dami Im is one of the most revered artists of the new millennium. A virtuoso on piano, she also has a Master of Music Studies in Contemporary Voice. The Australian singer-songwriter first came to national prominence when she won The X Factor. Her self-titled debut album & single ‘Alive’ both debuted at #1 on the ARIA charts. Since then she has released three more acclaimed studio albums & performed all over the world. In 2016 Dami became Eurovision Royalty when she earned the highest score ever achieved by an Australian entry, and her single ‘Sound of Silence’ charted globally.
The Pierce Brothers
Pierce Brothers have taken their unique brand of folk music from busking on the streets of Melbourne to touring the world. Comprising of twin brothers Jack and Pat Pierce, the multi-instrumentalists have been shaking dance floors and selling out rooms across UK, Europe, Canada, USA and their native Australia. Their irresistible energy and world class live show has generated a word of mouth buzz not seen for some time.
Emily Wurramara
Emily Wurramara’s childhood was one of water and music. Growing up on Groote Eylandt, days were filled with travel, fishing and extended family, a mother telling stories of dreams and dolphins that would one day become the seeds of Emily’s music. In almost the blink of an eye the young fresh faced artist who debuted her breakout EP ‘Black Smoke’ in 2016, has matured into a now seasoned award winning Indigenous performer and a proud new mum with her own stories to pass down to her daughter, K’iigari.
Roshani
From dirt-poor beginnings in Sri Lanka to explosive multi-instrumental one-woman prodigy, the music of ROSHANI is as captivating and uplifting as her life story. Her father the village drummer, her mother the singer, impoverished and with no hope, had to give ROSHANI up for adoption. At 6 weeks old fate led her to the other side of the world, to a musical family living in the music capital that is Tamworth.
Ray Beadle
Ray Beadle is the genuine article, his music comes deep from the heart and soul, stirring emotions in people with his guitar genius. Ray’s music is rich with a deep history of the Blues; Rich from 20 years of experiences garnered from performing Nationally and Internationally; Ray has a deep understanding of his instrument and how to make it stir something within the listener. He knows that’s what the Blues is about and Bluesfesters have known that since day dot when he made his debut way back in 2010.
Henry Wagons
Henry Wagons performs and presents with a disarming and friendly ease that can only come from years of performing on hundreds of stages around the world as one of Australia’s most gifted musicians, performers and TV/radio hosts. Whether delivering from a script or speaking off the cuff, Henry makes it his own, with youthful charm and humour that can engage a distracted crowd. The man is a master craftsman of the stage, he speaks with weight and knowledge that can convince a more cultured audience and carves out his place upon it like no other.
Hussy Hicks
Critically acclaimed Australian act, prolific and accomplished musicians, Hussy Hicks have honed their sonic dexterity over the past 12 years from Australia’s biggest blues, roots and folk festivals to 15 plus international tours, which now sell out across Europe. Known for their emotive lyricism, energetic live shows and fiery, frenetic instrumentation, it’s no surprise Hussy Hicks have staying power.
Pacey, King & Doley
The Sydney Blues Society 2019 Best Male Vocalist and Best Song Writer SHANE PACEY has had a stellar 4-decade career fronting The Bondi Cigars, Foreday Riders and Shane Pacey Trio. He is loved by audiences all over this land. SALLY KING is blessed with an irresistibly authentic voice and vibrant stage presence. Whether singing her own songs or putting a unique stamp on classics, audiences warm instantly to Sally’s passion. 2019 Sydney Blues keyboard player of the year CLAYTON DOLEY is a killer boogie-woogie player and a super funky Hammond player who has played with some of the biggest names in the business including Steve Cropper, Joe Bonamassa and Harry Manx.
Daniel Champagne
Daniel Champagne exudes a natural ease on stage, as he sings poignant lyrics and beautifully crafted melodies that invariably whisk the heart up with grand romanticism. Coupled with an exhilarating guitar talent that transcends mere acoustic playing to replicate a whole band, Champagne is just magical. Daniel began writing songs at 12, training classically throughout his teens and performing solo wherever he could, honing his craft and developing what would become the dynamite live show that he is renowned for today.
Nathan Cavaleri
Many were oblivious to the career Nathan Cavaleri led beyond prime time TV in Australia. By age 12, he found himself the centre of a bidding war between the labels of Michael Jackson, Prince and Madonna. By age 16, he’d toured with B.B. King and played at the Kennedy Centre in front of The Clintons with Etta James and Bonnie Raitt. All after winning his battle with Leukaemia.
Little Georgia
Australian grunge-tinged epic band Little Georgia return after spending the last year and a half touring between Australia and North America, growing their sound and their audiences by appearing at Americana Fest and Folk Alliance, now gracing the Bluesfest stage in 2021.
The Australian Americana Music Honours
Bluesfest the premiere Blues & Roots festival is proud to announce the annual Australian Americana Music Honours (AAMH), an event where artists come together to collaborate and celebrate Blues, Roots & Americana Music. The event has proudly partnered with, and is relocating to Bluesfest, produced by celebrated Nashville based Australian music producer Nash Chambers for the Americana Music Association in Nashville. Artists originally scheduled to perform this year will return in 2021 along with International guests yet to be announced.
Bluesfest Busking Competition & Winners
Every year the cream of Australia’s street-corner talent rolls into Byron Bay to compete in the Bluesfest Busking Competition. Said to be the No. 1 busking competition in the country where winners get a prize spot on the Bluesfest stage (and so much more). Much is at stake for these aspiring stars and the quality is always platinum. Winners like Kim Churchill, Hussy Hicks, Minnie Marks and Marshall O’Kell have gone on to carve out successful careers in the music industry. Check out tomorrow’s stars – today.