Byron Bay Bluesfest 2019 may still feel like it’s light years away, but it will be here before you know it. There’s nothing worse than rocking up to a festival and not knowing who’s a must-see.
Festivals can be nightmares if you’re not properly organised. We thought we could give you a little push in the right direction and let you know our top picks for this one in particular, just in case you’re out of the loop.
Byron Bay Bluesfest is creeping up slowly. Get yourself familiar with these 5 artists now to avoid any awkward crowd encounters.
Mojo Juju
Melbourne-based singer Mojo Juju transcends labels. Juju, by her own explanation, has never felt comfortable with being categorised. It is through the dynamic performance that Mojo Juju must be experienced – words do no justice.
Lyrically, Mojo Juju confronts themes of alienation and detachment from culture; Juju is of both Wiradjuri and Filipino heritage. Catch Mojo Juju playing both days over the weekend; once on Saturday and again on Sunday.
Kurt Vile and the Violators
The former War on Drugs lead guitarist has now forged a healthy solo career spanning over eleven albums. Kurt Vile’s latest album, Bottle It In, was released last month and has since received worldwide critical acclaim.
Last year’s collaboration with everyone’s favourite Melbournite Courtney Barnett on Lotta Sea Lice cemented Vile’s reputation as a trailblazer in the current indie scene. Kurt Vile and the Violators are playing twice over Bluesfest, on Thursday and again on Saturday.
Melody Angel
Hailing from the ‘burbs of Chicago, Melody Angel is a self-taught guitarist and singer-songwriter who first debuted at Bluesfest back in 2017. Her original songs are powerful, dark and evocative, and her covers give new energy to old favourites.
Angel is playing every day over Bluesfest; make sure you catch at least one of her sets.
George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic
Make sure you check out George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic’s final ever Australian performances, given the legendary musician is set to retire in May next year.
In his fifty-plus year career, Clinton has earned himself the title of Grandfather of Funk, having produced Freaky Styley for the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, collaborated with Kendrick Lamar, Primal Scream, Sly Stone, Carlos Santana, Outkast, Wu-Tang Clan, Tupac, plus many more.
George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic are playing on Sunday and again on Monday. This is a show not to be missed!
Meshell Ndegeocello
Meshell Ndegeocello has amassed ten Grammy nominations over the course of her career, a massive feat for any performer. Be sure to catch the jack-of-all-trades musician, bassist, rapper, singer and all-around superstar’s debut Bluesfest performance in 2019.
Ndegeocello has been credited in helping to create the neo-soul movement, and her latest album Ventriloquism was released earlier this year. Ndegeocello is only playing one show on Sunday. With so many accolades, we’re excited to see what she has in store.
Byron Bay Bluesfest takes place on Thursday 18 – Monday 22 April 2019 at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm. Grab your tickets here.
