Rebecca, Author at Blues on Broadbeach

Take Me To The River: Celebrating 10 Years at Blues on Broadbeach!

Posted on May 10, 2024 by Rebecca

It wouldn’t be a rhythm and blues festival without a touch of Memphis magic!

Coming to Blues on Broadbeach in 2024 are Memphis legends Hi Rhythm Section with Boo Mitchell, who’ll be bringing their 10th anniversary celebration of the critically acclaimed documentary ‘Take Me To The River’ to the Gold Coast!

Performing music from the hit documentary on Friday 17 May, this is the ultimate, authentic blues music experience you won’t want to miss. Keep reading to discover more on this incredible session!

TAKE ME TO THE RIVER

Take Me To The River is a 2014 documentary celebrating the intergenerational and interracial musical influence of Memphis, in the face of pervasive discrimination and segregation.

The critically acclaimed documentary brings together multiple generations of award-winning Memphis musicians and follows the creative process of recording a historic new album.

The film re-imagines the utopia of the racial, gender and generational collaboration of Memphis in its heyday and has become a critically acclaimed documentary.

Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Boo Mitchell who is the son of legendary Hi Records and Al Green producer Willie Mitchell, the documentary certainly has no shortage of blues music icons.

“I still remember my first session for Take Me To The River, and where we started to where we finished was so different. It was a life changing experience for me. I started going through my roller decks and calling people that were like my uncles and next thing I know I’m recording William Bell, Bobby Rush, Otis Clay and eventually Snoop Dogg.” – Boo Mitchell

HI RHYTHM SECTION

Take Me To The River combined the past and present of the legendary Memphis music scene for the ultimate collaboration. One of the artists featured was Hi Rhythm Section, who are considered by some as the best musicians that Memphis has ever produced.

Constructed around three talented brothers by Hi Records producer Willie Mitchell during the late 1960s, they became the house band for the label and played across hit soul albums by several artists including Al Green and Ann Peebles. Comprised of Mabon Hodges (guitarist), Leroy Hodges (bassist), Charles Hodges (organist), Howard Grimes (drummer), and Archie Turner (pianist), the band has played on 26 consecutive gold and platinum records and countless chart hits.

From the 60s till now, there’s no doubt that the Memphis music scene has changed and adapted in various ways, but according to Boo, not everything has changed.

“It’s a very different music scene in Memphis today. There’s a lot of newer genres that didn’t exist back then like indie-rock and hip hop. But the one thing that has remained constant the whole time is Hi Rhythm Section. They’re still making incredible music, they’re still performing the hits and they’re still making records with younger, newer artists. They are the common denominator of Memphis.”

And in true Take Me To The River fashion, Hi Rhythm Section will be joined by a newer generation of artists this May in the forms of guitarist Lina Beach and vocalist Jerome Chism. Together, you can be sure to hear all the classic Memphis soul songs you know and love.

If you don’t want to miss this incredible show at Blues on Broadbeach, be sure to download the official festival app and add Hi Rhythm Section with Boo Mitchell to your personal schedule!

And for our 2024 Twelve Bar Society members, an exclusive members-only screening of the documentary will be on Saturday 18 May from 10am – 12pm, followed by a Q&A with Boo Mitchell, Film Director Martin Shore, Hi Rhythm Section original band member Rev. Charles Hodges and newest member Lina Beach.

If you’re keen to take a deep dive into all things soul, blues and Memphis, you’re in for a real treat! Twelve Bar Society members – be sure to add this session to your personal program within the app!

Jon Cleary: Blending Blues, Funk and Soul

Posted on May 2, 2024May 2, 2024 by Rebecca

In the world of blues music, there are certain artists who don’t just perform and play tunes – they build masterpieces that stick around for generations. Among these artists is Jon Cleary and his band ‘The Absolute Monster Gentlemen’ – and guess what? They’re hitting up Blues on Broadbeach in just two weeks!

Jon Cleary is no stranger to the music scene. Originally a guitarist, Cleary began playing at age five, and started his own band at fifteen. With a career now stretching back for decades, he’s carved out his place as a true master of New Orleans-style piano and a gifted songwriter.

And the way he mixes up blues, funk, and soul? It’s refreshingly original. What’s even more impressive is that Cleary has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, ranging from blues legends like Bonnie Raitt and Taj Mahal to modern icons such as Eric Clapton.

His versatility and infectious energy have garnered him widespread acclaim throughout the industry. Leading his own band, ‘The Absolute Monster Gentleman,’ they have crafted and released six impressive albums. Among them, their album ‘Go Go Juice’ won a Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music Album in the 58th Annual Grammy Awards.

Mark your calendars for 16-19 May and get ready to witness Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen on stage! In the meantime, we spoke with the man himself to discuss just what they have in store for us this May!

What can fans expect from your performance at Blues on Broadbeach, do you have anything special planned?

Fans can expect that rare pleasure of being lifted up by being in close proximity to musicians from New Orleans doing what they do – and doing it really well.

We play a style of groove that has been passed down through the generations. Transforming and evolving for over a hundred years it has at its heart, funk and soul – with a premium on excellent musicianship. My band is comprised of the top players in the city, both artists and artisans. Brilliant players that can convey the spirit and soul. It’s the most powerful drug in the world – and, it’s good for you.

Who came up with the name ‘The Absolute Monster Gentlemen’ and what was the meaning behind it?

Johnny ‘Guitar’ Watson came up with the name and I think it suits our style perfectly. What we do is cultured and elegant but in a monstrous sort of way. It’s rough and dirty but sophisticated and elegant.

The fans are super excited to see you back in Australia, how does it feel to bring the vibe and energy of New Orleans all around the world?

We tour constantly around the globe, playing to both long-time fans and people who are hearing our style of Creole New Orleans r’n’b and funk for the first time. It’s a joy to see how every night the sound of this joyful music never fails. It lights up a room and plugs a voltage direct into the hearts and minds, feet and hips. We’re cultural ambassadors of New Orleans, our little port city here on the Mississippi river at the Gulf of Mexico and we get as much of a kick out of the grooves as everyone else!

Performing at Victoria Park on Sunday 19 May from 7.30pm, be sure to download the official festival app to add Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen to your personal schedule!

Join Fat Freddy’s Drop at Blues on Broadbeach 2024!

Posted on April 23, 2024April 23, 2024 by Rebecca

Returning for their only Australian show of 2024, Fat Freddy’s Drop is coming to Blues on Broadbeach for the Kurrawa Park Sunday Ticket!

Held at Kurrawa Park on Sunday 19 May, fans of the New Zealand electronic-reggae-soul group, along with Tijuana Cartel and BOOMCHILD will get to enjoy an even bigger festival program, and enjoy a brand-new festival experience that will take Blues on Broadbeach to the next level!

Located directly next to the gorgeous Kurrawa Beach in the heart of the Gold Coast, how much better can it get?! Well, we caught up with Chopper Reeds, saxophone player for Fat Freddy’s Drop to give us a teaser on what the band has in store this May and let’s just say it’s going to be epic!

Founded in the club scene of Wellington New Zealand in 1999, Fat Freddy’s Drop have established themselves internationally as one of the world’s finest live draws. The seven-piece band draws inspiration from almost every part of the black music lexicon, with their sound characterised by any combination of rhythm & blues, dub, reggae, soul, and jazz.

Making their much anticipated return to Australia this May, the Kurrawa Park Sunday Ticket at Blues on Broadbeach will be the band’s only Australian show of the year.

“Without a world of a lie, we really do love coming over the ditch to play. The audiences in Australia are ALWAYS full of energy and we feel that on stage – and around the whole show day to be honest. We haven’t been to the Gold Coast for a looong time – and haven’t been to this festival before, so playing somewhere new always adds to the occasion. Hopefully Fred-Heads from further afield will make the trip up to see us too.”

Known for their soul-drenched vocals and euphoric sonics that demand to be experienced, it’s no wonder their fiercely independent music has sold in excess of three quarters of a million. When asked if the band are planning anything special for the show, Chopper’s words have got us eager for more!

“Well the very fact we’re playing live will be a bit special. We’re deep in ‘studio mode’ working on material for a new album and have kept the gig workload very light over summer, so the chance to perform again is great. We’ll be bringing a set of tunes that cover the history of the band – from deep classics that stretch back nearly 20 years to some freshies that we’ve only played live a few times.”

With VIP tickets already sold out, Kurrawa Park is set to be pumping with BOOMCHILD and Tijuana Cartel starting the day off strong ahead of what’s sure to be an incredible Fat Freddy’s Drop set.

Heading on stage from 6:45pm on Sunday 19 May, whether you’re a die-hard ‘Fred-Head’ or a newbie to the modern institution that is Fat Freddy’s Drop, we know you’ll definitely have a good time regardless.

“I’ve described us before as an un-holy mix of swampy blues, soulful dub and techno – that’s still pretty relevant to this day I’d say. I think one of our main aims when we perform live is to take the audience along with us on a journey that moves through all those elements – so that before you know it you’re dancing around with Hopepa (our trombone man) in a conga line.”

Be sure to secure your Kurrawa Park Sunday Ticket early to be part of all the excitement! General Admission tickets are on sale now for $119 + booking fee, available on Oztix only.

Plus, with pass-outs available for all ticket holders, you can also enjoy all the amazing non-ticketed performances located throughout Broadbeach on Sunday and every other day of the festival.

Download the 2024 festival app now to see all that’s on offer from 16-19 May!

Check out these breweries & distilleries while at Blues on Broadbeach!

Posted on April 22, 2024April 19, 2024 by Rebecca

Returning to the Gold Coast from 16-19 May 2024, the 23rd annual Blues on Broadbeach is set to be another massive year celebrating the best homegrown and international rhythm & blues talent.

Featuring artists like Melissa Etheridge, Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, Ana Popovic, Eric Bibb, Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen and many more on the non-ticketed lineup, we’ve got the music taken care of – that’s for sure!

And when the blues are playin’, the drinks are sure to be flowin’ too! Lucky for you, the Gold Coast is blessed with a huge selection of breweries and distilleries to satisfy all your beer and whiskey cravings!

YOU DON’T NEED TO WANDER FAR!

In case you forgot, the festival is right in the heart of the Gold Coast! With Broadbeach filled with bars and restaurants on every street, a good drink won’t be hard to find.

If you’re a beer lover, head to Harajuku Gyoza Beer Stadium for a glass of delicious Japanese craft beer or head to The Lucky Squire for a wide selection of quality craft beers brewed right on site at their two-storey brew house. And the best part? As one of our partnered venues, you can enjoy some quality live blues right from your table.

WANT TO TASTE THE LOCAL BREWS?

Made with love right here on the Gold Coast, come and have a taste of the unique selection of ales, pilsners, lagers, stouts and sours. From Burleigh Heads down to Currumbin, the list of local watering holes are endless.

Some iconic names you may know include Burleigh Brewing, Black Hops Brewing, Balter Brewing and more, so make sure to venture out to the rest of the coast for a cheeky beer tasting – or two!

CAN’T HAVE BLUES WITHOUT WHISKEY.

Whiskey and blues are a lifelong match made in heaven and a quick search will show you an incredible list of whiskey bars scattered throughout Broadbeach and the rest of the Gold Coast.

Take a sip of some of the best whiskeys from around the world, or keep it local with locally produced liquors at distilleries like Granddad Jack’s, Capricorn Distilling Co and more.

With the 2024 festival program and app now available, you can start planning your must-see/sip list soon for the ultimate rhythm & blues coastal getaway!

Are you ready for some whiskey, brews and blues this May? We know we are! Check out the full lineup below to see all the incredible artists joining us this year.

Blues on Broadbeach 2024 Program & App is here!

Posted on April 19, 2024April 19, 2024 by Rebecca

Back for the 23rd year, the Gold Coast is set to transform into a rhythm and blues mecca from 16-19 May 2024!

Featuring over 65 international and homegrown artists plus 16 indoor and outdoor stages, there’s going to be plenty of live rhythm & blues throughout the four days. With the festival program and app now live, check it out for yourself and start planning your festival!

Amongst the jam-packed non-ticketed program include US headliners Melissa Etheridge, who will be playing a rockin’ two hour show on Saturday night, in what’s sure to be one of the many highlights of the festival.

Other international acts making their way down under include Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, Ana Popovic, Eric Bibb, Hi Rhythm Section with Boo Mitchell and Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen plus more – all true titans of the contemporary blues world.

“Australia is a very special place for the Absolute Monster Gentlemen and we can’t wait to return and bring some New Orleans funk to Blues on Broadbeach. We’ve been through the area before, but this is our first appearance at the festival and we intend to deliver soulful, funky rhythm & blues – real music played real good, and a whole lot of fun. Did I mention funky? See you on the Gold Coast!” – Jon Cleary

Not to worry though as there’ll be no shortage of national and local talent, with festival favourite 8 Ball Aitken & Friends returning for a special All Star Blues Jam on Sunday 19 May.

Gold Coast local Karl S. Williams is also back on the bill and will be opening the stage for Melissa Etheridge on Saturday night.

“It’s hard to overstate how invaluable it has been for my career as an artist to play this festival which is so widely loved and respected. Now I am overawed to be not only asked back, but given the main stage before Melissa Etheridge, who surely stands among the greatest of the aforementioned greats! This is an immense honour and a privilege for which I am endlessly grateful.”- Karl S. Williams

Another exciting addition this year is the Kurrawa Park Sunday Ticket, a festival first that features New Zealand electronic-reggae-soul pioneers Fat Freddy’s Drop, alongside Tijuana Cartel and BOOMCHILD, who’ll all be performing exclusively at Kurrawa Park on Sunday 19 May.

With VIP tickets already sold out, if you’d like to expand your Blues on Broadbeach programming even further don’t forget to secure your ticket now!

Apart from the six outdoor stages located through the Broadbeach precinct, a further 10 Partnered Venues will also be delivering live music in-venue so you can grab a meal or a drink without missing on the jam-packed programming!

With so much going on across 16-19 May, make sure you don’t miss out on your favourite acts during the festival! Be sure to download the Blues on Broadbeach 2024 festival app on the App Store or Google Play to build out your own schedule.

Massive second lineup announced for Blues on Broadbeach 2024!

Posted on March 6, 2024 by Rebecca

Back for the 23rd year, Blues on Broadbeach 2024 is gearing up to be another massive celebration of rhythm & blues in the heart of the Gold Coast!

With over 60 artists now announced as part of the festival’s non-ticketed lineup, take a look below to see the incredible talent who are now joining Melissa Etheridge, Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, Ana Popovic, Eric Bibb and many more!

Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen (USA)

Leading the second lineup is New Orleans based, Grammy award winners
Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen. As a respected session and sideman, Jon has worked with plenty of rock, blues and soul artists like Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal and Eric Clapton before going on to form the award-winning band and we can’t wait to hear their blues, jazz and soulful grooves in Broadbeach!

Take Me to the River featuring Hi Rhythm Section with Boo Mitchell (USA)

Coming straight from the home of blues, the acclaimed Hi Rhythm Section are coming together with multi-instrumentalist Lina Beach, soulful vocalist Jerome Chism and Grammy award-winning producer Boo Mitchell – son of legendary Hi Records and Al Green producer, Willie Mitchell. This all-star collective will be celebrating 10 years of the critically acclaimed documentary ‘Take Me To The River’, with songs from the film to be performed for the band’s only public performance in Australia.

Dallas Frasca

Known for her almighty presence on the mic and raw, powerful energy, Melbourne roots-rocker Dallas Frasca will be bringing her one-woman show to Blues on Broadbeach!

With performances that exude the very essence of what roots music should be, Dallas boasts many accolades along with an endorsement from Gun N’ Roses icon Slash on her commendable vocals, riffs and grooves.

Chase The Sun

Celebrating 18 years together in 2024, three-piece band Chase The Sun will be making a long awaited return to the festival.

With a heady mix of loud guitar blues, blazing hard funk and cranking 70s southern rock, this is definitely a reunion you don’t want to miss!

8 Ball Aitken & Friends (All Star Blues Jam)

A festival favourite that needs no introduction, 8 Ball Aitken is back and he’s not coming back alone!

Known for his soulful and energetic performances, 8 Ball will be gathering his blues mates from around the country, to perform an extended set as part of an ‘All Star Blues Jam’! If you’re keen for an ultimate blues celebration, this set is a must-see at Blues on Broadbeach 2024.

Are you ready to be served this musical feast for Blues on Broadbeach 2024? Stay tuned for even more exciting announcements in the coming weeks as we get set to release the festival program and app!

With some of the world’s best blues artists gathering from 16-19 May, don’t forget to secure your festival accommodation now to soak up all that will be on offer!

Shining a light on sun safety: Cancer Council Queensland at Blues on Broadbeach

Posted on February 16, 2024February 16, 2024 by Rebecca

Blues on Broadbeach makes its annual return to the sunny Gold Coast from 16-19 May 2024 and we’re thrilled to welcome Cancer Council Queensland as the Official Charity Partner for Blues on Broadbeach 2024 and 2025!

Did you know that Queensland has the highest rates of melanoma in the world with more than 3,600 people estimated to be diagnosed every year? Being a beachside festival with various outdoor stages spread throughout the Broadbeach precinct, there was no better place to spread the word on the importance of sun safety.

Established in 1961, Cancer Council Queensland is dedicated to improving quality of life for people living with cancer, through research, support, prevention and early detection.

At Blues on Broadbeach 2024, Cancer Council Queensland is set to transform Federation Park into a shady haven away from the Gold Coast sun, where Sid the Seagull will be there to help festivalgoers slop on sunscreen, seek shade and slide into a sun-safe lifestyle.

For those making their way to Broadbeach this May to enjoy performances from artists like Melissa Etheridge, Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, Ana Popovic, Eric Bibb and more, don’t forget to bring along that sunscreen, a hat and water bottle to stay hydrated under the Gold Coast sun!

If you’d like to support all the important work of Cancer Council Queensland, you can donate to their critical research, prevention and support services here. Together, we can make sure no Queenslander navigates cancer alone!

Melissa Etheridge is coming to Blues on Broadbeach 2024!

Posted on January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by Rebecca

Coming back to Australia for the first time in years, we’re thrilled to welcome blues-rock genre bending icon Melissa Etheridge for her only show in Queensland!

Headlining the 23^rd annual Blues on Broadbeach which will be held from 16 – 19 May 2024, Melissa is set to rock the festival stage for the first time as part of her ‘I’m Not Broken’ tour.

“I am thrilled to announce that I’m now joining the Blues on Broadbeach lineup, and sharing the stage with some amazing international, Australian and New Zealand artists. This is my only Queensland show, and I am excited to be playing this iconic blues festival. I’ll be bringing my full live show down under, for the first time in 5 years, and I’m looking forward to seeing all my Australian fans in 2024!”.

As one of blues rock music’s greatest female icons, the two-time Grammy winner has cemented her rock royalty status with her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, as well as multiple platinum albums, an Academy Award and an Honorary Doctor of Music Degree from Berklee.

Whilst her many accolades has garnered worldwide recognition, any Melissa Etheridge fan will tell you that her smoky vocals, confessional lyrics and down to earth personality is what makes her so endearing as a performer.

Recognised many times over for her skill with a six string, Melissa stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album which featured iconic tracks like ‘Bring Me Some Water’ and ‘Like the Way I Do’ that will no doubt make a welcomed appearance on the Blues on Broadbeach stage.

But her talents aren’t just limited on rock stages. From her incredible Broadway show to a best-selling memoir, Melissa has not only continuously demonstrated her musical talent but also the ups and downs of her life as an artist and activist.

We can’t wait to welcome Melissa back to Australia in what’s sure to be an incredible show. And the best part? Melissa Etheridge’s show is non-ticketed, along with a whole heap of incredible artists on the Blues on Broadbeach lineup.

With four days of incredible rhythm and blues talent that includes Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, Ana Popovic, Eric Bibb and many more, come and explore all that Blues on Broadbeach has to offer by securing your festival accommodation today.

More artists will also be announced soon so stay tuned and lock in your stay early!

Rockin’ first lineup announced for Blues on Broadbeach 2024!

Posted on December 5, 2023 by Rebecca

Back for its 23rd year, Blues on Broadbeach returns to the Gold Coast from 16 – 19 May 2024 with an electrifying first lineup just dropped!

Set in the bustling precinct of Broadbeach located right by the iconic beachfront, the first lineup is led by an array of blues-rock female icons who are sure to transform the Gold Coast into a rhythm and blues mecca for four incredible days. Take a look at the full lineup below!

Melissa Etheridge (USA)

One of blues rock music’s greatest female icons and a two-time Grammy award winner, Melissa Etheridge‘s return to Australia has long been overdue. Known for her smoky vocals, confessional lyrics and searing performances, Melissa will be playing her only Queensland show at Blues on Broadbeach in what’s sure to be an unmissable night for blues lovers throughout the country.

Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton (USA)

Dynamic duo Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton form collaboration Death Wish Blues, creating genre-defying blues-rock and taking to the Blues on Broadbeach stage for the first time! Eager to push the boundaries of blues music, Samantha & Jesse’s partnership has already brought together a Grammy-nominated album demonstrating that when you put two incredible artists together, the result is nothing short of thrilling.

Ana Popovic (USA)

We can’t talk about guitar-shreddin’ female powerhouses without mentioning Ana Popovic. Called “one helluva guitar player” by Bruce Springsteen, Ana is known to blend the lines between sizzling blues and crunchy rock ‘n’ roll riffs. With plenty of awards under her belt, Ana’s incredible stage presence makes her a must-see artist in any lineup.

Eric Bibb (USA)

Revered bluesman Eric Bibb who was recently nominated for his third Grammy is a legend in the scene. With an illustrious career spanning five decades and over 40 albums, there’s no question why Eric is respected globally as a fiery singer-songwriter and one of the leading bluesmen of our time.

Rounding out the epic first lineup also includes plenty of homegrown favourites like Lloyd Spiegel, Hat Fitz and Cara, Shaun Kirk, Checkerboard Lounge and heaps more.

Start planning your musical feast in Broadbeach next May by booking your accommodation today! Experience a blues music festival like no other as you are surrounded by the gorgeous beachfront, incredible bars, restaurants and of course, world-class live rock’n blues and rhythms.

From Blues to Boats – Come seas the day!

Posted on May 12, 2023 by Rebecca

May is a busy month on the Gold Coast with two action packed weekends! Starting with Blues on Broadbeach from 18-21 May, the beautiful beachside precinct will welcome more than 65 international and national artists, who will be performing across 16 stages for four days of incredible live rhythm and blues.

But that’s not all! Taking place the weekend after Blues on Broadbeach, the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) offers another action-packed four days from 25-28 May to take you from blues to boats! As the Southern Hemisphere’s largest boating and marine showcase, you’ll need a speedboat just to keep up!

With more national and international product launches than any other event, the show attracts over 45,000 attendees, 300+ exhibitors, and more than 600 boats! Featuring motor yachts, sailboats, pleasure craft and gadgets, it’s a blockbuster event for boat owners and appreciators alike!

Apart from the exhibition, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Ambassador and 7News beach, boating & fishing expert – Paul Burt will also host an action-packed line up of events, including his much-loved cooking shows on the main stage, and the 2023 Live Bream Shoot Out, the deep-water fishing competition where amateur anglers compete for sensational prizes.

There’s no better time to visit the Gold Coast than May, with Blues on Broadbeach and the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show happening one after the other!

And for those looking to upgrade their boat show experience, The Lagoon Lounge VIP marquee at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove offers an all-day grazing menu, alongside a range of premium beverages, bespoke tasting experiences, live music and entertainment so you can relax and refresh!

Secure a ticket today online, with early bird tickets available until 18 May from $27 (kids under 16 enter for free with a paying adult). Clear the decks now and buy your ticket today to hop on board after Blues on Broadbeach!

Nothing but Clean Vibes at Blues on Broadbeach!

Posted on May 4, 2023 by Rebecca

Returning for its 22^nd year and a staple event for the precinct, Blues on Broadbeach is proud to welcome Clean Vibes as the Official Cleaning and Waste Management Services Provider!

We’re blessed to call the beautiful location of Broadbeach as our festival’s home, so it was only fitting that we call in the best in the business to help keep the precinct spotless.

“We want to make sure we continue to give our fans the best possible festival experience and that means ensuring we are following best practice when it comes to sustainable waste management. We also want to make sure our festivals don’t impact negatively on the beautiful locations we deliver them in.” said Major Events Gold Coast CEO Jan McCormick.

Some of the initiatives that will take place between 18-21 May will be specially labelled bins to support waste sorting, as well as the can and bottle return scheme. Festival vendors will also be asked to put in place sustainable practices to reduce overall waste and maximise recycling.

If you’ll be joining us this May to enjoy four days of live rhythm and blues, make sure to keep an eye out for the instructions on the colourful Clean Vibes bins around the festival precinct, and help us make Blues on Broadbeach as sustainable as we can! To find out more about the incredible Clean Vibes crew, click below.

Marcus Scott & The Bo-Keys – What blues means to them

Posted on April 28, 2023April 28, 2023 by Rebecca

Bringing the sound of Memphis all the way to Broadbeach is ‘Memphis Soul Man’ Marcus Scott and the legendary soul outfit The Bo-Keys.

Led by Grammy-nominated producer Scott Bomar, this world-first collaboration will be arriving at Blues on Broadbeach from 18-21 May, bringing with them the true, authentic sound from the home of blues itself.

As true custodians of all things blues and soul, we sat down with a few members of the band to discuss what blues means to them.

Marcus Scott

“It’s a feeling, it’s a lifestyle, it’s a struggle, it’s pain, but it’s the joy that comes out of that. It’s that joy that comes through the voice. It resonates, the people feel it. So blues to me is really a feeling.”

Making his Blues on Broadbeach debut, Marcus Scott was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. As a young boy, Marcus would sit with his ears glued to the radio, mimicking every sound he heard. His musical journey started in 2005 as a hit in local Memphis talent shows and it’s been nothing but up since then.

Scott Bomar

“There’s different forms of blues. There’s happy blues and there’s sad blues. But I think it brings people together. When you’re performing blues, people all over the world can relate to that feeling.”

Another Memphis native, Scott Bomar is the bandleader and bassist for The Bo-Keys. An Emmy Award-winning film composer and a Grammy-nominated music producer, Scott has worked on music with Al Green, Cyndi Lauper and Samuel L Jackson just to name a few. In 1998 he formed The Bo-Keys and gathered historic session musicians from Stax and Hi Records. The band is not only an homage to the spirit of classic Memphis music, but also produces a new chapter for the sound we know and love.

Archie “Hubbie” Turner

“Blues is kind of like a healer, for people not only in America but an international healer all over the world. Whatever is going down, whatever the situation is, go to a good concert and all your downs seems to go away and you go home with a happy feeling. And that’s what it’s all about.”

Keyboard player Archie “Hubbie” Turner has been active in the blues scene since the 1960s. As a member of the Hi Rhythm Section in Memphis, he has featured on over 40 albums with artists like Al Green, Syl Johnson, Ann Peebles and more. After joining The Bo-Keys in 2008, Archie has toured with the band across the world, making countless appearances at major festivals and we can’t wait to welcome him and the rest of the band to Blues on Broadbeach!

The all-star performance from Marcus Scott & The Bo-Keys cannot be missed, but the band is also bringing their wealth of knowledge to Twelve Bar Society – Blues on Broadbeach’s exclusive membership.

For a sneak peak of this world-first collaboration, check out Marcus Scott & The Bo-Keys below and make sure to catch their performance on Saturday 20 May 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM.

Blues on Broadbeach 2023 Festival Program Now Live!

Posted on April 14, 2023April 28, 2023 by Rebecca

The countdown is officially on for Blues on Broadbeach 2023, which means it’s time to start planning your festival schedule with the official festival program and festival app!

Back for the 22nd year at the iconic Broadbeach precinct on the Gold Coast, more than 20 additional acts have also just been added to an already stacked lineup within this year’s program.

Among the fresh artists added to the 2023 bill is the globe-trotting multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter powerhouse Minnie Marks and Brisbane’s three-time Australian Blues Music Award winners and Australian Roots Music Award nominees Blues Arcadia.

Another highlight for this year’s program will be the recently announced world-first exclusive performance from ‘Memphis Soul Man’ Marcus Scott and his first collaboration with legendary band The Bo-Keys. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, previous Tower of Power frontman (2016-2020) Marcus Scott is bringing his explosive and compelling lead vocals to The Bo-Keys all-star cast of legendary soul masters. Lead by Emmy Award-winning and Grammy-nominated composer Scott Bomar, The Bo-Keys feature some of Memphis’ most renowned and respected blues craftsmen.

“I am extremely excited and also honoured to be sharing the stage with this great band The Bo-Keys. It’s so ironic that we all share history together in some shape or form. Whether it be through session work or just simply sharing the same night club gig in the past… the Memphis connection is definitely there! Although this will be our very first time in Australia together, I can definitely feel that it will not be the last!” – said Marcus Scott.

On Saturday 20 May, fans will finally be treated to the long-awaited return of Aussie guitar legend,

Tommy Emmanuel, who will be bringing his electrifying performance to Blues on Broadbeach.

“I am so happy to be finally able to come back to play my beloved Australia. It’s been a tough time in our world lately, and I find that music is needed more than ever. Since I’ve been back touring again, I sense a new feeling of JOY that people have for the live experience, just like the old days when people hear you play for the first time. It’s an awakening, a reminder of the beauty of music – seeing, feeling, and experiencing an event filled with truth, love, sacrifice, dedication and letting go. Relax, let it all go, come and have fun!” – Tommy Emmanuel

With over 65 international and home-grown artists performing across 16 stages, come find your rhythm at Broadbeach this 18-21 May!

To plan out your ultimate four days of live rhythm and blues, check out the offical festival program today or download the official festival app on Google Play or the App Store.

Don Walker – Creativity & Blues

Posted on April 5, 2023April 5, 2023 by Rebecca

Arguably one of Australia’s most accomplished songwriters, Don Walker will be gracing the Blues on Broadbeach stage this May!

Born in Ayr North Queensland, Don began his music career as a member of and main songwriter for Cold Chisel between 1973 to 1983. From “Saturday Night” to “Cheap Wine”, “Khe Sahn” and “Flame Trees”, Don’s song writing credits are endless, and in 2012 he was officially inducted into the Australian Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.

Whether it’s as a solo artist or as part of Cold Chisel, Catfish, and Tex, Don and Charlie, Don’s five-decade long career is certainly one of the greats in Australian music. To discuss his impressive resume, we had a chat with Don about song writing and blues.

How would you describe your ideal creative space? Somewhere peaceful in a quiet studio or maybe a cafe or pub? Or can inspiration strike anywhere for you?

Anywhere can be a creative space. Ian Moss has just recorded a beautiful performance of a song I wrote while inspecting an apartment for rent in Randwick one day in 2013. The shower’s a common flashpoint. Long-form dreaming can happen driving, especially at night. If I drink it’s almost always with other people, so that’s not much good for writing. Coffee is good. So is nicotine.

What song from your catalogue has taken on a new life or direction when performed live?

Harry was a Bad Bugger. I recorded this in 2005 with Charlie Owen and Jim White and Shane Walsh. Charlie played it as a dark acoustic ballad. When I brought it to my band Roy Payne backed the story with an electric baritone, which deepened things and added a lot of power. Quite different.

What does blues music mean to you?

For a lot of people blues music is guitar solos. For me it’s always been singing, from a time in life when hope is extinguished, from those in the African descended culture of the US who lived through the twenties, thirties, forties and fifties of the last century. “My baby bought a ticket, long as my right arm”. Guitars are the accompaniment. My favourite blues guitar player is Hubert Sumlin, and that’s how he plays. My favourite male singer, of blues or anything else, is Howling Wolf.

Don will be releasing his fourth solo album “Lightning in a Clear Blue Sky” on Friday 5 May, before arriving at Broadbeach from 18-21 May. Check out the first single from the album called “You’ve Got To Move” below and start your countdowns for Blues on Broadbeach!

Get to know Melbourne Ska Orchestra!

Posted on March 27, 2023March 27, 2023 by Rebecca

Get ready to witness the Blues on Broadbeach stage be taken over, literally, by the massively impressive Melbourne Ska Orchestra!

20 years young and led by the enigmatic Nicky Bomba, the band is bringing its 20th anniversary celebration show to Broadbeach from 18-21 May. With two ARIA awards under their belt solidifying their reputation as one of Australia’s best live acts, Nicky explains how the band started, their love for ska and blues, and just how much fun it is to tour with upwards of 20 people!

What does blues mean to you?

We play a traditional style of music, which is aligned very much with blues. Blues is a combination of music that’s mixed in with traditional music. That’s exactly what Ska is, it’s music from the states mixed in with traditional Jamaican music. Blues for me is about the feeling, and roots music. When I think blues, I think roots and that’s why I think we’re connected with Blues on Broadbeach.

Is there a song that you’re most excited to perform for the Blues on Broadbeach crowd?

We’ve got a new single out called ‘Something Strong’, it’s about the 20 year lifespan of the band. We’re going to be playing it for the first time on this tour, so when you have a new song out and it’s getting a good reaction, it’s pretty exciting to play that.

Speaking of your ‘20 Years Young’ tour, do you see the Melbourne Ska Orchestra going further and being bigger in the next 20 years?

Absolutely, I really mean it when I say 20 years young. Because we’ve got amazing songwriters in the band, lots of beautiful energy, and the band has gone this long because of the love of the music, of the genre and the style. It’s a real family vibe. We all love being creative, and there’s lots of things we’ve still got to do. A short film, a televised live performance, more albums, more collaborations. It’s kind of unending. The possibilities are endless really. We still feel very energised by it.

Your ARIA winning ‘One Year of Ska’ album, what was the behind the scenes process of that like and releasing a song every week for a full year?

When we decided to do it, we thought ‘oh that’s a fanciful idea’, and the process at the start was quite easy. We had good catering, a nice studio, everyone had a bit of free time to have it all worked out. But then as we were halfway through, we were really starting to feel the pinch in it. We ran out of money to record at the normal studios, so we had to set up another studio in the middle of Melbourne, we had to call in all favours. The nice meals and the cushy environment turned into a studio in the middle of Brunswick with 4am souvlakis and $1 coffees from Seven Eleven.

At the end it was mayhem, it was crazy. But in many ways when we finished it, in the weeks after we thought “I know that was crazy but we all kind of miss it”. It was just a creative, energised bubble and you can get a lot of joy out of that. Creativity and fun go hand in hand. So it was kind of easy in many ways for us to come together and do it, but the logistics of it was a nightmare in the end. Thankfully we all had a good sense of humour and the love for the music, and we just thought this too shall pass… and it did. And we won an ARIA for it so it worked out in the end.

Can you tell us more about the idea behind Melbourne Ska Orchestra, what’s it like touring with this many people?

The band came together because of the love for the music. We were celebrating the 40^th anniversary of ska in 2003. Everybody gets that it’s not a normal band, the success that this band has had is more success than half the band members have ever been associated with. Half the members have never received an award before, half the members have never gone overseas before. All these things have happened in the context of a band this size, so you get this vibe that there is something special here, we’ve actually got a niche that people are connecting with.

There’s an inherent respect for the fact that the band exists in the first place, and because of that, it might seem like it’s a logistical nightmare but when it’s done with love and happiness and a good energy, people are not going to complain. There are a couple that do complain, quietly, but generally everyone is on the same page, and gets it. The hardest thing is trying to work out who’s going to sleep with who because there’s snorers and there’s non-snorers.

How do you find your rhythm?

As far as finding our rhythm, we always like to get into a group and give thanks. But more so just say ‘hey, we know our craft, you know your songs, and the essence here is let’s just have fun’. The fun dictates it, we’re all smiling and there’s lots of love there, and all of us understand the style very well. If something goes left of centre, okay let’s just follow Nicky, he knows what he’s doing and we’ll go along with that energy. So that’s just the essence of the band. Once we get into the red bulls before we get on stage, we’re going to start really fast.

Get a taste of what Melbourne Ska Orchestra will bring to the stage this May below!

Tommy Emmanuel – Blues, Guitar & Life

Posted on March 17, 2023March 17, 2023 by Rebecca

Widely recognised as the greatest acoustic guitar player in the world, two-time Grammy nominated artist Tommy Emmanuel is set to headline the 22^nd annual Blues on Broadbeach festival on the Gold Coast.

Free to attend, Tommy is set to bring his infamous power and dynamism to the Blues on Broadbeach stage after a long-awaited return to Australia. As one of only five Certified Guitar Players (CGP) in the world bestowed by Chet Atkins, and often dubbed as a one-man band, we wanted to take a deep dive behind Tommy’s musical history and learn more about the man behind the strings.

What does blues music mean to you?

Blues music has been part of my life since I was a baby. The first music I heard was Jimmie Rodgers and Hank Williams and that is beautiful blues music. I love all kinds of blues, it speaks to me. It speaks to me about life and gives me a feeling like I’m connected to everybody on Earth. But we are all the same.

What do you think it is about blues music that keeps bringing people back to it?

I don’t think it is necessarily blues music that keeps bringing people back, I think it’s good music. It doesn’t matter what genre if it’s good, it’s good. To me, there are only two kinds of music in the world, good and bad. I prefer to listen to good music. Blues music played well can lift you up out of your chair, it’s just beautiful.

You previously said you have Chet Atkins to thank for your guitar skills and had reached out to him personally through letters, has there been anyone who has reached out to you the same way?

Chet Atkins was and still is a big part of my life. His style of playing definitely influenced me in every way. Not just in how to play a song, but how to find the best key to play it in, what tempo to play at, how to make my arrangements interesting, to make the melody my priority. All of those kinds of skills I learned from listening to him and so many others. I listen and learn from all genres and instruments. I listen to a song and can point out to you “this bit here, I got that idea from a piano player” or “that line there sounds like a saxophone line to me” and “I play with this feeling because I heard a drummer do that”. Things like that. It’s not just guitar skills its music skills in general that I get from other musicians.

As far as my influence, I’ve had thousands of people reach out to me over the years because we now have great communication with the internet. I’m happy that there are people that reach out about technical issues or how do you play that? It could be a simple answer like “I cover 2 strings with one finger” but they can’t figure out how I’m getting that extra note because they can’t see it on a video.

What is the best piece of performance advice you’ve ever received?

There are so many things I’ve learned from so many musicians. Maybe to just be real, choose good songs, and play from deep inside you. Reach deep inside and give the people everything you’ve got. As Sinatra said, leave it all out there.

You were due to perform at Blues on Broadbeach in 2021, but COVID restrictions put a stop to that – how does it feel to be finally playing Blues on Broadbeach and what can fans expect?

I am so looking forward to coming to Blues on Broadbeach. It was my brother Phil, that told me about the festival. I know that he’s played it before, and he was telling me how wonderful it is. So I am looking forward to giving all the fans and the blues fans the best I can possibly do! Can’t wait to see you all!

Apart from his highly anticipated set for Blues on Broadbeach, Tommy is also giving fans a special insight into his artistic journey with an intimate artist masterclass for Twelve Bar Society – Blues on Broadbeach’s exclusive membership. Become a member today and hear first hand from one of the greatest acoustic guitarists of all time, as Tommy chats and plays in this exclusive session.

With the upcoming release of his long-awaited album Accomplice Two on April 28, Tommy is sure to wow audiences at the four-day festival held from 18-21 May. Check out the lead single White Freight Liner Blues featuring Molly Tuttle below and start your countdown to Tommy Emmanuel at Blues on Broadbeach!

GOLD COAST AIRPORT – PROUD TO BE A SUPPORT PARTNER OF BLUES ON BROADBEACH

Posted on March 16, 2023 by Rebecca

Now boarding for Blues on Broadbeach, set to arrive 18-21 May on the beautiful Gold Coast!

We’re thrilled to welcome Gold Coast Airport as a Support Partner for Blues on Broadbeach 2023. With a brand-new terminal open for domestic passengers and international services, you can arrive to the Gold Coast’s very own home of blues music in style.

From tarmac to festival, travelling to Blues on Broadbeach has never been easier. Located just a quick 30-minute drive away or only 40-minutes by bus, waste no time in getting to the heart of the Gold Coast to enjoy the festival! Plus, when you touch down at Gold Coast Airport, keep an eye out for some live entertainment in terminal that will have you in the festive mood as soon as you land.

Plan your travels now and find your rhythm this May with four incredible days of live rhythm and blues music. Blues on Broadbeach is proudly supported by Gold Coast Airport.

Second Lineup Announced for Blues on Broadbeach 2023!

Posted on February 24, 2023 by Rebecca

The countdown is on for Blues on Broadbeach 2023! Returning to the Gold Coast from 18-21 May, 20 more international, national and local artists have just been added for the festival’s 22nd year. With multiple outdoor and indoor stages planned for the festival, Blues on Broadbeach is guaranteed to be all about the music, all the time.

“The Blues on Broadbeach team has put together a line up for 2023 that will appeal to all our festival fans; Blues’ aficionados who have been coming to the festival for more than 20 years and new fans just discovering the genre. Our festival has always been about the music and celebrating excellence in Blues’ craftsmanship, and that is what we have become known for both by the artists who perform on our stages, and by our audiences.” said Major Events Gold Coast Director of Festivals and Events, Mark Duckworth.

Check out some of the impressive artists below from the second lineup who will be joining the likes of Tommy Emmanuel, Don Walker, Emma Donovan & The Putbacks and so many more!

Melbourne Ska Orchestra

Melbourne Ska Orchestra are back bigger, bolder and more bombastic than ever, and this year they’re celebrating their 20th Anniversary... so audiences can expect an extra special treat of a show. Formed in 2003, this juggernaut act is comprised of 18 – 36 members, lead and directed by the energetic and charismatic Nicky Bomba (John Butler Trio, Bustamento, Bomba). With seven albums under their belt, including ARIA award winner ‘52 Fridays – One Year of Ska’, the band are guaranteed to inject their signature energy into their dynamic live show and get crowds feeling the rhythm.

Chris Cheney

With countless sold out shows across Australia, nine albums (including two number one records) and international touring credentials with his iconic band The Living End, Chris Cheney has released his debut solo album; ‘The Storm Before the Calm’. Written and recorded between Nashville, LA and his Melbourne garage, this intimate record displays a more personal side to Cheney’s rock and roll roots. Cheney’s expansive career has earned him a reputation for exceptionally powerful live vocals and prowess on the guitar- none of which will want to be missed at his Blues on Broadbeach debut.

Tommy McLain featuring C.C. Adcock

Hailing from central Louisiana USA, few artists can boast the breadth of experience and skill garnered by Tommy McLain. With a career spanning over five decades, at 82 McLain has shared stages with the likes of Otis Redding, Bobby Vinton, the Bryds and the Yardbirds. With his first solo album in 40 years, Tommy McLain will be joined on the road by his producer and guitarist, C.C. Adcock. The dynamic duo will be performing at Blues on Broadbeach as part of their first Australian tour in 11 years- embodying more than 60 years of classic, authentic swamp pop into every performance.

With the lineup now featuring more than 50 acclaimed blues artists, Blues on Broadbeach is gearing up to be four incredible days set right in the heart of the Gold Coast.

Want to have the festival right on your doorstep? Check out all the accommodation options in Broadbeach and around the Gold Coast so you can be surrounded by the sweet tunes of blues all day, every day!

We’re bringing a taste of Memphis to the Gold Coast for Blues on Broadbeach!

Posted on November 30, 2022March 30, 2023 by Rebecca

Blues on Broadbeach, the Gold Coast’s very own home of blues music is coming together with the city where it all started, Memphis!

Coming on as an Official Support Partner for the festival, this partnership will help bring the beloved and unique Memphis sound to the other side of the world.

“Blues on Broadbeach has built a strong relationship with the team at Memphis Tourism for many years, curating some amazing festival performances from some of Memphis’ best,” said Festival Director Mark Duckworth.

“To see our partnership continue to grow for our 2023 event, and beyond, is a testament to the genre of blues music, and its ongoing journey around the world. We can’t wait to welcome many more legends from the home of blues music to our Gold Coast stages.”

Thanks to Memphis Tourism, for the first time ever ‘Memphis Soul Man’ Marcus Scott has joined the lineup for Blues on Broadbeach 2023. Born in the blues capital of the world, Memphis native Marcus Scott will be flying down under with The Bo-Keys for a world-first collaboration.

Beyond that, Marcus Scott & The Bo-Keys is also set to host a Masterclass as part of the exclusive Twelve Bar Society membership. Members will experience an intimate chat with Marcus and members of the band, take a deep dive into the blues genre and explore the wealth of insight from their combined careers.

Don’t miss your chance to see Marcus Scott & the Bo-Keys, Tommy Emmanuel, Don Walker, Emma Donovan & The Putbacks plus more in Broadbeach from 18 – 21 May 2023.

The ultimate blues music experience on the Gold Coast!

Posted on November 29, 2022November 29, 2022 by Rebecca

Returning for its second year, the exclusive Blues on Broadbeach membership, Twelve Bar Society, is back!

Twelve Bar Society brings together avid blues music lovers from far and wide, with exclusive members only inclusions that will take your Blues on Broadbeach experience to new heights.

Delivered across all four days of the festival held on the Gold Coast, the exclusive members offerings include:

A VIP bar with up-close main stage viewing garden in Kurrawa Park
A members only ‘Secret Show’ on Thursday 18th May
Saturday Masterclass – Regarded as one of the greatest acoustic guitarists of all time, Australian guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel chats and plays in this exclusive session.
Sunday Masterclass – Memphis blues and soul legend, singer/songwriter Don Bryant and his friends talk about the importance of Memphis – the home of blues, soul & rock ‘n’ roll, and the importance of its music today.
Limited-edition merchandise and goodie bag
A certified membership pass to enjoy all Twelve Bar Society events and locations
15% discount on all Blues on Broadbeach merchandise

Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a returning Blues on Broadbeach fan, Twelve Bar Society is the perfect occasion to take a deep dive into the world of blues music. Join with your mates or meet some new ones who share your love for blues!

Plus, with the first lineup already announced, the countdown is officially on until 18-21 May 2023. Available for purchase now on Oztix, 2023 memberships are on sale for $149 plus booking fee (total $154.80).

With only a limited number of memberships each year, don’t miss your chance to join!

First lineup announced for Blues on Broadbeach 2023!

Posted on November 24, 2022February 23, 2023 by Rebecca

Returning for its 22^nd year, Blues on Broadbeach is back on the Gold Coast from 18-21 May 2023, and the first lineup has just dropped!

Led by acoustic guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel, Don Walker, Emma Donovan & The Putbacks plus many more, the festival is set to be an unforgettable four days filled with rhythm and blues music.

An annual pilgrimage for many, the festival encompasses four blocks of the Broadbeach precinct, with acts staged across the many vibrant streets, parks and venues of this iconic location. Plus, with plenty of accommodation options in and around Broadbeach, fans can enjoy having live music right at their doorstep. While there’s still a few months till the festival, it’s never too late to start the countdown!

To help you get in the festival mood now, get to know more about some of the talented artists from the 2023 lineup!

2023 Artist Applications are open!

Posted on September 13, 2022November 11, 2022 by Rebecca

Do you want to perform at one of Australia’s largest free music festivals?

With a history now spanning more than two decades, Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival is an annual celebration of blues music that spans across 4 full days and nights on the beautiful Gold Coast!

Set at the bustling Broadbeach precinct, we love nothing more than bringing the best of the best blues artists from around the country and the world. This year’s festival featured artists like James Morrison Motown Experience, Robben Ford, Karise Eden, Osaka Monaurail and so many more. Could you be joining us too in 2023?

Returning next year for its 22^nd year from 18 – 21 May, applications are open now for artists looking to join our 2023 lineup. If you love blues as much as we do, we look forward to hearing and learning more about you!

Applications will remain open until the festival and the process is completely free of charge. So if you’re looking for a sign to take a leap, this is it.

Click the button below to fill out the application! Our team will be in touch regarding the status of your application via email, so make sure to keep a watchful eye. Till then, make sure to follow us on socials for updates on Blues on Broadbeach 2023!

Blues on Broadbeach 2022 Second Lineup Announcement

Posted on March 4, 2022March 24, 2022 by Rebecca

In November 2021 Blues on Broadbeach shared a stacked lineup to our blues lovers and we were only just getting started!

Adding to the Blues on Broadbeach lineup on 19-22 May, we are proud to announce the second tranche of extraordinary Blues artists added to an already stellar bill. Headliners James Morrison Motown Experience, Robben Ford (USA) and R.L. Boyce (USA) are being joined by Karise Eden, Osaka Monaurail (Japan), Blue Empress All-Stars, Matty T Wall and many more.

Festival Director, Mark Duckworth said this year’s Blues on Broadbeach is all about returning to its roots:

“We want to continue to bring our festival fans a collection of artists which celebrate all the different music styles in the Blues genre as well as a few surprises”.
“It is so important to us that we bring out not just the big names, but those artists that are true to the event and represent the very best of what Blues music has to offer. With our international borders finally open again, we’re excited to welcome to our stages some truly incredible international artists and some unique performances which you won’t see anywhere else and won’t want to miss.”

Blues on Broadbeach is fortunate enough to welcome a wide variety of talent from all over the world.

The sensational Osaka Monaurail is Japan’s premiere funk orchestra, ready to make waves on Australia’s shores at Blues on Broadbeach. With their sharp suits, synchronised routines, and powerful horn section, Osaka Monaurail will have feet movin’ and hips shakin’ from the moment they hit the stage.

We know Karise Eden’s voice can move a nation. We know that the celebrated Blues songbird’s performances are powerful, engrossing, and bold. So, we know that she is going to fit right into the Blues on Broadbeach bill, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the renowned Gold Coast stage in May.

“I’m so excited to be able to perform in the flesh at Blues on Broadbeach, after the digital only performance for Bandwidth in 2020,” said Karise.
“Our industry, artists, venues, crew, and people across all areas of this sector have been so greatly affected by the pandemic so, to be able to return to play live in 2022 is a such lift to the spirits.
“For my performance, I will be backed by a full live band for the first time in what feels like forever! I am also thrilled to be launching my forthcoming album ‘Into the Black’ at the festival, which Blues on Broadbeach attendees will get a full exclusive live preview of. It’s going to be a great time – I can’t wait to see everyone there!”

In an exciting Blues on Broadbeach first, Blue Empress All-Stars are an ensemble of Australia’s finest Blues and Roots artists, is ready to grace the stages of Blues on Broadbeach 2022 in all their diversely talented glory. The seven Blues sisters – Fiona Boyes, Kerri Simpson, Cara Robinson, Leesa Gentz, Julz Parker, Alison Penney, and Sweet Felicia – will be joined by Hammond B3 and sax maestro, Tim Neal, and drummer/percussionist Mark Grunden. With more than 120 national and international awards between them for their individual performances and recordings, they are a force to be reckoned with!

Check out the full lineup here!

Blues on Broadbeach is supported by the Queensland Government via Tourism and Events Queensland and is a feature on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar.

For further information on the Festival including updates and programming, visit the Blues on Broadbeach website.

Blues on Broadbeach 2022 First Lineup is Here!

Posted on December 1, 2021December 1, 2021 by Rebecca

Blues on Broadbeach has just announced the first lineup for their 2022 Music Festival and it is packed with a variety of artists and offers something to every Blues music lover!

We’re going back to our roots and have put together a collection of artists that cover a wide range of Blues music styles. Headlining the festival are the likes of James Morrison with this Motown Experience performance, US guitar legend Robben Ford, and fellow American icon R.L. Boyce who is performing alongside the Australian Blues star Dom Turner. With this range of musicians on the first lineup, it gives fans just a taste of what’s in store for Blues on Broadbeach 2022.

Festival Director, Mark Duckworth is thrilled that Blues on Broadbeach is returning in 2022, this time with a host of international acts as the persistent impact of the pandemic begins to dissipate.

“The thing that makes Blues on Broadbeach such a special Festival is the importance we place on presenting authentic artists and musicians each year.
The month of May wouldn’t feel the same on the Gold Coast without music taking over the streets of Broadbeach and this year’s line-up of acclaimed performers will continue the pilgrimage of Blues fans from around the country and beyond…
Bring on Blues on Broadbeach 2022!”

The James Morrison Motown Experience is a show like no other! Fans are set to be blown away by the unforgettable, feel-good Motown Party led by the multi-award-winning James Morrison. Blues lovers can get their dancing shoes on for a fusion of soulful vocals, rhythmic tunes, and heavenly horns. Blues on Broadbeach is a family-friendly festival, so it is only right for James’ to include his two sons amongst the four-piece horn section and four soulful vocalists.

“To be able to play live music again at festivals like Blues on Broadbeach is the most rewarding part of being a musician – connecting with an audience, getting people up out of their seats, and seeing the joy that music brings, there is no greater feeling. I have toured the world and played in some of the greatest concert halls but there is something special about Blues on Broadbeach,” James Morrison declared.

We also have the likes of Robben Ford, a five-time Grammy nominee, USA-born and world-renowned American jazz, blues, funk, and rock player who is set to bring his unparalleled electric guitar playing to the streets of Broadbeach.

Blues on Broadbeach will be Robben’s only Queensland live show and we are lucky enough to see him performing over multiple nights. With an unparalleled list of collaborations including Miles Davis, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, and Tommy Emmanuel, Robben Ford has earned his place amongst the highest pedigree of musicians and is a must-see act at Blues on Broadbeach 2022.

R.L Boyce and Dom Turner are both critically acclaimed authentic Blues artists in their own right. Mississippi-born R.L. Boyce is the reigning master of Mississippi Hill country blues, a raw and powerful trance-like hypnotic blues music style that has ancient roots and has inspired a myriad of blues, rock, punk, grunge, and hip-hop artists. His improvisational style is like no other and alongside Dom Turner’s iconic blues sound the duo brings. A founding member of legendary award-winning Australian blues group, Backsliders, the guitarist, and vocalist is set to form a formidable and terrific, must-see act with R.L. Boyce.