Every Thursday, Festival Radio Show takes listeners on an unforgettable journey through the world of live music, featuring in-depth coverage of the biggest and most beloved festivals from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or someone new to the scene, this show offers a rich blend of interviews, live recordings, and curated sets, giving fans a front-row experience. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the community and culture surrounding live music events.
Each week, the radio show highlights a different festival, exploring its history, its cultural impact, and its unforgettable moments. This week’s feature is Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, one of the most iconic festivals in the world.
Festival of the Week: Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
Bonnaroo, held annually in Manchester, Tennessee, is a celebration of music, arts, and community that attracts thousands of people from all corners of the globe. Known for its diverse lineup, Bonnaroo brings together artists from a variety of genres including rock, electronic, hip hop, jazz, blues, and more.
Since its inception in 2002, it has become a Mecca for music lovers, drawing fans to its sprawling campsite and stages. Over the years, some of the greatest names in music have graced the Bonnaroo stage, creating legendary performances that live on in the hearts of fans. Artists like Radiohead, Phish, The Avett Brothers, My Morning Jacket, and many others have left their mark on this world-renowned festival.
But it’s not just about the music – Bonnaroo is known for its inclusive, laid-back atmosphere, where fans connect with each other through shared experiences, art installations, food, and workshops. Whether you’re in the middle of a jam-packed performance or relaxing at a quiet art exhibit, Bonnaroo offers something for everyone.
Live Releases from the Festival
One of the most exciting things about festivals like Bonnaroo is the incredible live performances, and Festival Radio Show brings those experiences directly to listeners. The show features live releases from past Bonnaroo performances, showcasing iconic sets by some of the most legendary acts to have ever performed there.
Some of the standout performances include:
- The Allman Brothers Band – A masterclass in Southern rock, The Allman Brothers’ sets at Bonnaroo were the stuff of legend, blending improvisation with emotional intensity.
- Dr. John – The late, great Dr. John brought his distinctive New Orleans sound to Bonnaroo, leaving an indelible mark on fans with his powerful performances.
- My Morning Jacket – Known for their deep, atmospheric rock sound, My Morning Jacket has delivered some of the festival’s most magical sets, with intricate layers and soaring crescendos.
- King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard – This Australian psych-rock group has set Bonnaroo ablaze with their multi-faceted live shows that span across genres, from hard rock to experimental.
- Phish – Phish’s marathon sets have made them a festival favorite, and their Bonnaroo performances are legendary for their mind-bending jams and intense fan interaction.
- Moe. – A jam band institution, Moe. has delivered countless epic performances at Bonnaroo, providing fans with intricate and extended jams that keep the crowd on their feet.
- Radiohead – As one of the most influential bands of the 21st century, Radiohead’s performances at Bonnaroo have been transformative, often regarded as some of the best live shows ever.
- Cage The Elephant – Their explosive live shows have made Cage the Elephant a favorite at Bonnaroo, with high-energy performances that leave fans exhilarated.
- The War on Drugs – This indie rock band has captured the hearts of fans with their atmospheric, emotionally charged performances.
- Burning Spear – A reggae legend, Burning Spear has brought his soul-stirring sound to Bonnaroo, with performances that highlight his deep roots in reggae history.
- Keller Williams – A one-man band known for his loop-based performances, Keller Williams’ Bonnaroo sets have delighted fans with their creativity and energy.
- String Cheese Incident – A mainstay at Bonnaroo, String Cheese Incident has entertained festival-goers with their eclectic mix of bluegrass, jam, and electronic music.
- Praxis – A powerful and experimental act, Praxis delivers an avant-garde mix of jazz, funk, and rock, always pushing the boundaries of live performance.
- The Black Keys – With their raw, bluesy rock sound, The Black Keys’ live shows have left fans in awe, especially when seen live at Bonnaroo.
- The Avett Brothers – This folk rock band brings heartfelt, energetic performances that have resonated with crowds of all sizes, making their Bonnaroo appearances unforgettable.
And this list only scratches the surface! The live releases from these artists capture the very essence of what makes Bonnaroo so special – the unbridled energy, the passion for music, and the sense of community that radiates from every corner of the festival grounds.
Tune in to Festival Radio every Thursday on JamFestfor the best festival coverage, and don’t miss the chance to revisit these electrifying live performances. If you haven’t already experienced Bonnaroo, let the radio show take you there through the power of music.