The stage is prepared, the rhythms are in order, and the excitement is palpable as the first-ever Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival 2024 reveals its soon to be legendary lineup. From May 31 to June 2, 2024, Thornborough Farm, nestled on the outskirts of Kings Norton and Wythall in Birmingham, will pulsate with the infectious rhythms of ska and reggae, featuring an impressive roster of iconic artists.
Prepare for a musical spectacle featuring the legendary Dandy Livingstone, The Pioneers, Stranger Cole, Bad Manners, Neville Staple, Symarip, The Ethiopians, Errol Dunkley, Susan Cadogan, Rhoda Dakar (The Bodysnatchers), Freddy Notes, Roddy Radiation, The Equators, Basil Gabbidon (Steel Pulse), Kioko, Aka The Syndicate, Lobster, Natural Right, Gold Steppers, Xodus, The Downsetters, The Piragons, and The Reggulites. This impressive lineup promises to make the inaugural Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival an unforgettable experience.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Thornborough Farm, the festival will unfold across three days in the great outdoors. Attendees will be treated to a myriad of live music and DJ performances across three stages, showcasing the rich tapestry of ska and reggae. From the classic sounds of Dandy Livingstone and The Pioneers to the energetic vibes of Bad Manners and Neville Staple, the festival promises an immersive journey through the heart and soul of ska and reggae.
Beyond the live music, festival-goers can immerse themselves in a world of culinary delights with a tempting array of street food. Explore market traders and vintage stalls, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the festival atmosphere. Choose between camping facilities for a complete festival experience or opt for easy access for non-campers.
The lineup is a harmonious blend of local talent and international legends. The Pioneers, celebrated for hits like ‘Long Shot’ and ‘Let Your Yeah Be Yeah,’ will take center stage alongside Midlands
Ska legend Rhoda Dakar (The Bodysnatchers). Basil Gabbidon (Steel Pulse), Kioko, Lobster, and The Reggulites will represent the thriving Midlands ska and reggae scene, adding a local flavor to the global celebration.
Steven Davis, Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival (Dance Craze / Droitwich Ska, Reggae & Mod Festival), said: “Birmingham and the Midlands have produced some of the biggest and most influential ska and reggae artists outside of Jamaica, and so it seems right for a festival of this kind to be held here. I’ve wanted to put on a festival like this for years and finally, the time seemed right and I have been able to get some fantastic acts from the local area, across the UK and Jamaica.”
Mazzy Snape, Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival (Bread Birmingham / The Night Owl), added: “The response to the festival has been overwhelmingly positive. We’ve only recently set up social media and announced the line-up and people are loving it! Our initial sales have been phenomenal and we’re so happy that we seem to have hit on something that people will enjoy! Tickets are now available from Skiddle here: https://bit.ly/bhamintlskareggae