One of Australia’s largest music festivals, Blues on Broadbeach, is set to return for its 22nd year from 18 – 21 May 2023 and will showcase some legendary names in the Australian and international blues world.
An annual pilgrimage for many, Blues on Broadbeach attracts fans from near and far to the Gold Coast to feel the rhythm in what’s set to be an unforgettable four-day festival.
First lineup includes Tommy Emmanuel, Don Walker, Emma Donovan & The Putbacks, Don Bryant & The Bo-Keys (US), The Kevin Borich Express, and The Turner Brown Band (US/AUS).
With borders open again, the 2022 festival earlier this year was met with an overwhelming turnout with fans eager to experience the electric atmosphere that Blues on Broadbeach is renowned for. The 2023 festival promises to be even bigger, encompassing four blocks in the Broadbeach precinct, interspersed throughout the many vibrant streets, parks and venues of Broadbeach.
“We look forward to adding even more friends to the festival family in 2023. Blues On Broadbeach has become the Gold Coast’s home of Blues for over two decades and we are all excited to announce these amazing acts to the 2023 lineup,”
– said Major Events Gold Coast Director of Festival and Events Director, Mark Duckworth.
“We are gearing up for a rhythm, blues, and roots festival like no other in May, with some legendary international acts, joining plenty of homegrown talent on our Blues on Broadbeach stages. The 2023 lineup includes some exceptional singer/songwriters like Don Bryant hailing from the home of Blues, Memphis Tennessee, and much-loved Aussie icon Don Walker, plus arguably one of the world’s best guitarists, Tommy Emmanuel.”
Here’s more music for the ears of blues lovers: The Twelve Bar Society is back in 2023! This exclusive club offers members the opportunity to elevate their Blues on Broadbeach experience. Sold out in 2022, Twelve Bar Society offers a range of exclusive experiences including Masterclasses with artists, a VIP Bar and viewing area, merchandise and more. The 2023 memberships will go on sale on Tuesday 29 November 2022. Inaugural members will have presale access 24 hours prior, on Monday 28 November.
Two-time Grammy-nominated headliner Tommy Emmanuel brings the power and dynamism of a full band to his solo acoustic playing. His incredible charisma, stunning speed, dexterity and unerring command of melody has captivated fans in sold-out shows across the globe. Tommy’s unique contribution to music has earned him the prestigious honour of the Order of Australia, and the title of #1 Acoustic Guitarist in the World on Music Radar, as voted by his fellow musicians. “Imagine Chet Atkins with the testosterone of Eddie Van Halen …” – said Steve Vai.
Tommy returns to Australia in May 2023 for the first time in four years and a truly special opportunity awaits Blues on Broadbeach fans.
Joining Tommy on the bill is yet another icon of Australian music, Don Walker. Widely acknowledged as one of the nation’s most important songwriters, his anthemic storytelling has earned him a place in the Australian Songwriter’s Hall of Fame and the hearts of music lovers across the globe. “I am delighted to be a part of the lineup in 2023 in what will be its 22nd year” says Cold Chisel pianist, Don Walker.
Emma Donovan & The Putbacks return next year by popular demand, having performed at this year’s festival and impressing the crowds. Emma’s soaring vocals and moving lyrics have seen her become one of the most celebrated Indigenous artists in Australia today, with her recent album Crossover earning her a 2022 ARIA Award nomination for Best Blues & Roots Album.
“The Putbacks and I can’t wait to return to Blues on Broadbeach” – Emma Donovan
CLICK TO WATCH THE LINEUP VIDEO
Lecia Louise, local Queensland vocalist and guitar virtuoso is raring to perform with her incredible band, which blew audiences away at Blues on Broadbeach 2021.
“I’m super excited to be returning to the Blues on Broadbeach stage in 2023, and I’m looking forward to presenting something new and exciting. Blues on Broadbeach is a great festival in a beautiful location that has something for everyone. See you there!” – Lecia Louise
A true legend of Australian rock ‘n’ roll, Kevin Borich will also be gracing the stage in May. As the frontman of The Kevin Borich Express, he’s been thrilling audiences with his incendiary guitar playing and soulful vocals for over four decades. Still at the top of his game, his new album Legacy is currently topping Australian Blues & Roots charts.
The Turner Brown Band is one of the most exciting blues outfits of recent times. This joint Australia/USA musical collaboration between Australian slide guitarist, music producer Dom Turner and Ohio-based vocal sensation Nikki D Brown promises to be a dynamic live show, not to be missed!
Hailing from the home of Blues Memphis, rhythm and blues legend Don Bryant is the real deal when it comes to blues. A supremely talented vocalist, songwriter and producer whose career in music spans over 50 years. Bryant got his start as a staff writer for Hi Records in the late 60s where he penned hits for artists such as Ann Peebles, Otis Clay and Al Green. His own hit songs like ‘Is It Over’ and ‘A Nickel and a Nail’ have been enshrined in the canon of American soul music. He will be joining forces with fellow Tennessean band, The Bo-Keys, to perform an eclectic blend of blues, gospel and soulful jazz.
Rounding out the stellar first lineup are some familiar names and festival faves such as Jazzparty, The Mason Rack Band, Frank Sultana and newcomer Steph Strings, plus plenty more.
Don’t miss a beat, mark the dates in your diary and start planning so you can feel the rhythm at Blues on Broadbeach on the Gold Coast this May!
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.
