Ottawa Bluesfest
Ottawa Bluesfest 2009:
July 9-19, 2009 - Ottawa, ON
Latest Updates: 6/24 - Removed Crystal Castles
Official Lineup (of note):
The Alan Parsons Live Project, Alberta Cross, Ani DiFranco, Arrested Development, Ben Harper & Relentless7, The Black Keys, Black Mountain, Blue Rodeo, Born Ruffians, Brian Setzer Orchestra, Buckwheat Zydeco, Busta Rhymes, Cake, Curumin, Dave Mason, David Maxwell, The Dead Weather, Deer Tick, DeVotchKa, Die Mannequin, The Dodos, Drive-By Truckers, The Duhks, Elliot Brood, Estelle, Femi Kuti & The Positive Force, Flosstradamus, George Clinton & the P-Funk All-Stars, Girl Talk, The Grates, Great Lake Swimmers, Gym Class Heroes, Handsome Furs, Harlem Gospel Choir, Holy Fuck, Ice Cube, Iron & Wine, Jackson Browne, Jeff Beck, Joe Cocker, Joe Pug, John Vanderslice, K’Naan, The King Khan and BBQ Show, KISS, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Live, Los Lonely Boys, Ludacris, Lynyrd Skynyrd, M83, Matisyahu, Mick Taylor, The National, Neko Case, The New Mastersounds, Okkervil River, Our Lady Peace, Paolo Nutini, Papa Mali, The Proclaimers, Punch Brothers, DJ Rekha, RJD2, Ryan Shaw, Sam Roberts Band, Serena Ryder, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Silverstein, Spencer Davis, Steve Earle, The Stills, Stone Temple Pilots, Styx, Sugar Blue, Thunderheist, Toots & the Maytals, United Steelworkers of Montreal, Xavier Rudd, The Yardbirds, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Zombies
Important Links:
Tickets:
- via Official Website
Luke, the Proclaimers aren’t part of the main festival lineup at Lebreton Flats, but rather part of the new Bluesfest Byward lineup of free shows in the market. They play on July 10th according to the band’s website.
The Bluesfest Byward lineup is supposed to be announced today (see link below in previous post).
I don’t see any evidence that The Proclaimers are in the lineup
Crystal Castles have been dropped!
Busta Rhymes added today.
On top of that, Bluesfest has officialy announced “Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest Byward”. From July 9th to 13th throughout the Byward Market, on an outdoor open-air stage as well as in many clubs, free shows will be taking place. Full lineup to be announced next week. So far, George Clinton and the P-Funk Allstars, The Proclaimers, Arrested Development, Serena Ryder, and many others have been announced.
Go to the offical Bluesfest website at http://www.ottawabluesfest.ca and go to NEWS under EVENT INFO for the press release which lists the current performers, as well as clubs taking part.
Go to http://www.bluesfestbyward.com/ to sign up for updates…. if you’re interested of course.
Black Keys added, too, July 8.
There were some other adds as well:
Metric, Silverstein, Gym Class Heroes
Lynard Skynard has been listed as the headliner for Saturday night (July 18th)! Not bad… I’ll be there for sure.
Regarding the free shows … Bluesfest has a long tradition of treating freeloaders nicely and its paying customers rather poorly. People have been allowed to stand outside the grounds without paying and get a good view and sound for a long time.
So now, you can now hear some pretty good bands without paying anything at the Market location. Meanwhile, people who have paid for a ticket still have a lineup in which several headliners aren’t filled in. And it’s too far to go between the sites. I’m going to be mighty upset if the free bands are more attractive than the ones they’ve scheduled at the festival site on a given night (and there are some very weak nights so far!)
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Entertainment/Update+Bluesfest+adds+free+shows+Market/1704676/story.html
Interesting idea, though I find it strange they’d do this when they haven’t even completed the lineup for the ticketed part of the festival.
I’m wondering the same thing about the final Saturday night headliner. A few of the headline slots on the side stages are also left blank. And no announced opener for STP yet (surely there must be at least one opening act). There’s typically a few open slots floating around in mid June, but it seems there are more significant omissions this year.
Has anyone heard of how tickets are moving? I’m curious, because although the overall line-up is pretty deep, there are fewer must see bands this year.
Anyone hear about who is going to be the headliner for the last Saturday?
I recall hearing that we were supposed to know about this like a month ago.
During all the debate between Keither and lawnchairsittersunite over lawnchairs and which bands are worth watching, it appears K.D. Lang quietly removed herself from the roster. I don’t know if it was because of all the rhetoric being bandied about, that perhaps she felt nervous that her prescence may incite violence or because she just had some personal reason. Anyone know the story behind that? I don’t recall bluesfest making any anouncement one way or the other, but initially she was definitely listed as one of the performers. Just curious.
Im confused wasn’t Steve Earle already announced?
Either way Awesome!
Steve Earle is coming.
Sweet! They brought Claypool back (he was taken off for a few days).
Claypool still on bluesfest site and his myspace says he IS playing Bluesfest
Les Claypool has been removed from the Bluesfest website. His Myspace lists two shows in two venues in two countries for July 17th. His official website doesn’t list Bluesfest.
That sucks.
yeah… you’re right, it is better than disco night. I guess we just lucked out last year with Tony D saving the night. Man, that was a damn good show.
On the other stages, Buckwheat Zydeco’s usually fun. Anyone know what Steel Summit is, and who played in it before?
Yeah Yeah Yeah’s are emo? I guess I’ve been listening to a different band.
I agree Yeah Yeah Yeah’s are an odd choice to close the fest but still should be a damn good show. Certainly better than Donna Summer or THe Village People, I’m just glad Disco Night is gone
Man, they just killed the final night. I thought there was going to be a REAL headliner, not some semi-mainsteam alternative fad band. They turned the final night into high school kid central. I WAS gonna see The Dead Weather, but now it’s not even worth it. White Stipes, Raconteurs, Dead Weather….. all the same shit anyway. Dammit, at least that ticket it’ll be easy to sell for me, I guess alot of people like the NO, NO, NO’s. Talk about emo-punk-whining-noise shit. How can anybody listen to this crap?
Yeah Yeah Yeah’s have been confirmed as headliners on the final night
anyone hear any rumours lately about possible headliners for the last two nights?
I agree with bungopony. Really, what’s the problem with the fact that Bluesfest has a more diverse musical selection, as opposed to a Blues only festival. The name is irrelevant, and I’m sure there would be no quams if the festival was initially named ‘Rockfest’.
Great point Pony.
The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is actually the template for the Ottawa Bluesfest.
Virginfest just announced for Montreal. $133 for 2 days incl. tax. Bluesfest looking like a bargain.
BTW, who gives a crap about Bluesfest’s name? The music’s awesome. Check out who plays the New Orleans Jazz Festival sometime.
Have the organisers ever considered changing the festival name to reflect the lineup better?
Yeah Yeah Yeahs and THE DEAD WEATHER … wow.
This definitely makes up for Styxx and Blue Rodeo
Keither — you’re pretty good yourself … a yes, I would buy you a beer no problem — I might even sing STP and KISS songs with you …
It was fun, man ….
I really doubt you’d want to hang out with an inmmature homophobe
Keither– I hope I have the pleasure of meeting you at bluesfest. I’ll buy you a beer ….we’ll smoke a fat one and then laugh at all the ridiculous stuff we wrote.
I was just playing along, man ….nothing personal …no hard feelings. I’m sure you are an engineer and a very good one at that. If not, and you’re just some bag-face … it was still fun.
What’s with all the kd lang bashing? If she’s good enough for Roy Orbison she’s definately good enough for the rest of us!
Has anyone noticed the trend of having comediens perform at music fests?
I strongly recommend that Bluesfest invite Keither and LawnChairSittersUnite. These guys are really entertaining and they are giving up their best material for free!!!!
Wow you’re good. You win.
Keither –If your little ‘fishing for idiots’ expedition meant labelling yourself an immature homophobe, then dude you really are an idiot. Why are you so hung up on KD Lang? As I said earlier, she’s not my cup of tea, yet you keep clinging to that as some sort of insult, proving your limited acumen and grade 3 level humour.
I created the name lawnchairsittersunite to spur you on … man, you really are daft. As I said before Keither, the public education system let you down big time. Btw … your little ‘ I baited you first’ bit doesn’t really work — we both know your limitations Keither….. as do your parents and the guidance councillor at whatever back-water school you went to. An engineer? Please Keither …..that’s embarrassing You’re making it worse on yourself and painful for the rest of us to observe.
Isn’t Ice Cube known more for his crappy movies these days? (as opposed to his crappy music)
Yeah Ice Cube!
lawnchairsittersunite, I DID in fact start this lawnchair thing. Like I said in my last message, fishing for idiots, and wow did I ever catch a lunker! Hey, how’s your Lawnchair Sitters Union going? Still the only member? Sorry you’re so embarrassed about your infatuation with K.D Lang, I would be too. Funny… you don’t bring a lawnchair? You seemed pretty anxious to kick my ass if I kicked your chair. Well, you can text me, but I won’t be able to text ya back cause I ain’t got no cellphone. I guess I really am a redneck. Not to mention I said “Ain’t got no”. Well, I’m done fishing, out of bait. Have fun at Bluesfest everybody! Hope you don’t run into a$$holes like lawnchairsittersunite
Also Black Mountain on the 17th. Kewl.
Additions on the Bluesfest website:
Ice Cube on July 14 (before Our Lady Peace)
Yeah Yeah Yeahs headlining on the 19th
The Dead Weather (Jack White’s new project) also on the 19th
My bet is that the Monday night with STP…….that stage will be the only one active.
Probably be an opening act.
I hope it’s Iggy Pop!
Anybody heard anything on additions?
The last two nights still don’t have headliners and other nights (like STP on July 13) still have a bunch of open spots
Keither — look man, you started this whole thing with your ‘ can’t wait to kick lawn chairs’ blast. I immediately saw an opportunity to have fun with you and did. When you resorted to taking shots like you and your ‘ friends’ will be better served at KD Lang, well, an engineer or not, you sounded like a redneck. You’re the guy who proudly boasted of getting absolutely sideways and screming the lyrics to the songs all night –again, easy fodder. The funny thing is I don’t even bring a lawnchair. Enjoy the show Keither — maybe I’ll text you on the big screen ….
You’re right, I’m wrong. They definitely have banned chairs from some nights, maybe just rockier events like the Hip or ZZ Top.
they didnt ban chairs during Van Mo or Dylan
I doubt they’ll ban lawn chairs altogether; would’ve done it years ago. They have before banned them on their busiest nights, like Van Morrison or Bob Dylan.
I think a certain balance on the debate is necessary. I too get frustrated to see a wall of inpenetrable chairs blocking the stage front; it’s a crime for someone as exciting as Robert Randolph. But I also understand that for geezers like me hauling around kids all day, or with bad backs or whatnot, that sitting can be necessary over the week and a half. Maybe blankets is best, unless it rains. Certainly agree that by the time the headliner comes on, it’s time to fold and stand.
BTW, am I the only one who finds 10 days of Bluesfest like some kind of endurance test? An awesome one, mind you, but I’m damn near exhausted by the final weekend.
I’m glad the chairs are starting to be eliminated.
First of all, 90% of people use them to save spots, secondly, they cause a lot of problems with people trying to move around and get closer, and last of all, they’re dangerous because they could be used as objects to throw etc. And judging by the threats here by internet-toughs … I can only imagine.
They should have lawn-chair only areas in front of the giant screens.
Anyone hear rumors about who is playing on the last weekend? I have this feeling maybe Kid Rock and/or Lynyrd Skynyrd. It would fit with the theme of weird headliners.
Wow, good rant, chairsittersunite. Fishing for idiots on the internet really works. Listen to you, you’re all worked up over liking k.d. lang. Oh by the way, I’m an engineer, so the system didn’t fail me. It obviously failed YOU because you’ve resulted to insults and name calling over a lawnchair debate. Well, enjoy your lawnchair, enjoy CARRYING your lawnchair, and enjoy listening to my hill-billy moaning. Enjoy k.d. Lang while you’re at it.
p.s. The ban on lawnchairs at KISS is only the beginning of banning chairs at ALL main stages. Watch and see!!
Bluesfest has already announced a ban on lawn chairs for Kiss.
Alot of the big festivals have tiered pricing. They sell a certain amount of tickets at a certain price, then bump it a bit, sell a certain amount at that price, bump again.
Not sure why, but I know Lollapalooza and others do this.
It is because Bluesfest always has a early bird price then after a few days their bump the price of the ticket. sort of like what their do for the passes.
Green Day has been confirmed for Scotiabank Place, not Bluesfest. It’s on their website.
Secondly, why has the price for the KISS been bumped up? It was first announced at 50$ and now it’s 55$. Sure, it’s only 5$ but it’s a bad business practice to go around changing prices after they’re announced… Sounds like bad planning.
Wouldn’t be surprised if they did it again after they announced the headliners for the final two days. It’s not like they’ve never done it…
It really depends on the venue and the circumstances. I think it is rude to set your chair down to hold your place and then go wandering all about the grounds seeing other acts and then feel you have agod given right to front row status. It is also rude to poor beer on peoples heads or to assume that people who may have back or mobility problems have no right to watch a concert. If the general rule is it is rude to sit down at a concert they would need to remove seats at every concert at Scotia Bank Place and ban people in wheelchairs or people with sciatica. I find rudeness is not the exclusive domain of either people in chairs or standing people.
Missed Chris Smither when he played the Ottawa Folkfest so I’m really happy he will be at Bluesfest. If you’ve never heard this guy check him out. A real hybrid of Folk and Blues. He’s an incredible finger picker and he’s got lyrics like Dylan.
Dude, this is so easy with you it should be a crime. So I listen to KD Lang do I ? Actually, I’m a mad smoker who enjoys The Band, The Beatles, Zep, Hendrix, The Black Crowes, Allman Bros, Ben Harper, Sonny Boy Williams and a list too long to mention for the likes of you. No where did I reference KD Lang, not my cup of tea, but the inference you made stating I like KD Lang is proof you’re nothing but a bloody redneck who gets stupid on beer and then screams the lyrics so no one can hear. Yup — I paid money to listen to your pathetic, drunken, hill-billy moaning. And to the other guy — when the main stage gets going, my chair is folded up and I stand like everyone else. Keither –face it, your parents and the public education system let you down –big time ….lol
How about all the chair people stay at the back. It drives me crazy when I cant get to the front because of all the chairs.
Then there are those who park the chairs up front and then leave and come back for the headliners.
If you bring a chair dont be an ass. When the band is on stand up and FOLD your chair.
There are way too many people standing in front of their chairs and then get pissed if you move the chair out of the way.
And finally if your sitting in a chair dont get mad when I stand in front of you. If you cant see STAND UP.
God I hate those chairs. I say if you see a chair without an ass in it pick it up fold it up and enjoy the space
I’m obviously not illiterate, and at least I don’t listen to K.D. Lang. Yes, sitting is rude to the band. They don’t think you’re into the show while sitting. When have you ever heard a band yell to the crowd, “Sit there and applaud us!” No, they say “Everybody get dancing and make some noise!” This is half the reason big bands don’t like playing in Ottawa. Because of lamewads like you, Ottawa is known for non-cheering, clapping fans. Also, in case you haven’t noticed, beer is a BIG part of bluesfest. Radiostations have even dubbed it BOOZEfest. No, I’m not a drunken idiot. I enjoy a few drinks with friends, and get a little silly, but I am certainly not a drunk and certainly not a fool. This is CANADA!! We drink beer, we make noise. Too bad you can’t join in our fun. I’ll be the one screaming the words to every KISS, STP, and Jeff Beck tune with my group of 30 friends on our giant blanket. Hey lawnchairsittersunite, you and your “friends” can stay home and drink your prune juice.
Come back and try again when you aren’t an asshole.
Keither …the only thing you managed to prove with your poorly written tirade is that you’re an illiterate fool who drinks too much. Sitting is rude to the band? No Keither–being a screaming drunken idiot is both rude to the band and everyone else who has the misfortune of being stuck near you. And …. I don’t live in the glebe nor do I listen to Ani Decfranco. Come back and try again when you sober up.
hey lawnchairsittersunite, so you admit that you’re a complainer? probably won’t see you, I won’t be at Ani Difranco or K.D. Lang, and if you can’t handle standing on your feet for a few measly hours, you’re in no shape to be making physical threats.
Why do people bring lawnchairs? What happened to sitting on blankets with friends, then standing up for the concert. The band might actually think you like them. You can’t see crap anyways so then you stand up WITHOUT folding your chair. Then I spill my beer on you cause I can’t see your damn chair, and you get mad at me? Not to mention it’s rude towards bands to be sitting at a festival. Lawnchairs should be BANNED while bands are playing. Hey lawchairsittersunite, there are way more people like me who hate lawnchairs than Glebe’ites like you who do nothing but bitch. You don’t deserve to be at Bluesfest, you lazy prick.
Hey Keither …. look forward to you trying to kick my chair this year …. you’ll know its me because I’ll be the guy standing over you when you wake up wondering what just happpened ….
I really doubt that Green Day will be announced for Bluesfest. They are playing Ottawa on the 17th and Bluesfest already has their headliners set for that day.
Green Day will be playing their own show at Scotiabank Place most likely.
You guys are ungrateful. This line-up isn’t the best, but it is very good. Why isn’t anybody even mentioning JEFF BECK? I mean, if you only went to see Jeff Beck, Stone Temple Pilots, KISS, Ludacris, Xavier Rudd and Joe Cocker, those alone are worth $200. Then add Green Day when it’s announced……. man I don’t know WTF you guys are complaining about. To all you complainers, just stay home. Your stupid lawnchairs get in my beer path. I’ll be kickin chairs this year.
With respect to the comment of Clapton being in Europe, Actually I have family attending his Albert Hall gig and that is in May. Actually, in June Clapton and Steve Winwood have 14 dates in North America. There are bound to be some July ad ons, Though it is probably too much to hope they would be at BluesFest .
From The Jam canceled their tour due to a close family members illness. So I guess the were coming. Bah so close
Anyone know if The Jam are playing. The build your own schedule has them playing hard rock at 9. They are not listed anywhere else on the site.
I’ll keep my fingers crossed on this one even without Weller it would be awesome
I was wondering about that too ( Mule). Chez 106 had them listed as playing. That certainly would be a wonderful bonus. Saw them in Montreal in 07 at the National …smoking show!
Does anyone know what happened to The Mule?
I’ve read articles that claim they are coming.
But no announcement yet. They would cap off an already splendid lineup.
Very exciting line up. I not sure how anyone could complain as there is something for everyone. If your still in doubt, just show up you will love it!!
KISS will be a big draw. Much bigger than a proposed VIRGINfest and I think this one will top any in recent memory. You all talk about European Festivals being what they are but Bluesfest ranks not only in size but in talent too. Be proud folks that this is in our country.
Wow, that New Mastersounds is tasty! Thanks for the heads-up.
Wow man …just checked out the New Mastersounds …holy crap! I really should have clicked on some links before shooting my mouth off …. lesson learned!
Sorry bungopony …I adressed you as Bonny before. Great articles …thnx.
Funny, I don’t remember that much rain, just once. Maybe I just ducked into the gospel tent. Missed Smoky, but saw Tony D’s legendary show-that-saved-Bluesfest (subbing for Gladys Knight). Citizen has some interesting archival clippings:
http://www2.canada.com/ottawacitizen/features/blues/story.html?id=833ee104-7598-4926-a320-f1242fb28f86
http://www2.canada.com/ottawacitizen/features/blues/classics.html
http://www2.canada.com/ottawacitizen/features/blues/classics_two.html
Hey Bonnie ….
I think I hold ‘99 in high regard because it was my first festival, and despite the constant deluge of rain, it made the music sound even sweeter. Yes, the little richard show was a ‘whole bunch bizarre’ …especially after he stopped mid-song to complain about Cdn taxes! … it was still a magical experience. I was 3 feet from Steve Cropper …John Hiatt…Smokey … man, it was incredible — and it made me fall in love with this town ( I’m from the east coast) …. enough to eventually move here.
Bonny,
Maybe some of the artists are past their prime, but there’s a lot of new talent (ie all those bands I’ve never heard of before) who are rising that we can see. Besides, not every band goes downhill — I’m sure the folkies griped about missing Dylan at his best when he plugged in in ‘65, or with Rolling Thunder in the ’70s. Is everything ideal? No, but Ottawa’s NOT a major market, and yet here we have a major festival.
BTW, with all due respect, 99 was my first year too, and I wouldn’t want to revert to that (apart from the prices — opening night was $5!). Some great stuff — Eric Burdon, Rod Piazza, Booker T & MGs — but Little Richard’s show was bizarre, the acoustic stage was drowned out almost completely, and the side stages ended at 8. I would like to see the Gospel Tent back, though.
My problem with the bluesfest is that they’re almost always late to the party. take the Drive-By Truckers for example. A once great band who, if there last two albums are any indications, have seen their better days. Why weren’t they here in years past when they were really hot? The Kings of Leon may be in Europe this summer, butr why haven’t they been here already? They’ve released four albums. Same with bands suchas Franz Ferdinand and the Hold Steady? All of these bands should have already played here and if they do in the future the moment will have passed, if you know what I mean. Brian Setzer’s Montreal Jazz Festival shows are legendary but those were in ‘94 and ‘95. It’s great that he’s coming but it’s almost fifteen years too late.
So –I just spent a few minutes listening to Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings. Whatever negative crap I was slinging before …I take back. See you all at the smaller stages.
You know … after taking some time to actually read some of the stuff I wrote… I think I was unfairly harsh. Yes I’m tired of Blue Rodeo and no… I do not understand why Styx is allowed to even play any more. It’s still a great festival. No, I’m not interested in Jackson Browne, KD Lang and a host of others. The good news is I’m going to see Ben Harper for a 5th time, Toots and the Maytals, Drive By Truckers, who just did an album with Booker T, Joe Cocker ( Mad Dogs and Englishmen is one of my fav albums of all time) ….so I guess the point is …while several main stage acts suck …I will still get to see some really good music. Why the change of heart? Well …after flashing a fat one …I realized I was being quite an idiot …. lol. God Love the Leaf …
Wow…
I am amazed by the negativity towrds this years lineup. It is one of the best mixes in music since 2003. There are dozens of phenomenal acts on all stages! Drive by Truckers, Neko Case, That 1 Guy, Matashysu, The Stills, HeyRosetta, Iron Wine, United Steel, DeVotchka, Steve Earle, Jeff Beck, Jackson Browne, Femi Kuti, Brian Setzer, Ben Harper… just to name a few.
Did anybody actually look at the other stages, or just the headliners?
Reppob …
Excellent points. Yes, Neil was here recently –however you put him outside on a warm summer evening and instead of 10 thousand people inside Scotia Bank Place, you get 50,000 outside.
I’m not saying the whole thing sucks. Ben Harper is one of my all time fav artists and this will be the 5th time I’ve seen him. Jeff Beck is a guitar God …Toots and the Maytalls …hells ya. Even Joe Cocker, man.
Where I draw the line is Styx and Blue Rodeo yet again. You made excellent points and you have good taste in music. I still think we can compete on the world stage though …
Keep on keeping on, dude
New to Ottawa,
I don’t like Blue Rodeo AGAIN either. Frankly I’mn going to Green Day instead
Styx is pretty lame too I will agree.
Neil Young Europe .. .. and just played ottawa
Clapton Europe
NIN, jane’s addiction, kings of leon, the killers, mars volta, chris cornell, etc all in europe this summer.
There’s a trend. With 10 HUGE festivals in Europe over june/july that probably draw as many people as Bluesfest in half (or less) days, we’re always going to get this type of lineup.
I think that Bluesfest is becoming world class, but I think it will always be a “bit of everything” festival.
Hell my favorite music is heavy rock/alternative. Personally I could do with more alternative/hard-rock acts that AREN’T canadian and are actually relevant. But what can one do …. =).
Jeff Beck, Neko Case, Land of Talk & Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings…Bluesfest rules!
Blue Rodeo played Bluesfest in 01 …03…05…07 and again this year. The only year I could be mistaken in 05. So — in 8 years they have been here 4 possibly 5 times ….which makes it pretty much every year. Now ….Great Big Sea has also been here at least 3 times in 8 years. Does Mr. Monohan know you’re spending your time on these message boards instead of working on his festival?
Blue Rodeo has NOT played every year… GET YOU FACTS STRAIGHT~!
Ocheaga Festival in Montreal is a good one for the younger generations, they often bring some interesting acts, this year they are bringing Beastie Boys and ColdPlay among others, check it out!
Reppob …. Bluesfst in the 2nd largest bluesfest in North America…it is really a stretch to think it should compete with other festivals? I don’t expect it to be the end all be all …I expect the person running it to bring more than blue rodeo every year. And Styx …well …. really don’t think a comment is necessary. Where are the Allman Brothers, who are celebrating their 40th year? Where is Neil Young …Clapton? Again, if the best monohan can do is blue rodeo, Great Big Sea and the Hip every other year, than new blood and new ideas must come forth — and if that is preciptated from VirginFest competition …so be it.
It’s not meant to compete with those festivals. I’ve attended Coachella and Lolla last year. Bluesfest has a small budget. Like Coachella throws that money at ONE artist (The Smiths were offered 5M).
It’s not the best lineup, and it’s not the worst. If they added acts like Radiohead, Tool, Kings of Leon … they would still get the same number of people. Frankly I’d be scared to see how many in Ottawa would come to those acts … I bet you fewer than the number that come for KISS or Blue Rodeo … sad but true.
Every year it’s different. With euro festivals running the same time, the talent pool is cut in half (if not more). If you want an indie fest … go to Pitchfork …. if you want nothing but superstars … go to Coachella. Quit expecting this festival to be the end all be all.
I thought Bluesfest was trying to compete with the other ‘ all star’ summer festivals like Bonnaroo, Coachella (sp), Mountain Jam, the one in Detroit …etc?
Whats up with Monday July 13th? Only STP playing, and no one else? LOL Please add Arcade Fire on the 13th, and I won’t care who else is playing that evening!
I agree, Branson will for sure make Ottawa summers more interesting and fun once he decides to bring the Virgin Fest to Ottawa, and thid will give the Bluesfest a run for its money. I don’t think it will happen this year though, but I’d love to be proven wrong.
Hey Holly …Sharon Jones is playing again this year …along with Blue Rodeo….lol
Any bets on Great Big Sea being named to round out the festival on the final Sat and Sun night? … I’d say the chances are pretty good …lol
I’d like to see Sharon Jones at Bluesfest. Oh, no, wait, I’ve already seen Sharon Jones at Bluesfest and only two years ago to boot.
The blues are a dying art form RODAN? You’re kidding right? Blues music is rock and roll. And yes, many are complaining about Monohan and his obvious complacency. 1999 was the first year I bought a pass and many consider it to be one of the best years ever. Oddly enough — there was no Styx, Blue Rodeo or Great Big Sea that year. All this will change soon enough when Virgin radio brings it’s VirginFest to town. A little competition is EXACTLY what Monohan needs. Btw …. don’t care who you are, you cannot effectively argue in favour of the name …Summer Vacation? That’s exactly what many will be taking this year –AWAY FROM BLUESFEST.
Wow, what a lot of negativity from people who are sitting in their comfy chairs. Say what you will about one or two of the bands — with that many on the bill, NO ONE will like them all — the full bill is a very impressive collection of music (with 2 headliners still to be added).
Monahan has, over a relatively short time, developed a world-class music festival in a fairly small market. Kudos to him. Would you rather it be small and limited? Look back at the lineups for 98 or 99 — many of the headliners would today be relegated to the side stages (which back then ended in the early evening).
Monahan books for what draws people in, and many people go to see Blue Rodeo and, yes, Styx. If you don’t like Styx, who cares? Go see Les Claypool, or Alan Parsons, or Coeur de Pirate. Me, I’ll be shaking it at Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings.
Wow. How disappointing is that line-up? My husband and I discussed it last ngiht and we couldn’t imagine there being $450 worth of fun to be had during those 12 days. A lot of aggravation with crowds and lawn chairs, sure, but not much else. Too bad. Montreal Jazz Festival, here we come!
A little … underwhelming. I’m debating on whether to get the full pass this year or not. The side stages actually look pretty good (some good roots/blues/alternative/folk acts) but the headliners are mixed. Jeff Beck and Ben Harper get things off to a good start. But then there are too many washed up arena rock bands. Meanwhile some of the more musically credible acts aren’t exactly on the A-list (Jackson Browne, Brian Setzer).
If I could get a pass for the side stages only for half price, I’d certainly go. As it stands, I’m not sure it’s good value for money anymore.
Attacking Monaghan is wrong on so many levels chaps. Unfortunately the blues are a dying art form and one way to get people to come out and hear these bands are to entice them with saturated blues or good old fashioned rockn’roll. I think Mark has done a wonderful job not of only promoting the blues by bringing large acts here but by keeping the scene fresh with lots of new acts.
Possible act to be added to the bill. Paul Rogers and Bad Company.
http://www.badcompany.com/
Good point
Alex, I totally agree about Buckwheat and his ability to get the party going …you’re absolutely right. But again, I can’t help but think that Monohan, with out ever being challenged, has become complacent. You obviously have good taste in music Alex — do you want to see Blue Rodeo and Great Big Sea EVERY OTHER YEAR?
I hear ya! Hard to believe anybody is going to buy a ticket for Styx but in the ever shrinking blues world recycling acts as amazing as Buckwheat(nobody sets the tone for a party better) is more than acceptable especially when they are booking living legends like Hubert Sumlin
Alex, I’m not complaining about BuckWheat coming back — I’m complaining that Monohan just recycles bands …. he has become lazy after all these years. We need new blood or a competing festival. You can’t tell me a years’ worth of work brought us Styx? Styx …are you freaking kidding me
We live in such an awesome world where Holy Fuck, Ludacris, and Kiss can all be considered blues! RAWK.
Wow, somebody is actually complaining that Buckwheat Zydeco is coming back to the Bluesfest!
Underwhelmed for sure but we were really spoiled last year. 2008 had plenty of young bands, this year it’s the old guys. Just my luck the only band I’m completely stoked about is The National and I will have to pay $50 to see them (thanks KISS).
Not one person I’ve spoken to this afternoon has said they’ll be buying a pass. General feeling from what I can tell is underwhelemd at best. Too many repeat acts and way too many washed up acts. Bigger definitely isn’t better as this line up shows. I mean, really–Styx? In 2009? That’s just sad.
Sorry you don’t see it my way ChuckSuey — I guess we’ll agree to disagree …
Great variety of acts. It will never be all things to all people. Lots of blues. No MULE—bummer. Didn’t think it would happen as they are in the midwest and west and a one-off would be too difficult. Rather see them at the Civic Centre anyway with Michael Franti opening… That would be a show!
Looking forward to July
ok Jo — Buckwheat Zydeco has been here at least 3 times…JW Jones…every year …Shameika Copeland was here in 03. Certainly is Bluesy …lol.
Ok ChuckSuey ….’ Does it really matter what the festival is called? Is it really that important? They’ve inducted acts such as Madonna, Michael Jackson and Run DMC, should it still be called the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame? Axl Rose is the only original member left, should he still call it Guns N’ Roses? The name is only a brand! ‘
That’s right ChuckSuey, the name is the brand and if you knew anything about marketing, you might understand that. I have been a reg festival goer since 99 — it will stop this year. I don’t know ANYONE who wants to see Blue Rodeo ten times …seriously. Blue Rodeo is booked EVERY year because its an easy way out. The management of bluesfest ERRR… PopFest needs to change. New ideas …new blood.
Oh and chop or chucksuey or whatever….the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a joke. Madonna may be a brilliant business woman but she has ABSOLUTELY no right to be inducted. Unless the name has changed to the POP Hall of Fame. Tell your uncle mark monohan to get some new blood in there …QUICK
Some good points, with which I tend to agree.
But I have talked with some friends and co-workers, and most of them, for the first time ever, will not be buying the festival pass this year, and will instead pay at the gate for 2 or 3 shows, which will cost them less than $100.
Looking at some of the other festivals happening this summer, the Bluesfest lineup is poor and depressing in comparison. But it is not surprising, we are a gvt. town afterall, so conservative is the name of the game.
I still remain optimistic that the organizers will surprise us with a a few big announcements in the next couple of months.
Does it really matter what the festival is called? Is it really that important? They’ve inducted acts such as Madonna, Michael Jackson and Run DMC, should it still be called the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame? Axl Rose is the only original member left, should he still call it Guns N’ Roses? The name is only a brand! The musical focus of the festival has changed as it grew, and the Ottawa Bluesfest name has gained recognition throughout the world. It would be foolish to change it, even if the number of blues artists playing the festival has diminished considerably.
I’m also underwhelmed by the lineup, but look at it this way: for 200$ you can either go see Aerosmith and ZZ Top play for a few hours, or you can attend 12 days of live music. You can call it the Kazoo Festival, the important thing is that it takes place in our city!
Personally, I dig the line-up, rivals the one from 2 years ago. There’s a little something for everyone in there.
Classic rock (KISS, Styx)
Boomer rock (Joe Cocker)
90’s (STP, Our Lady Peace)
Electronic (Girl Talk, Crystal Castles)
Indie Kids (Ani, Devotchka, Iron and Wine)
Hip Hop (Ludacris)
I agree, it should not be called Bluesfest anymore, and this is probably the weakest lineup yet. Why not call it Has-Been Fest?
I can only see myself going to one show (STP on July 13).
I do however remain optimistic that some other interesting, worthwhile big acts are added in the next couple months, as this has been the tendency in the past years.
Particularly, I would like to see Arcade Fire added. MGMT is another one, they will be in New York around the time of Bluesfest, so it should be easy to get them to come.
Henry Butler, Hubert Sumlin, Louisiana Red, Joe Louis Walker, Sugar Blue, Shameka Copeland, David Maxwell, Brian Setzer Orchestra, Buckwheat Zydeco, Cedric Burnside & Lightnin’ Malcom, Daddy Mack Blues Band, JW Jones Band w/ Charlie Baty……..
Bluesfest looks pretty bluesy to me!
ok man ….thought Gov’t Mule was scheduled to play? Sam Roberts and Blue Rodeo AGAIN? That’s what? 8 of 10 years for Blue Rodeo ….looks like the ruler Monohan has gotten quite a bit lazy —that’s what it is when there is NO COMPETITION. Our Lady Peace …yup ..that’s a show-stopper. Where is Paul Simon …the Allman Brothers …Grand Funk Railroad? Jeff Beck, Ben Harper, Toots and the Maytals and maybe three other bands I’d be willing to pay to see. Summer Vacation? Wow — all the good names were used already? I’ll gladly take a job in the marketing department. We need a competing festival. And PLEASE STOP CALLING IT BLUESFEST…call it a Pop Fest or Music Fest ….it hasn’t ben a blues fest since 99.
probably the strongest lineup ever
Probably the weakest Bluesfest lineup ever.
Can’t wait to see what the schedule looks like. I just hope the bands I want to see don’t end up playing at the same time.
PS: Skydiggers!!!
You’ve been following us for months~! So we finally announce our line up and not even a tweet?
Hope you guys can make in July, would love to meet you.
Sarah
Ani Difranco
Joe Cocker
Ludicrous
STP
Styxx
The National
Yardbirds
Our Lady Peace
If it really was a “blues-only” festival they would struggle to get 1/3 the people they do.
It’s really a “music” festival. Which is better anyways =).
What a disappointing line-up. Who’s responsible for this? If Iggy Pop doesn’t come than I’m not even going to bother showing up… and I live within walking distance too. Is it not possible to get more blues artist or at least relevant ones? Has anyone even considered Chuck Berry or Jerry Lee Lewis? Yeah, they still perform.
Kiss is now confirmed…
http://www.kissonline.com/news/
Ben Harper. Confirmed. July 9th.
bring SAM ROBERTS back … that would make 4 yrs in a row he played Bluesfest.
Greenday is playing scotiabank place on the 17th. Or so I heard on the radio. Here’s hoping for some Arcade Fire.
Live: http://www.tourtracker.com/shows/live/cisco-ottawa-bluesfest/16-07-2009/965082-1018705
if green day are playing their own show, they will not play bluesfest.
Any word if Green Day is playing Bluesfest ???
They just announced a show in Ottawa on July 17th.
Rodrigo Y Gabriela?
G. Love , Blues Traveler , R7 , ?????
Ahhh, good point about OLP. The show in Sarnia is also featuring Stone Temple Pilots, who are rumoured to be a part of the Ottawa Bluesfest lineup.
What about OLP & STP & SLOAN???
both are playing bayfest in Sarnia July 11th
OLP is playing Halifax in Aug w/ Sloan for our troops.
Eddie Vedder is making a strong push for Bluesfest.
Cake, July 17 / 2009, posted on a forum and on their site.
-Ben Harper/ Relentless 7, Stone Temple Pilots , The Allmans , Spearhead is always nice … If we could get a couple of these bands the fest would look a little better .
I hope these rumours are just that–rumours. Terrible lineup otherwise. Will they actually be able to sell tickets for these acts?
Doobie Brothers are in Ontario late July. Why not Ottawa in mid-July?
It’s amazing that Jeff Beck is coming! Also Chris Smither, Sugar Blue and Michael Jerome Brown are all serious roots players. They need to bring back Shirley Ceaser, Terry Evans, Anson Funderburgh, Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials, Taj Mahal, Allen Toussaint. Blues, gospel and roots acts that stole the show last year.
How about getting Jeff Martin & his new band called The Armada. This list so far is shite. Bluesfest would be a perfect venue for a tea party. They’re coming off a tour in Australia from May-June. They’re not going back on the road til August for Europe.
Talked to Jack de Keyzer a few weeks ago in Aylmer. Told me he wasn’t coming to Bluesfest this year!
http://www.kissonline.com/
Ottawa
David Maxwell
http://www.davidmaxwell.com/
jack de keyzer
http://www.jackdekeyzer.com/myspace/tourdates2009nobookmarksmyspace.htm
http://www.myspace.com/larrygarnerbluesband
larrygarnerbluesband
Bob taillefer
http://www.bobtaillefer.com/2009/03/bob-at-the-ottawa-blues-
fest-2009/
Matt Andersen confirmed July 14.
http://www.myspace.com/mattandersenmusic
Ben Harper/Relentless 7 and the Allmans would be nice
If the Paul Simon and Joe Cocker rumours are true, with Jeff Beck added in, it could be a pretty good festival. ‘07 and ‘99 will always be my favorites!
Xavier Rudd is confirmed!
Directly from his mouth, “We’re playing the Ottawa bluesfest again this year. It should be a good time”
Count on Xavier Rudd coming back…
Victor Wainwright: http://eventful.com/ottawa/events/victor-wainwright-/E0-001-020621623-5
oh debaser i know that Sled Islands been discussed. I know Zak the head curator of the fest. Seeing as i know him personally you’d think he maybe would be a good pal and let me in on some better names than the Hawaiian Bibles and Oldfolkshome. There will be awesome headliners, there has been the last 2 years, just wish there was more info by this point.
Those Kathleen Edwards dates are from LAST year.
But since she’s from Ottawa she’ll likely come again
how about a wish (Dream)list I,ll start
Allman Brothers, Gov’t Mule, Derek Trucks Band, Buddy Guy, Santana and Clapton w/ Winwood.
hey I did say wish list. No disrespect to the other artists or their fans for that matter, their all good. Only Jeff Beck has got my attention so far.
Latest rumors from today’s Ottawa Sun
http://www.ottawasun.com/Showbiz/Music/2009/04/01/8958501-sun.html
Some names that have already been mentioned (KISS, Jeff Beck, Jackson Browne, Stone Temple Pilots) and a few new ones (Iggy Pop, B-52’s)
bobby, sled island has been discussed: http://consequenceofsound.net/festival-outlook/sled-island-festival/
and there is no news on a clagary vfest this year as of yet.
bluefest is starting to buzz cos’ acts are being rumored and announced and it’s become a huge event in ottawa that keeps growing. they had big name headliners last year too and it looks like they are gonna do the same this year!
I can’t believe this many people, come to this board to discuss this festival? Not a bad fest i hear, it just really surprises me that this many people would care to rumour about Bluesfest in Ottawa. You’re a smaller city than Calgary and they had Virgin and Sled Island which nobody could care about on these boards. Way to go Ottawa peeps, you know how to stir up buzz for a fest!
Kathleen Edwards on July 09. Confirmed according to her facebook site http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/note.php?note_id=39924020575&ref=mf
Look up. Look way up. I told you on Feb. 10 that he was coming.
Jeff Beck. Believe it or not, confirmed. July 8th.
http://www.jeffbeck.com
*closes dropped jaw*
first visit to ottawa…ever. am i the only one wondering how this was pulled off?
…Jeff Beck. Believe it or not, confirmed. July 8th.
http://www.jeffbeck.com
*closes dropped jaw*
first visit to ottawa…ever. am i the only one wondering how this was pulled off?
Yeah this year has me weary too, but I think they’ll do a good job of getting a lot of solid acts as opposed to trying to get just “headliners”.
As an aside …
As I’ve heard from friends who have played the festival, Bluesfest isn’t a very high-paying festival (they’re getting better) and they are too restrictive for many acts,
The ridiculous time curfew is already one reason many acts have yet to come (My Morning Jacket is a prime example) and secondly many artists have (and will continue) to play other shows in Canada (Ontario even) during Bluesfest because they can make more money with their own shows.
Look at Robert Plant/Krauss and STP last year.
No Doubt looks to be skipping by this year.
Bluesfest is 11 days long… there’s plenty of time for people who are in BC to get to Ottawa. Especially when Corpfest… er… I mean um… Bluesfest shells out the big bucks to bring them here. Gotta say tho… as someone who has gone to every Bluesfest except maybe 1 of them… this rumour list has me a little disappointed and weary of this year’s lineup.
Same thing for Michael Jerome Browne. He is playing in BC during Bluesfest.
Death Cab are playing the west coast during Bluesfest. Quite the feat for them to fly all the way across for one show =).
Edgar Winter is playing in Pointe Claire Que. on July 12th.
Susan Tedeschi and Buddy guy are in Montreal in July.
I’ve heard Death Cab for Cutie and Ben Harper have been booked…
Loggins & Messina are touring around the east beginning in July. They would appeal to the Bluesfest Boomer crowd.
Michael Jerome Browne is playing folkfest, which kind of eliminates him from Bluesfest, doesn’t it?
>Hopefully? You’re kidding right?
Yes hopefully.
Otherwise who is there? Kid Rock? Lynyrd Skynyrd? More rap? Those 4 are a better option (my opinion).
I’m crossing my fingers that Tool decide to come.
Jackson Browne on July 10 according to
http://www.musicbox-online.com/tour.html
Jackson Browne will perform the following concerts: July 7-8 at Casino Rama in Orilia ON, July 10 at LeBreton Flats in Ottawa ON, July 11 at Salle Wilfrid Pelletier Place des Arts in Montreal
Hopefully? You’re kidding right?
Kiss, STP, Counting Crows, and The Trews are all playing Sarnia Bayfest.
Hopefully they all decide to book Bluesfest.
Stone Temple Pilots are playing in Montreal,Sarnia, Toronto and Quebec City around the same time. Bluesfest is a possibility.
Ryan Shaw: http://www.tourtracker.com/shows/ryan-shaw/cisco-ottawa-bluesfest/09-07-2009/939649-551957
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any waorse: Joe Cocker.
PARSONS! ALLRIGHT!!!!
The man is a legend!
anyone hear anything about ben harper at bluesfest for 2009?
I heard that Beastie Boys were approached but they turned it down….
Green Day and Beastie Boys have new albums.
Counting Crows and Bon Jovi are in the area too.
anyone hear if Lynyrd Skynyrd and kid Rock might be playing? Just curious
Senior citizens and yesterday’s hip indie bands. Pretty sleepy festival so far.
Belle and Sebastian, Beirut and Paul Simon is headlining….
Major Maker and Yes…..Arcade Fire
Kiss is in Montreal on the 14th of July. So they could easily play bluesfest….
Jackson Browne is confirmed for July 10 according to Celebrity Access.
Good catch. Let’s play it safe and move them to rumors for now…
While I do think that Kiss will end up playing Bluesfest, the dates are all wrong on the Crooked X myspace.
Bluesfest is July 9-19, not sure how they can play there with Kiss on July 4…
From Myspace:
Crooked X
07-04-2009 19:00atCisco Ottawa Blues Fest
, Ottawa, Ontario
Cost:
with KISS
Hall and Oates?
Jeff Beck will be in Montreal July 6th, (got my tickets!!!!), and Quebec City July 9th. he won’t be in Europe at least nothing is official yet. I can dream can’t I but we usually miss the big acts which is why I bought Montreal tickets.
Jeff Beck will ber in Montreal July 6th, (got my tickets!!!!), and Quebec City July 9th. he won’t be in europe at least nothing is official yet. I can dream can’t I but we usually miss the big acts which is why I bought Montreal tickets.
Jackson Browne is playing in Ottawa on July 10 as venue ‘TBA’…. my guess is Bluesfest.
yeah guess i was reading past dates. Awesome
DAvid Lindley is also coming.
Beck is coming. He was in Europe last year during Bluesfest.
jeff beck is playing Salle Wilfrid-Peletier in Montreal on July 6th as part of the Montreal Jazz festival.
Jeff Beck is in Europe during Bluesfest so thats not happening
Los Lonely Boys July 10.
Jeff Beck is coming, too.
Alan Parsons, Chris Smither, and Dave Mason are also confirmed according to celebrityaccess.com