Yesterday an announcement came that YOU, yes YOU…if you are a musician, songwriter, etc…could have a chance to play the Museum Stage at the Newport Folk Festival this year.
Newport is renowned for giving a few slots to up and coming acts that make their way onto Jay Sweet’s radar. Spirit Family Reunion two years ago made a HUGE splash on the Harbor stage. The Deslondes killed it last year as well, the bug making its way into the NFF committees ears via another Newport favorite: Hurray for the Riff Raff. And this year I will already beam with delight as my dear friends Haunt the House and Ian Fitzgerald make debuts on one of the 4 main stages (though Will played previously ala a different act and did a pop up last year and Ian played the Newport Eve event and the Late July tent last year). Newport is big into the idea of lifting up great musicians and songwriters whether they are an internationally touring mainstay or a gent with a guitar who has been hitting the road hard and gigging night after night. Its part of what makes it so special.
Now, the part you have been waiting for (from Converse Music’s website):
Since it first began in 1959, the Newport Folk Festival has brought together artists and fans for some of the most definitive live performances in music history.
This year, Converse Rubber Tracks is teaming up with the Newport Folk Festival to offer three emerging artists the chance to join the festival and perform live on the Newport Folk Fest Museum Stage.
After the performance, the selected artists will have the opportunity to spend two days recording at the brand new Converse Rubber Tracks studio in Boston. Veteran engineer Seth Manchester of Rhode Island’s Machines With Magnets will produce the sessions.
Registrations Close: July 17
Performance Date: Friday, July 24
Recording sessions: Winning artists will have two recording days between July 27 – August 1
So take a spin and hit the link below for a chance to play one of the most special festivals or musical events on the planet.