BIGSOUND is gearing up to deliver another incredible lineup of keynotes, showcases and performances from September 3 to 6.
Our flights are booked and we’re all counting down the days until Australia’s biggest music industry event once again takes over Brisbane. Whether you’re an artist, an industry hotshot, or just a lover of Australian music, the festival offers a chance to expand your imagination, meet like-minded music fans and hear some damn good tunes.
It’s a jam-packed week, so if you’re getting a bit overwhelmed planning out your schedule, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 BIGSOUND events you absolutely cannot miss.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Kelis keynote
Music powerhouse Kelis is set to deliver her first major keynote presentation at BIGSOUND. Perhaps best known for her 2003 smash hit Milkshake, the singer has also ventured into the culinary world, becoming a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef in 2010. Her legacy and tenacity, along with her varied experiences, make this a major moment for the festival.
Tones & I keynote
Tones and I has soared from busking in Byron Bay to becoming the first woman to hit three billion Spotify streams. Her breakout single Dance Monkey marked the start of an extraordinary five-year journey. At BIGSOUND, Tones and I will sit down for an exclusive conversation with Myf Warhurst, reflecting on her meteoric rise and discussing her next chapter following the release of her second album, Beautifully Ordinary.
Elijah keynote
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Elijah, a London-based creative with 15 years of experience, is a creative consultant, writer, DJ, and co-founder of Butterz. His unique blend of artistic innovation and industry insight, with a strong focus on electronic music and sustainability, makes him a distinctive speaker on this year’s lineup. Elijah’s keynote is certainly one to catch for the burgeoning creative.
Glenn McDonald keynote
Glenn McDonald, best known for creating the hyper-specific genre exploration website Every Noise at Once, is set to deliver two keynotes at BIGSOUND. The first touches on the idea of ethical AI within music, a topical and complex question. McDonald’s second keynote consists of a deep dive into his complex career.
Amy Taylor keynote
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Amy Taylor, the frontwoman of Amyl and the Sniffers, has cemented her place in Australian rock history. From punk mosh pits in Mullumbimby to commanding stages worldwide, Amy’s journey has been remarkable. With explosive live shows and the critically acclaimed album Comfort to Me, the band has achieved global recognition, including top spots on charts and major festival appearances. Catch Amy at BIGSOUND to witness her unique blend of raw energy and lyrical prowess.
The BIGSOUND Sunset Cruise
Untitled Group, the organisers behind some of Australia’s largest festivals such as Beyond the Valley and Pitch Music & Arts, are throwing their own sunset cruise along the Brisbane River. With the lineup announcement of Brisbane’s Wildlands festival set to arrive alongside the cruise, you might even see a familiar face or two out on the riverside.
International House
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For the first time ever, BIGSOUND is expanding its international reach this year with exciting opportunities for global exchange. Key highlights include Canada’s Manitoba Music presenting on the Brunswick St Mall stage, Taiwan’s full venue takeover by the Taiwan Creative Content Agency on Sept 4, and Split Works’ showcase on Sept 5 featuring artists from China, South Korea, Malaysia and Taiwan. This is set to be a prime opportunity to witness and interact with international acts on the rise.
J Milla x Yung Milla showcase
Darwin-bred dynamic rap duo J-Milla and Yung Milla are electrifying BIGSOUND with their explosive hip-hop performance. Known for their standout styles and energetic shows, J-Milla is celebrated by Happy Mag as a dominant force, while triple j labels Yung Milla as “hot shit.” Don’t miss their Same Blood performance, the definitive hip-hop event of BIGSOUND 2024.
Artist v Advocacy panel
The idea of politics and music being intertwined is nothing new; most genres, movements, and subcultures stem from concepts of resistance and political individualism. This panel promises to explore the complexities of how artistry can align with advocacy in today’s global climate.
The Belair Lip Bombs
The Belair Lip Bombs are set to rock BIGSOUND with their infectious indie rock sound. Hailing from Frankston, Victoria, this close-knit band has gained momentum with their debut album, Lush Life. Featuring evolving songwriting and captivating indie arrangements, the album has earned global acclaim. Catch The Belair Lip Bombs at BIGSOUND as they gear up for a breakthrough year in 2024.
BIGSOUND will be held from 3 to 6 September 2024 at Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley precinct. Tickets are available here.
This article was made in partnership with BIGSOUND.
