On September 2nd through 5th, Bonnaroovians will make their way to Bonnaroo Farms for the 20th annual Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee. This beloved festival boasts a star-studded lineup, covering an array of genres and artists of all sizes. Headliners like Tyler, The Creator, Tame Impala, and RÜFÜS DU SOL certainly take the spotlight. But definitely don’t sleep on the smaller guys that Bonnaroo is putting on. To find some of these emerging artists, make sure to check out the Who Stage. Here’s five emerging artists that are performing at Bonnaroo’s Who Stage that we highly recommend you add to your schedule.
Five Emerging Artists You Should See Perform at Bonnaroo on the Who Stage
Bren Joy
It’s almost impossible to put Bren Joy in a box. His music merges elements of gospel, hip-hop, jazz, and pop into an alternative R&B fusion. He uses music to express different themes and emotions familiar to those going through their early twenties. Despite the emotion-filled vocals, Bren’s music holds a light sound that uplifts listeners and will surely have you vibing. Being born and raised in Nashville, Bren Joy doesn’t have to travel very far for his performance at the Bonnaroo Who Stage.
The Unlikely Candidates
The Unlikely Candidates are probably the largest artist hitting the Who Stage at Bonnaroo. The alternative rock mavericks are traveling from Fort Worth, Texas to serve us their impressive spectrum of music. Previously opening for Cage The Elephant, Young The Giant, Fall Out Boy, and more, their quality is certainly co-signed. It just so happens that their sound is somewhat a blend of those three mentioned artists. If you’re a fan of the golden era of alternative rock (2000’s through early 2010’s) then you won’t want to miss out on The Unlikely Candidates.
Charlotte Sands
Charlotte Sands was raised on pop punk bands, and it’s certainly evident in her music. She brings back that influential Paramore and Avril Lavigne sound but with her own modern twist. The Massachusetts native combines honest and self-reflective lyrics with upbeat melodies aloft poppy, punk rock instrumentals. She speaks to the misfits, so if that’s you, you’ll definitely want to head to the Who Stage for Charlotte Sands’ performance.
Goldpark
The Who Stage at Bonnaroo seems to be full of budding alternative and indie rock bands. We’re certainly not complaining either. Goldpark is another alternative rock band that is a must to check out at the festival. The Nashville native trio lays meaningful songwriting over lush soundscapes that captivate listeners. Though they cover themes of sorrow and despair at times, overall they represent true optimism. Goldpark aims to create music that helps guide people back to their true selves.
Bailey Bryan
Originally from Washington state, Bailey Bryan makes her way to the Who Stage at Bonnaroo now as a Nashville local. Her sasstress pop style incorporates elements of R&B and hip-hop, creating a contagious sound. Bailey Bryan is known for her vulnerable lyrics and emotional delivery comparable to artists like SZA. Bailey describes herself as a sensitive bad bitch, stating “know your worth, but still admit that your feelings can get hurt.” It’s a message you can really resonate with, and if that speaks to you, make sure to add Bailey Bryan’s set to your schedule and I will see you there.
Whatever paths you choose to take at Bonnaroo, you’re guaranteed to leave with lasting memories. So do yourself a favor, get out of your comfort zone and check out some of the emerging artists at the Bonnaroo Who Stage. Who knows, you may even discover your new all-time favorite artist.
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