2017 Upstream Music Fest + Summit: First Wave of Artists Announced

Upstream Music Fest + Summit, Local Music, Daily Roundups
02/23/2017
KEXP

KEXP is excited to announce the first wave of artists playing the inaugural Upstream Music Fest + Summit, Thursday, May 11th, through Saturday, May 13th, in locations all over Pioneer Square.

Upstream describes the lineup as "a love letter to music discovery in our region," and just take a look at this first round of 100 artists: Flying Lotus, AlunaGeorge, Shabazz Palaces, Snarky Puppy, Beat Connection, Iska Dhaaf, Mike McCready and friends, Thunderpussy, Grace Love, Hibou, The Grizzled Mighty, The Maldives, and that's barely scratching the surface.This three-day festival aims "to promote music discovery, spark transformative conversations and foster opportunities for emerging artists and the industry within the new entertainment economy." Pioneer Square will be transformed with a main stage at CenturyLink Field’s North Lot, a free public stage in Occidental Park presented by us, and over 25 intimate stages throughout the neighborhood. Expect some intimate performances and some unexpected collaborations!

Earlier this year, Upstream announced the keynote speakers: Quincy Jones, Macklemore, and Portia Sabin, president of the independent record label Kill Rock Stars. This year's themes include "Many Rivers to Cross: How The Music Industry Is Adapting to The Streaming Model and Beyond," "Digital Witness: How Data Drives Creativity," "World Town: How Local Artists Go Global and Global Artists Stay Local," and "In a Future Age: Industry Collision in the New Music Economy."

Stay tuned! Even more artists will be announced soon. For more lineup and ticketing information, check out their website here.

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