BIGSOUND has announced Billy Bragg and Amanda Palmer will head to Brisbane in September as speakers for the Australian Music Conference 12th year.
Amanda Palmer became the poster child of crowd-funding when she raised more than $1 million from fans to produce her latest record. UK agitator Billy Bragg will also head up the speakers list guaranteeing a controversial conference program.
Australia’s Kasey Chambers and Regurgitator have also been announced to speak at BIGSOUND 2013.
The first round of artist showcase announcements includes Washington, Xavier Rudd, The John Steel Singers, Stonefield, Bleeding Knees Club, The Jungle Giants, Spit Syndicate, Dune Rats, Clubfeet, Thelma Plum, Citizen Kay and Little Bastard.
In total, 120 acts from Australia, New Zealand and Canada have been announced to perform at BIGSOUND 2013.
“BIGSOUND 2013 is already the biggest we’ve ever hosted and it’s only the first announcement,” said programmer Graham Ashton. “The tribe is growing from all corners of the world as BIGSOUND quickly becomes the Southern Hemisphere’s gathering for music-lovers and industry wanting the experience of seeing tomorrow’s big artists before they break.”
Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games Jann Stuckey said BIGSOUND was supported by Tourism and Events Queensland for a second consecutive year.
“The announcement of today’s program will see top national and international performers descend on Brisbane once again this September,” Ms Stuckey said. “The ever growing BIGSOUND program is another example of an event enhancing Brisbane’s reputation as a cultural hub, profiling the city’s diverse attractions and entertainment experiences.”
BIGSOUND 2013 will be held in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane from September 11-13.