Good music being shared for a great cause! That's always been the aim of Simon's Pub Music Festival, and not only is the popular festival back, but it's also turning 20! To celebrating this milestone, the team behind Simon’s Pub Music Festival has been working hard to put on a bigger and better edition. Perhaps one of the most special aspects about this festival is that the line-up on offer doesn't just present established acts but also allows space for upcoming artists; a successful mix of old and new faces, young and seasoned talent that promises something for everyone.
Over the years, the festival has also featured foreign talent alongside what our islands can offer, and this year is no different. Canadian singer-songwriter Kelly Sloan is an artist whose music references different influences - from soul and blues to rock and jazz. Kelly has been awarded the Galaxie Rising Star Award and has performed in major festivals, gathering attention from music-critics across the globe. Since emerging into the scene, she has released four albums, the latest being Big Deal which is out at the end of May. (Listen here)
From the local scene, this year’s line-up includes Red Electrick, now back with new frontman Joe Roscoe. The full line-up includes Jay Minor, Fiona, Chris Grech, Lyndsay, Dusk, The Myth, The Phlaparoos, Native, The Odd Omen, Noogie’s Crew, Rise, Citizen One, The American Airlines, Purple Haze, Spirit of Voices, Julian Casha, Therese, Explicit, Deflecto, Luke Baldacchino, Family 3, Charlene Magro, ColourBlind, BnBees and Mirage.
Simon’s Pub was open back in 1982 and throughout the years, it become somewhat of a hangout place for musicians and band members. Besides being popular with the locals, it also hosts a lot of tourists and Simon has compiled a memorabilia of items from all over the world, all of which are spread out in the bar.
All proceeds from entrance fees will be donated to Inspire Foundation, a local NGO that works with persons with a disability helping them reach their full potential. This annual festival has become a crucial part of the NGO’s fundraising efforts, and over the years, over €100,000 have been collected through this event.
This year, the festival kicks off on Friday, May 4 at 7pm. On Saturday, May 5, the performances also start at 7pm. However, on Sunday, May 6, the bands start performing at 1pm outside the pub in Depiro Street, Sliema. There is no need to pre-book, simply turn up on the day, contribute a small donation and join the fun!
The festival is being sponsored by CISK, Gasan Mamo, Olimpus, Seashells Resort, Charles Grech, Pink October, Griffith & Associates and XFM.
For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/570647219980151/.