Rhiannon Giddens, the GRAMMY and Pulitzer Prize-winning artist, has unveiled additional performers for her inaugural Biscuits & Banjos Festival, celebrating Black music, art, and culture. The highly anticipated event, set to take place in downtown Durham, North Carolina, has officially sold out.
Festival Highlights:
- Rhiannon’s Old Time Revue: A dynamic showcase of Black string band traditions, featuring multi-generational performances by Giddens and her newly formed old-time band.
- Carolina Chocolate Drops Reunion: The first reunion in over a decade of the influential group, with original members Dom Flemons, Justin Robinson, and others joining Giddens onstage.
Newly Announced Artists:
The expanded lineup includes:
- Adia Victoria: Acclaimed singer-songwriter exploring Southern Gothic themes.
- Don Vappie & Jazz Creole: Renowned for blending Creole jazz with traditional string band elements.
- Infinity Song: A family ensemble known for their rich vocal harmonies and versatility.
- Toshi Reagon: A genre-defying artist celebrated for her innovative music and activism.
- Notable Speakers: Alice Randall, Caroline Randall Williams, Dr. Dena Ross Jennings, and Mychal Threets.
Immersive Cultural Experience:
Curated by Giddens, the festival will span three days across indoor and outdoor venues in Durham, blending music, literature, food, and visual arts. Highlights include:
- Interactive workshops, free banjo lessons, and square dances.
- A celebrity chef biscuit bake-off celebrating Southern culinary traditions.
Giddens, who has deep ties to Durham, emphasizes the city’s significance: “Durham’s vibrant community, artistic scene, and rich Black heritage make it the perfect home for Biscuits & Banjos. This festival is about honoring history while showcasing the dynamic evolution of Black culture.”
For more details and waitlist information, visit biscuitsandbanjos.com.
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central