To get you warmed up for the headline acts at this year’s BOARDMASTERS FESTIVAL, we thought we’d have some fun. Rather than bombarding you with video clips and Spotify links, we decided to gather 10 fascinating facts about each of the headliners so you can learn a little more about them. Some may be obvious but I’m sure there are some in there that you never knew.After you have read the feature, why not impress your friends with this new found knowledge?
On Friday night, New Zealand pop princess LORDE will be closing the festival, here’s 10 interesting things that we never knew about her…
Musical Prodigy: Lorde, whose real name is Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor, became interested in music at a young age. At just 13 years old, she signed a record deal and released her debut EP, showcasing her incredible talent and maturity as a songwriter.
Unique Stage Name: Many people wonder how Lorde came up with her stage name. Well, it's actually a reference to her fascination with aristocracy and royalty. She was captivated by a photograph of former MLB player George Brett, who was a Kansas City Royal, and "Lorde" was born.
Songwriting Sensation: One of Lorde's incredible talents is her ability to write captivating and relatable lyrics. She often draws inspiration from her personal experiences and observations, making her music deeply introspective and thought-provoking.
Environmental Activism: Lorde is not just a talented musician; she's also passionate about making a positive impact on the world. She actively supports environmental causes and has used her platform to raise awareness about climate change and the need for sustainability.
Multi-instrumentalist: In addition to her incredible vocal talent, Lorde is also proficient in playing various instruments. She has been known to play the guitar, piano, and drums, showcasing her versatility as a musician.
Grammy Success: Lorde achieved widespread recognition and critical acclaim early on in her career. In 2014, her debut album "Pure Heroine" was nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album. She won two Grammys for her hit single "Royals."
Youthful Empowerment: Lorde's music often resonates with younger audiences because she explores themes of youth, identity, and empowerment. Her songs encourage listeners to embrace their individuality and embrace their flaws, making her a powerful role model for many.
Wide Range of Influences: Lorde's musical influences are as diverse as they are intriguing. She has cited artists like David Bowie, Prince, and Kanye West as inspirations for her unique sound, blending elements of pop, indie, and electronic music to create her signature style.
Love for Literature: Lorde is known for her poetic and lyrical approach to songwriting, which can be attributed, in part, to her love for literature. She has expressed admiration for authors like J.D. Salinger and Raymond Carver, who have influenced her storytelling and lyrical techniques.
Collaborative Spirit: Lorde has collaborated with other renowned artists, including Disclosure and Khalid, showcasing her willingness to explore different genres and experiment with new sounds. These collaborations have resulted in unique and captivating musical experiences for her fans.
Onto Saturday night when ‘Our Kid’ Liam Gallagher will be gracing the stage to perform solo tracks as well as a few OASIS classics thrown in to keep the fans happy!
Legendary Britpop Frontman: Liam Gallagher is best known as the former lead vocalist of the iconic band Oasis, which was one of the defining acts of the Britpop movement in the 1990s. His distinct voice and energetic stage presence helped Oasis achieve massive success and become a cultural phenomenon.
Brotherly Rivalry: Liam's relationship with his older brother, Noel Gallagher, who was also a member of Oasis, was famously tumultuous. The feuds and arguments between the two brothers often made headlines, adding an extra layer of drama and intrigue to their music.
Rock 'n' Roll Swagger: Liam Gallagher is renowned for his cool and confident rock 'n' roll persona. He exudes an air of swagger and rebellion, with his iconic fashion sense, swaggering walk, and bold attitude, making him an enduring style icon for many.
Unfiltered and Outspoken: Liam is known for his unfiltered and outspoken nature. He's never been one to hold back his opinions, whether it's about music, politics, or other artists. His candid and sometimes controversial interviews have earned him a reputation for being refreshingly honest and unapologetic.
Oasis Anthems: Oasis produced a string of timeless anthems that continue to resonate with fans of all ages. Songs like "Wonderwall," "Don't Look Back in Anger," and "Champagne Supernova" have become classics and are often sung along to by enthusiastic crowds at festivals and concerts.
Solo Success: Following the breakup of Oasis, Liam embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums such as "As You Were" and "Why Me? Why Not." His solo work has been well-received, showcasing his enduring talent as a songwriter and performer.
Love for Football: Liam Gallagher is a passionate football fan and a dedicated supporter of Manchester City Football Club. His love for the sport often shines through in his music and public appearances, further endearing him to fans who share the same passion.
Memorable One-Liners: Liam is known for his quick wit and memorable one-liners. He has a knack for delivering sharp and often humorous remarks that have become legendary in their own right, adding an extra layer of entertainment to his public persona.
Philanthropic Efforts: While Liam is often associated with his rebellious image, he has also shown a caring and philanthropic side. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives, supporting causes such as cancer research, music education, and homelessness.
Timeless Rock 'n' Roll Spirit: Liam Gallagher embodies the timeless spirit of rock 'n' roll, capturing the essence of rebellion, passion, and freedom that has made the genre so beloved across generations. His music and persona continue to inspire young musicians and fans around the world.
Finally, it’s on to Sunday to see what we can unearth about a mesmerising band called Florence + The Machine, read on to find out….
Magical Beginnings: Florence Welch's love for music began at a young age. As a child, she used to sing to her parents' records, and her fascination with music grew from there. She formed Florence + the Machine in 2007, combining her ethereal vocals with a unique blend of indie rock, pop, and soul.
Lyrical Storytelling: Florence Welch is known for her poetic and evocative songwriting. Her lyrics often tell stories and explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. The band's music is deeply introspective and resonates with listeners of all ages, offering a cathartic and emotional experience.
Quirky Fashion Sense: Florence Welch's fashion sense is as distinctive as her music. She embraces a whimsical and eclectic style, often incorporating flowing dresses, vibrant patterns, and bohemian elements into her wardrobe. Her fashion choices inspire individuality and creativity, encouraging fans to express themselves through personal style.
The Power of Collaboration: Florence + the Machine has collaborated with various artists across different genres, showcasing their versatility and willingness to explore new sounds. They have collaborated with artists like Calvin Harris, Dizzee Rascal, and The Rolling Stones, demonstrating their ability to transcend musical boundaries.
Love for Literature and Art: Florence Welch's creativity extends beyond music. She has a deep appreciation for literature and art, which often influences her songwriting. She has cited authors like Virginia Woolf and poets like William Blake as sources of inspiration, infusing her music with literary references and imagery.
High-Energy Performances: Florence + the Machine's live performances are known for their high energy and captivating stage presence. Florence Welch's dynamic and emotive vocals, combined with the band's powerful instrumentals, create an immersive and unforgettable concert experience for their fans.
Humanitarian Efforts: Florence Welch is passionate about using her platform to make a positive impact. She has supported various charitable causes, including those focused on mental health awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and social justice. Her advocacy and philanthropic efforts make her a role model for young fans looking to create change.
Symbolic Imagery: The band's album covers and music videos often feature symbolic imagery and references, adding depth and visual storytelling to their music. These visual elements encourage fans to explore and interpret the band's music in their own unique ways.
Spirituality and Nature: Florence Welch has a deep spiritual connection with nature, often drawing inspiration from the natural world in her music. The band's lyrics frequently touch upon themes of spirituality, finding solace in nature, and embracing the interconnectedness of all living things.
Embracing Vulnerability: Florence Welch's music and public persona embrace vulnerability and raw emotions. She encourages her fans to embrace their own vulnerabilities and celebrate their imperfections, promoting self-acceptance and emotional authenticity.
So there you have it folks, 30 things about the three headline acts that will be appearing at this year’s BOARDMASTERS festival. Go and share this information with your friends or surprise them down the pub one afternoon with your limitless knowledge about these iconic acts.
For more information on the lineup for BOARDMASTERS, head to their site