Meet the Incredible Artists at Black Deer Festival 2023 : From Bonnie Raitt to Emilia Quinn

6 May

Presenting The Picture - Black Deer 2023

The Black Deer Festival is an annual celebration of Americana and country music held in Eridge Park, Tunbridge Wells, UK. Founded in 2018, the festival has quickly become one of the most anticipated events on the UK music scene. The festival offers a unique opportunity for music fans to enjoy a weekend of live performances, workshops, and activities surrounded by the beauty of the countryside.

Black Deer Festival 2023 boasts an incredible lineup of headliners and supporting acts from the world of Americana and country music. With a diverse lineup of artists, there's something for everyone. In addition to the great music, the festival also offers multiple stages for a variety of performances, allowing attendees to discover new acts as well as catch their favorite artists in a more intimate setting. Here's a quick rundown of the headliners before diving into the smaller UK acts on the lineup:

Headlining Acts:

Bonnie Raitt is a legendary blues singer and guitarist who has won 10 Grammy Awards throughout her career. Her latest album, "Dig in Deep," was released in 2016 and showcases her powerful vocals and soulful guitar playing. Fans can expect to hear hits like "Something to Talk About" and "I Can't Make You Love Me" at her Black Deer Festival performance.

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats are a soulful rock band known for their electrifying live performances. Their latest album, "Tearing at the Seams," was released in 2018 and features hits like "You Worry Me" and "A Little Honey." Fans can expect a high-energy show full of dancing and sing-alongs.

Bear's Den is a British folk band known for their heartfelt lyrics and intricate harmonies. Their latest album, "So that you might hear me," was released in 2019 and features hits like "Laurel Wreath" and "Crow." Fans can expect an intimate and emotional performance from this talented duo.

The Pretenders are a legendary rock band that has been making music for over 40 years. Led by frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, the band's latest album, "Hate for Sale," was released in 2020 and showcases their signature sound. Fans can expect to hear hits like "Brass in Pocket" and "Back on the Chain Gang" at their Black Deer Festival performance.

Steve Earle is a singer-songwriter known for his country and folk music. His latest album, "Ghosts of West Virginia," was released in 2020 and features songs inspired by the mining industry. Fans can expect to hear hits like "Copperhead Road" and "Guitar Town" at his Black Deer Festival performance.

Other Acts:

The Teskey Brothers are an Australian blues band known for their soulful sound. Their latest album, "Run Home Slow," was released in 2019 and features hits like "Hold Me" and "Pain and Misery."

Lucinda Williams is a legendary singer-songwriter known for her blend of country, folk, and rock music. She has won three Grammy Awards throughout her career and her latest album, "Good Souls Better Angels," was released in 2020.

Calexico is a band from Tucson, Arizona that blends various genres like country, jazz, and Latin music to create a unique sound. Their latest album, "Seasonal Shift," was released in 2020 and features holiday-themed songs.

Allison Russell is a singer-songwriter known for her blend of folk and soul music. She is also a member of the band Our Native Daughters. Her latest album, "Outside Child," was released in 2021 and features powerful songs about her personal experiences.

Drake White is a country artist known for his energetic live performances. His latest album, "Spark," was released in 2016 and features hits like "Livin' the Dream" and "Makin' Me Look Good Again."

Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real Lukas Nelson is the son of legendary musician Willie Nelson and the frontman of the band Promise of the Real. The band blends various genres like rock, country, and blues to create a unique sound. Their latest album, "A Few Stars Apart," was released in 2021.

Brandy Clark is an American country singer-songwriter known for her clever lyrics and heartfelt storytelling. She has released several albums, including "12 Stories" and "Your Life is a Record," and has won multiple Grammy Awards. Some of her most popular songs include "Stripes," "Hold My Hand," and "Who You Thought I Was."

Spotlight on Smaller Artists you might not know

While the headliners are certainly impressive, it's important not to overlook the smaller artists who are performing at the festival. These artists are often just as talented and passionate about their music, and they may even become your new favorite artist. Make sure to check out some of the smaller stages and discover some hidden gems.

Elles Bailey is a singer-songwriter based in Bristol, UK, who has a passion for blues and Americana music and possesses a soulful voice. Her debut album titled "Wildfire" received critical acclaim, and she has been captivating audiences with her powerful vocals and infectious energy ever since. As a British blues and roots artist, Elles Bailey has a genre-bending approach and has won the "Artist of the Year" award at the UK Blues Awards in 2019, 2020, and 2023, and is now a member of the UK Blues Hall of Fame. You wouldn't want to miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Elles Bailey's music.

Lauren Housley , with her soulful and bluesy voice. She's been gaining attention in the UK music scene for a few years now, and her latest album "Girl From The North" has been receiving rave reviews.

Demi Marriner is a Birmingham-based singer-songwriter whose music draws inspiration from the likes of Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. Her distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics have earned her a dedicated following and she's sure to win over even more fans at BlackDeer Festival 2023. Her debut album is due out in the middle of this year

Rob Heron & The Tea Pad are a UK-based band who mix western swing, country blues, and ragtime for a foot-stomping good time. Their live show is always a highlight.

Robert Vincent is an accomplished singer-songwriter hailing from Liverpool, UK, with a strong presence in the country music scene. His most recent album, "In This Town You're Owned," has garnered recognition for its candid lyrics and powerful emotional impact. Vincent's music is known for its blend of folk and Americana styles, and his debut album, "Life in Easy Steps," released in 2013, received high critical praise. He has since released multiple albums and earned various accolades, including the prestigious 2018 UK Americana Award for "UK Album of the Year."

The Wandering Hearts: This London-based trio is known for their stunning harmonies and catchy songs. Their debut album, "Wild Silence," was a critical and commercial success, and they're sure to be a hit at BlackDeer. formed in 2016. The band's music features rich harmonies and poignant lyrics, making them a favorite among fans of the genre. They have released several albums and EPs, including "Wild Silence" and "Rattle the Bones."

The Talent banq / cafe nero stage lowdown on some of the acts with videos attached

Annie Dressner: Annie Dressner is a singer-songwriter from New York who has made a name for herself in the UK folk scene. Her latest album, "Coffee at the Corner Bar," showcases her storytelling abilities and understated vocals.

Daisy Chute is a British folk singer-songwriter known for her delicate voice and introspective lyrics. Her music is often compared to that of Joni Mitchell and Laura Marling, with a modern twist. Daisy's unique blend of folk and indie-pop is sure to captivate audiences .

Belle Roscoe: With a sound that is both timeless and modern, this Australian sibling duo has been making waves in the UK's music scene since they relocated to London in 2011. Their music is a mix of folk, rock, and blues, and their live shows are known for their energy and passion.

Brooke Law: A British artist with a powerful voice and a gift for storytelling, Law's music is a mix of country and folk. Her lyrics are deeply personal and heartfelt, and her performances are known for their emotional intensity.

Gina Larner is a singer-songwriter from Norfolk who has been making music for over a decade. Her songs are rooted in the folk tradition, but she is also influenced by rock and roll and country music. Her voice is rich and powerful, and her lyrics are full of honesty and emotion.

Emilia Quinn, a Singer-Songwriter known for her electrifying fusion of Americana, Blues, and Rock, will be taking the stage at the BlackDeer Festival 2023. With her fearless approach to modern Roots music, Emilia has been praised for breaking the mold by effortlessly blending genres and infusing them with her unique spin. Her powerful and gritty vocals deliver a powerful storytelling experience that leaves audiences in awe of her musical skill. From hard-hitting anthems to heartfelt ballads, Emilia's songs are a testament to her astonishing honesty and unwavering passion, both on stage and in her recordings.

Isabel Inkcap is a singer-songwriter from Cornwall whose music is deeply influenced by the rugged beauty of the Cornish landscape. Her songs are a mix of folk and indie-rock, with her emotive vocals and intricate guitar playing at the forefront.

Jake Gauntlett is a singer-songwriter from Brighton whose music is influenced by artists like Ben Howard and Bon Iver. His songs are heartfelt and introspective, with his soulful voice and intricate guitar playing creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.

Laura Oakes is an English singer-songwriter who has made a name for herself with her country and Americana music. In 2018, she released has released singles such as "Better in Blue Jeans" and "Nashville Stole Your Girl." Her unique sound and meaningful lyrics have helped her gain recognition as one of the best up-and-coming country artists.

Since then, Laura Oakes has continued to produce music and released her latest ep, "How Big Is Your World?," in 2019. The album features chart-topping tracks like "Nashville Stole Your Girl" and "Welcome to the Family." With her impressive vocals and authentic songwriting, Laura Oakes has solidified her place as a talented country artist.

Morganway is a six-piece Americana, country, and rock band from East Anglia, UK. With powerful vocal harmonies and dynamic instrumentation, they're one of the most exciting live acts in the UK. Their self-titled debut album received critical acclaim, showcasing their range from energetic to soulful. Don't miss Morganway at Black Deer Festival 2023.

Danny Starr is a soulful singer-songwriter from the UK with a passion for blues and rock. His gritty vocals and virtuosic guitar playing have earned him critical acclaim in the UK and beyond. Danny's powerful live performances are not to be missed .

Eddy Smith & The 507 are a soulful blues band hailing from the UK. Their music is deeply rooted in the blues, but also incorporates elements of rock and folk. Eddy Smith's soulful vocals are backed by a tight band that knows how to get the crowd moving. If you're a fan of the blues, you won't want to miss Eddy Smith & The 507.

Ella Bleakley is a singer-songwriter from the UK with a passion for folk and indie-pop. Her music is characterized by delicate guitar work and soaring vocals that evoke a sense of yearning and longing. Ella's intimate live performances are not to be missed .

The Dunwells are a British indie-folk band known for their captivating melodies and heartfelt lyrics. With a sound that seamlessly blends acoustic and electric instruments, their music is both uplifting and introspective. Their dynamic live shows have earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim across the UK and beyond. Don't miss The Dunwells at the Festival for a moving and memorable performance.

Zoe Wren is a rising star in the UK folk scene. With her hauntingly beautiful voice and intricate guitar playing, she weaves together stories of love, loss, and hope. Zoe's songs draw on her experiences growing up in Kenya, as well as her travels around the world. Her debut album, "Reckless River," received critical acclaim, and she has since performed at festivals across the UK and Europe. Don't miss her captivating performance .

Vic Allen is a rising star in the UK country music scene. With a voice that blends vulnerability and strength, she crafts soulful and honest songs that resonate with audiences. Her debut EP "Between The Lines" was released to critical acclaim in 2018, followed by the singles "Blinding Lights" and "Enough". Vic's captivating live performances have earned her a loyal following and numerous festival appearances, she is also fresh from releasing her debut album some place id rather be catch her at Black Deer Festival 2023. Don't miss her heartfelt and dynamic performance.

Two Ways Home is a London-based Americana duo comprising of Isabella Mariee and Lewis Fowler. Known for their intricate harmonies and captivating live performances, they have been making waves in the UK country music scene since their debut EP in 2015. Their music is a blend of country, folk, and pop influences, with relatable lyrics and catchy melodies. TCatch their mesmerizing performance at the Festival .

Tips for Attending the Festival

Attending a music festival can be a lot of fun, but it can also be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Black Deer Festival experience:

Plan ahead: Check the schedule and map ahead of time so you can plan out which artists you want to see and where you need to be.

Dress comfortably: You'll be walking around and standing for long periods of time, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

Stay hydrated: It's important to stay hydrated throughout the day, so bring a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the water stations.

Try the food and drinks: There will be a variety of food and drink vendors at the festival, so don't be afraid to try something new.

Be respectful: Remember to be respectful of other festival-goers and the environment. Clean up after yourself and be mindful of noise levels during performances.

In conclusion, the Black Deer Festival in Eldridge Park is an incredible celebration of Americana and country music, featuring some of the biggest names in the industry as well as talented smaller artists. With these tips in mind, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience at the festival.

Tickets on sale now head to blackdeerfestival.com

few 2022 photo hight-lights below