Guide to RBC’s Ottawa Bluesfest – July 10, 2015

It has been a solid and successful first few days of Bluesfest – headliners like Jack Ü and Jason Aldean drew in large crowds of enthusiastic music lovers. Day 3 is set to be equally as exciting, especially since there has been a growing anticipation for hip-hop’s biggest name headlining. But before Kanye West hits the Bell Stage, there are plenty more talented and fantastic artists to catch.

Rydell

6PM: Claridge Homes Stage

Ottawa pop punk group Rydell have had their high-energy music compared to the likes of Fall Out Boy, Four Year Strong, and a few others. They released their latest EP I Was Hoping This Could Save Me last January, and since then have been playing local shows and giving crowds a run for their money.

Chance the Rapper

7PM: Bell Stage

Chicago’s hip-hop scene is known for the high calibre talent (Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, Twista, Chief Keef…) and the list of notable rappers from the Windy City should also include Chance the Rapper. With a strong influence from soul, blues, and acid jazz, Chance’s style moves away from the norm and into uncharted territory, drawing the attention of hip-hop stars Childish Gambino and Action Bronson (to name a few).

Jungle By Night

8PM: Canadian Stage

Amsterdam’s Jungle By Night draw on multiple influences to create their sound. The eclectic range in music is only the beginning; pulling together soul, funk, blues, and hip-hop beats, the nine-piece ensemble will have the crowd moving.

The Souljazz Orchestra

830PM: Monster Energy Stage

Ottawa-based ensemble have been touring and performing together for 12 years. Known as “one of the tightest Canadian bands”, their tireless work ethic and rehearsal schedule provide audiences with a top-notch experience, bringing together soul, funk, and Afro-cuban dance styles.

Hawksley Workman

9PM: Canadian Stage

After releasing his latest album Old Cheetah last month, Canadian alternative musician Hawksley Workman has been touring with his side project The Mounties alongside promoting his solo work. Working as a producer, engineer, and of course, musician, his combination of talents and skills have lead him to become a prolific and iconic name in the Canadian music scene.

Plus – his live shows are brimming with energy and spontaneity and are a perfect recipe for a great time. (It wouldn’t hurt to check out his set before finding your way to Kanye West).

Kanye West

930PM: Bell Stage

Constantly the centre of attention and controversy, the Chicago-raised rapper has sculpted and marketed his unique style into a platform for uncensored and lavish creativity. After his career took off with the release of his debut The College Dropout in 2004, he never looked back and continued to hone his raw talent and producing abilities.