RBC Bluesfest – July 13, 2016
Photo by Kamara Morozuk
It was country night at RBC Bluesfest last night, and even though there were no official signs dictating so, festival goers were donned with cowboy hats, plaid, and cowboy boots, and with the sun shining above everyone, farmer’s tans were setting in as well. With country music all-star Brad Paisley hitting the main stage as the night’s headliner, it was an exciting summer’s night full of country twang and kicking guitar licks.
But before the country music took over, there was plenty of talent to be shared around the festival including Canadian up-and-coming pop sensation Alessia Cara and Orlando producer XXYYXX, offering a wide range of stellar performances.
Ottawa photographer Kamara Morozuk was there to capture all the action and excitement from Day 5 of the festival, and you can follow her on Instagram for more updates and content from the shows. As well, for more information on the festival head to the official Bluesfest website.
Alessia Cara
Sporting a blank tank, comfy plaid PJ bottoms, and an old high school sweater wrapped around her waist, Brampton native Alessia Cara needed nothing more than her raw talent to dazzle the crowd. Starting her career on YouTube covering pop songs, Cara has come so far, recently opening for Coldplay during their European tour. Now back in Canada, Cara was excited to be in Ottawa with such an ecstatic crowd showing their support as she played through her biggest hits.
As a musician who found her big break because of her true talent, Cara’s voice stole the show, as the singer with a short stature showcased her booming voice and enchanting personality. Not only does the 20 year old singer-songwriter have a voice well past her years, but a sense of humbleness and maturity as well, sharing her understanding of life’s ups and downs before performing the ballad “River of Tears” and professing her support for young girls who struggle with unattainable beauty standards, standing up as a strong role model for her young female fans everywhere. Charming, gifted, and classy, Alessia Cara is en route to becoming household name – and deservingly so.
Brad Paisley
For his Life Amplified Tour, Brad Paisley started his show off with a dramatic visual show, as an amp hurdled towards Earth, eventually landing in “OTTOWA PRESENT DAY”. But fortunately the audience quickly forgave Paisley and his video team for the minor slip up, as he cruised into his energetic brand of country rock. Performing favourites from across his lengthy discography, including a virtual duet with Demi Lovato for his latest single “Without A Fight”, his live performance was full of exciting surprises.
Ottawa Senators’ captain Erik Karlsson made a special appearance half way through the show, with a roaring welcome from the home crowd. But not to be outdone, two fans stole the show after choosing a Brad Paisley concert as the perfect place to get engaged. After the bride-to-be said yes, cheers and applause congratulated he newly engaged couple – a moment they will never forget.
Half Moon Run
While all the country music fans were at the main stage catching Braad Paisley, the rest of the festival seemed to be piled in at the Black Sheep Stage. With a full crowd going all the way back to the top of the hill, Half Moon Run drew a favourable sized fan base, mesmerizing the audience with their eclectic style of indie folk rock. Flashing lights, pounding percussion, and the rich vocals of lead singer Devon Portielje combined together for a perfect recipe for a fantastic live performance.
Check out the bonus galleries from Wednesday’s performances below:
