Guitar legend at star at Burnley Blues Festival

LEGENDARY American blues guitarist Jimmie Vaughan is set to headline this year’s Burnley International Rock and Blues Festival.

Vaughan, who toured alongside blues greats Eric Clapton and BB King, will perform his only UK gig in the town when the three-day festival returns in May.

The Fabulous Thunderbirds founder will be joined more than 100 different artists including Lou Ann Barton, Hokie Joint, The Revolutionaires and Glenn Tilbrook from Squeeze as Burnley goes blues crazy.

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Hundreds of music fans are expected to flock to the festival as the town takes on a “Little America” feel with 12 themed stages, live music in the town centre and a huge Mardi Gras parade.

Burnley Mechanics will host the main stage acts and Fringe Festival venues including The Talbot, The Bridge and The Artisan Cafe will become the Austin, Chicago and New York stages with live events from May 4th until May 6th.

New Blues Cruise trips will even sail twice a day from Reedley Marina to the Inn on the Wharf and back with live music and a bar.

Steve Reid, who organised the event with Doc Redeye Events and AMS Neve, promised the festival would be “huge.”

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Steve said: “This will be the biggest music event Burnley has ever seen. It will create a carnival atmosphere and truly bring the whole town out, from families to music lovers.

“Jimmie Vaughan is a massive name and this will be his only tour date in the UK. There will be more than 100 artists and bands playing over the three days.

“We have got great partners on board and there is room for more. This year it is going to be the big one.”

Coun. Jeff Sumner, Burnley Council’s Executive Member for Leisure and Culture, said: “The line-up of top class artists and activities will attract both local residents and visitors from across the country. The town will be buzzing over the whole weekend and I am sure everyone who comes will have a brilliant time.

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“We are keen that Burnley is seen as a centre for culture and this year’s festival helps to further improve the profile of the town.”

Tickets go on sale for the main stage this weekend with a limited number of discounted three-day tickets available from the Mechanics Box Office.

To be involved as a partner or fringe member contact Steve at [email protected] For tickets or main stage enquiries see the Mechanics website, call the box office 01282 664400 or www.burnleyrockandblues.com.

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