Hot cross ... Megan Washington joins dozens of musicians performing in Kings Cross during ARIA Week showcase. Picture: Nicole Cleary. Source: News Corp Australia
STRUGGLING Kings Cross venues will get a boost from Australian musicians with a series of gigs leading up to the ARIA Awards next month.
Now in its third year, the ARIA Week gigs will spotlight dozens of up and coming artists and previous award winners from Megan Washington and Hilltop Hoods to KLP and Gang Of Youths.
ARIA have also announced that former U2 manager Paul McGuinness, who guided their career for three decades from Irish pubs to the world’s stadiums, will be the keynote speaker at their Masterclass.
Kings Cross was Sydney’s band breeding ground through the 1970s and 80s, nurturing the careers of everyone from Billy Thorpe to Divinyls.
Party starters ... The Potbelleez will be one of the free acts performing in Kings Cross on November 23. Picture: Supplied. Source: Supplied
But nightclubs and DJs took over the venues in recent decades.
In an attempt to get live music back into the entertainment precinct, the Kings Cross Ignite: Heat The Street initiative will see 40 acts play for free in 10 venues on November 23.
The X Factor finalist Reigan Derry, respected hip hop producer M-Phazes, jazz find Emma Birdsall, electronic pop stars The Potbelleez and many more artists will perform at a host of rooms including Sugarmill, Kit and Kaboodle, The Bourbon and World from 2pm to 6pm.
Talent scout ... New artist KLP will be showcased during ARIA Week celebrations. Picture: Supplied. Source: Supplied
The recently opened The X Studio below the famed Coca-Cola sign will also host a showcase starring Washington, Broods and new signing Just A Gent on November 21 and the Red Bull Academy music event on November 25.
Other venues hosting gigs to spotlight emerging talent during ARIA Week include the Oxford Art Factory, Upstairs Beresford, Vic On The Park, the Hi-Fi Sydney, Bald Faced Stag and The Island.
Song bird ... Former The Voice finalist Emma Birdsall will stake her claim for stardom during ARIA Week gigs. Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied
Music industry heavyweights are expected to turn out in force for the Paul McGuinness Q & A at the invite only masterclass the day before the ARIA Awards kick off on November 26.
For the full line-up of gigs, ariaawards.com.au
