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Older readers probably remember Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Sweet Home Alabama – well, now there’s Six60’s Sweet Home Aotearoa.
But it’s not a song. This is a brand-new country and roots music festival curated by the Kiwi icons that kicks off on Saturday, January 3 at Matakana Country Park, a 50-acre estate which should provide the perfect setting.
Six60 were inspired to launch the event after working on their fifth studio album in Nashville where “it felt so similar to home”.
Organisers say the festival aims to deliver “a bit of Nashville under the Aotearoa sun, blending the soul of Southern country and roots music with Kiwi energy”.
“The authentic nature, storytelling and power to bring people together that roots and country music have was so evident (in Nashville). As a band, Six60 knew it was time for New Zealand to have its first country and roots festival – and Sweet Home Aotearoa was born.”
The line-up boasts a mix of international and NZ acts including Yelawolf, Tash Sultana (DJ set), Tami Neilson, Hori Shaw, Brad Cox, South Summit, Rachael Fahim, TheWesternGuide and Rosie Teese.
And, of course, the main drawcard Six60 who are the country’s biggest act presently, selling out stadiums, topping charts with their blend of pop, rock, soul and reggae, and now headlining their own festival.
The local heroes even had Metallica cover one of their songs recently when the metal giants played at Eden Park in November.
The first act kicks off the day at 1.10pm, with gates opening at 1pm so attendees can settle in, grab some food and drink from the local vendors onsite and soak in the early afternoon vibes.
If you’re keen on live music in a laid-back setting, especially country and roots, Six60’s Sweet Home Aotearoa is shaping up to be a must-see on the summer calendar.
Tickets were still available at the time of going to print: https://www.ticketmaster.co.nz/event/2400634FBC74346D
For more info visit: https://www.sweethome.co.nz/
