We all know about the biggies – Woodstock, Woodstock 2, Coachella, Burning Man, and the latest star to grace the summer music festival scene, Bonnaroo. But, Bonnaroo hasn’t always been the powerhouse that it has grown into over the past couple of years. Last year, it boasted the last concert that Nine Inch Nails claimed it would ever perform. Go Manchester, Tennessee! But, where did Bonnaroo come from?
In the tradition of summer music fests, Bonnaroo’s mission was to throw a three-day festival of music, art and focused mostly on hiring jam bands for its acts to lure lots of sweaty, dirty hippies. Founded in 2002, Bonnaroo claimed a parcel of land in obscure Manchester, TN and has returned every year ever since. The first year’s line up included acts such as Blackalicious, Ween, Widespread Panic, and Les Claypool, while screening movies nightly in one of the tents such as The Blues Brothers and U2: Rattle and Hum.
Since then it has grown to include a comedy stage, several hundred vendors, and bars and clubs such as the Silent Disco. Powerhouse bands and acts gracing the stage this year include Dave Matthews, Conan O’Brian, Jay Z, Kings of Leon, Steve Martin, Stevie Wonder, The Flaming Lips, Tori Amos and Tenacious D. My how our little festival has grown!!
Bonnaroo has worked hard to responsibly accommodate the exponential growth over the past few years, by adding green concepts to its operations, as well as a recycling clean up program.
The festival promises good, hot and sweaty times for anyone wanting a three-day, musically accompanied adventure in the heart of Tennessee. There are tents available for rental, or you can bring your own and find your own spot. Prepare to get dirty, and get down to some of the finest acts on the planet. And get your camera phones ready – you are sure to spot some of the hottest celebrities in attendance such as Drew Barrymore, Kate Hudson, and the Boss Bruce Springsteen.
If you’re lucky enough to get a ticket this year, have fun and bring cash. Bonnaroo 2010 is happening June 10-13th.