The first Ottawa Bluesfest took place in 1994 at Major’s Hill Park. It was headlined by Clarence Clemons, also known as The Big Man, a famous American saxophonist. Clemons’s performance drew about 5,000 spectators. Only two years later the attendance increased fivefold: 25,000 people attended the 1996 festival to see musicians such as Los Lobos, Robert Cray, and others.
Due to the increasing number of attendees, the festival has changed several venues over the years to provide more space for the audience and performers. Since 1999, it has been held at LeBreton Place, a neighborhood in central Ottawa. Originally a residential area, it is undergoing redevelopment, and parts of it are used for outdoor events. Today Ottawa’s blues festival attracts approximately 300,000 attendees every year over 9–12 days. Concerts take place on several stages throughout the festival grounds.
Although blues has always been and will remain the main focus of the Ottawa Bluesfest, the organizers invite many mainstream artists that work in other genres, such as Lady Gaga, Lady Antebellum, Kanye West, Red Hot Chili Peppers, etc. Alongside world-class performers from Canada and abroad, the festival showcases up-and-coming local musicians because one of its goals is to discover and support new talent, providing a platform for young performers.
The Ottawa Bluesfest encompasses a variety of contemporary music genres and styles including blues, rock, pop, EDM (electronic dance music), indie rock, country, jazz, alternative rock, soul, funk, hip hop, world music, and more. Over the years, it has become one of the largest music festivals in North America. Alongside concerts, it offers games, carnival attractions, autograph sessions with the artists, educational programs, and more.
Photo: ottawabluesfest.ca
