Burton booms with successful music festival
The first Sonic Boom Festival has been declared a huge success after music lit up Burton upon Trent with thousands descending on the town centre.
The festival, which took place on Saturday, 14 September, was developed by East Staffordshire Borough Council and Sonic Boom Music CIC with support from Arts Council England.
It featured a main stage with local and national touring artist, including Burton Band DECO and headlined by The K’s.
A series of Aftershock gigs were also hosted at venues across the town alongside a learning programme for young people interested in getting into the industry.
The independent festival followed the sell-out success of the Burton Music Collective’s celebration of live music in November 2023, as part of the council’s ambitions to rejuvenate Burton upon Trent’s new music scene, inspired by its rich music heritage.
Cllr Paul Walker, Cabinet Member for Tourism and Cultural Development, said: “It was tremendous to see thousands of residents and visitors enjoying the talented local and national artists on the main stage, right in the heart of Burton upon Tent.
“The festival exceed all our expectations and with the support people showed to Aftershock events, it’s sent a new lease of life through the Town.”
Sonic Boom CIC co-founder and chief executive, Andi Jepson, said: “It was a day Burton will remember for a long time. We’ve put our town back on the map for new music with a nationally significant festival.
“So many people attended, not only the Sonic Boom Festival but also the Aftershock events and people travelled from all over the UK to join in.
“Thanks to East Staffordshire Borough Council for their massive efforts and for supporting new music, and to all the local businesses who made the event possible. We showed we can match any festival for production quality and line up with an added friendly Burton welcome.
“A big thanks also to all the local artists and venues who kept the party going into the night. It really was an inclusive celebration of grass roots and independent music, with a completely eclectic mix of genres and styles, so there was something for everyone. We hope to do it all again next year!”
Following the festival, Sonic Boom CIC are asking residents and visitors for their feedback which can be give via the website or by filling in a form.
