PRESS RELEASE
26 September 2013
Australian Soul Queen to Headline Queenstown International Jazz and Blues Festival
The sultry melodic voice of Australian Renee Geyer has been secured as the headline act for the upcoming Queenstown
International Jazz & Blues Festival, taking place in Queenstown for four days over Labour Weekend, 24-27 October.
Musician Geyer has had a number of singles and soul inspired jazz albums released during the past year on both sides of
the Tasman. Regarded as the ‘Down-under Queen of Soul’ by way of her iconic hits, 'Shaky Ground', 'It Only Happens' and
'Say You Love Me', Geyer and her four-piece band will perform a one night only performance with legendary blues
guitarist Kiwi Billy TK Jnr and UK blues maestro Paul Ubana Jones.
The Festival features over 70 musicians from the USA, Australia and New Zealand in a programme that has the best of
jazz, blues, soul and funk over the four day event. Artists include local blues and jazz musicians, Paul Ubana Jones,
blues queen Mahia Blackmore, King Leo Blues band, The Federation and jazz divas Lorraine Haville, Margaret Umbers and
Cat Tunks and Black Sand Diva.
Festival director Billy Te Kahika comments, 'We have put a lot of effort into programming and selecting the notable
artists and the musicians. Having the picturesque Queenstown as the backdrop with close proximity of venues and
affordable ticketed events, means an incredible weekend for people who love great music'. The hub of the festival will
be located at Steamer Wharf with venues all around the town centre in a programme that will have free events, ticketed
events and a special gala event.
The first Queenstown International Jazz & Blues Festival replaces the formerly known Queenstown Jazz Festival and is proudly presented by Steamer Wharf, Murdoch
James Estate Wines, The Breeze and Choice TV.
More exciting announcements will be made over the coming weeks.