With rock concerts being forced to go digital during the COVID-19 pandemic, a Windsor festival will be beaming a musical event into local homes.
Bluesfest Windsor has started YUNITY, a live music initiative spanning a variety of music genres, to kick off its new Front Porch Party Series. The new music series follows the trend of international artists performing concerts from empty venues, or their own homes, on television, radio, and online platforms.
The first show, set to be streamed live Saturday evening starting at 8 p.m., will support two topical causes. The first will show continued support with the essential workers on the front lines of the pandemic, in the fields of health care, law enforcement, and other key areas. The second cause is to aid the victims of the mass shooting in Nova Scotia.
Rob Petroni, president of Bluesfest Windsor, said the current public health situation has forced the festival to adapt, and it wanted to use the opportunity to showcase music acts for two key causes.
"Ironically, the current crisis we are living in has inspired a re-imagining and new vision for a music festival that has gained a sizeable fan base now heading into its seventh year," said Petroni. "YUNITY will create a new dimension of entertainment for the region's award-winning festival, enabling us to broaden our diversity both in music and in people. More importantly, it will enhance our partnership with the city of Windsor, while supporting Mayor Drew Dilkens' and city council's commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community."
The first YUNITY installment features Colin MacDonald of The Trews, a Nova Scotia-based hard rock band. Music fans are encouraged to join the live YouTube stream before 8 p.m. Saturday, and even hold their own watch parties.
Bluesfest Windsor is tentatively scheduled for July 10 through July 19 at Riverfront Festival Plaza, pending any regulations in place in regards to COVID-19. For the complete lineup of scheduled 2020 acts, visit Bluesfest's official website.
