BY STAFF REPORTER, TORONTO:
desiFEST, North America’s premier outdoor South Asian music concert is back for the 10th year. Since its inception, desiFEST has grown in both size and influence, attracting big name acts from across the country and overseas. The desiFEST stage has been host to fan favourites such as Master D, Apache Indian, Mickey Singh, Zack Knight, Raxstar, Lady Pista, Taz & Stereonation and many more. Now 10 years later, desi urban music lovers will unite once again as desiFEST showcases musical talents across four exciting days.
Presented by returning sponsor TD and hosted by founder Sathish Bala (also known as SatsB), this year’s concert will feature a star-studded line up of emerging and established musical artists and performers.
“What began as an idea born from my passion for South Asian music and its influence on our community has now become a movement and an iconic event for the city of Toronto. I am so grateful that with the support of our team, the fans and generous sponsors over the years we have been able to give back so much to our community and beyond. Not only has this been a fulfilling adventure from a personal perspective, but the fact that we have been able to provide a platform to launch so many artists while also providing entertainment to hundreds of thousands of fans over the years is so rewarding,” says desiFEST founder Sathish Bala.
Visitors will be treated to the taste of South Asian cuisine at the outdoor food market, shopping among local artisans in the marketplace, the Kids Zone and lots of giveaways throughout the day. desiFEST, in partnership with sponsor Harley Davidson will be giving away a 2016 Street 500 valued at $7,999 to one lucky desiFEST fan! This year, desiFEST will host three additional events to showcase the growing talent in the South Asian community.
Wednesday, May 25, 2016 from 10 PM – 2 AM: All female line up called ‘She Rocks’.
Thursday, May 26, 2016 from 10 PM – 2 AM: First musical showcase, ‘Kothu Bass’ featuring artists from the large Tamil community.
Friday, May 27, 2016 from 7 PM – 9 PM: Host a distinguished panel of industry experts with a discussion of all aspects of the South Asian music industry in North America.
Saturday, May 28, 2016 10 AM – 10 PM: desiFEST North America’s outdoor Premier festival at Yonge Dundas Square
“It is important for us to continue evolving the original concept of desiFEST. 10 years ago, there was a need to find and showcase desi urban artists and today there is an equally important need to help in nurturing, educating and building bridges for our community. That is a future I look forward to with desiFEST,” says Bala.
A lineup of artists at desiFEST can be found at: http://desifest.ca/2016-desifest-artistlineup/
The not for profit, grassroots organization, has been established to foster and grow the large South Asian Arts Community in Toronto and across Canada. desiFEST also helps to build local arts communities, inspire youth and support arts across Canada.