The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 promises to be a spectacular event with a star-studded lineup featuring renowned international and Indian artists. Set to take place on November 15 and 16 at the RBDSA Sports Complex in Shillong, Meghalaya, this year’s festival will be headlined by none other than Senegalese-American pop sensation Akon, Maizie Williams from the iconic pop group Boney M, and Hong Kong’s dynamic rapper-singer Lucas.
Akon, globally celebrated for his chart-topping hits such as “Smack That” and “Lonely,” is set to mesmerize the Indian audience once again. This performance marks his return to India for the first time since his performance at the grand wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant earlier in the year. With a career spanning over two decades and a discography filled with platinum hits, Akon’s presence is set to be a major crowd-puller for the festival.
Adding a touch of nostalgia and classic disco vibes, Maizie Williams from Boney M will grace the stage. The performance is part of Boney M’s farewell world tour, promising timeless tunes and a memorable trip down memory lane for fans of all ages. Known for hits such as “Rasputin,” “Daddy Cool,” and “Ma Baker,” Boney M’s energetic and entertaining set is anticipated to be one of the festival highlights.
Not to be outdone, Lucas, who was formerly a member of the popular K-pop groups NCT and WayV, will make his debut performance in India at the festival. With the recent release of his single album “Renegade,” Lucas has continued to rise in popularity, especially among K-pop enthusiasts. His blend of rap and singing, combined with his charismatic stage presence, promises to be a captivating experience for festival-goers.
In addition to the headlining acts, the lineup includes the electrifying performances of EDM sensation R3HAB, who has dominated the electronic dance music scene with his high-energy tracks and remixes. The festival will also feature tribute acts for legendary bands Queen and Korn, bringing classic rock and nu-metal vibes to the stage.
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Representing the diversity and talent within India’s music scene, pop artists Jasleen Royal, known for her unique voice and hit songs in Bollywood, and Kanika Kapoor, famed for her peppy and catchy numbers, will perform as well. Their presence ensures a rich blend of contemporary Indian music for the audience.
Adding a local flavor to the festival, Shillong’s very own Jessie Lyngdoh and the rock band The Great Society will perform, embodying the region’s vibrant music culture. The lineup is further enriched by the reggae band Dewdrops and hip-hop artist Reble, showcasing a variety of genres and styles that are sure to cater to a wide array of musical tastes.
For those planning to attend, tickets for the festival are now available for purchase. Enthusiasts can opt for season passes priced at ₹3,299, while those seeking a more exclusive experience can avail themselves of VIP tickets starting at ₹8,999. With such a diverse and exciting roster of performers, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 is poised to be an unforgettable musical extravaganza.
The event is not just about music; it’s also a celebration of the beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom in Shillong around this time of the year, adding a picturesque beauty to the festive environment. The festival aims to provide not just entertainment but also an experience that merges the serenity of nature with the vibrancy of music and culture.
Organizers have been meticulously planning to ensure that the 2024 edition of the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival sets a new standard for musical festivals in India. The mixing of local and international talents aims to highlight Shillong’s role as a unique cultural hub.
Music enthusiasts and fans are eagerly awaiting the festival dates, as they prepare to witness a convergence of global music icons and local talents in the beautiful setting of Shillong. With the countdown already begun, it’s only a matter of time before the RBDSA Sports Complex comes alive with the sounds and sights of this highly anticipated event.