What do you get when you combine an Indian-American comedian, a fifty-year old psychedelic rock band, a Dubstep king, a Jewish rapper from Pittsburg, dozens of other eclectic performers and muddy, sweaty, merry concert-goers? Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival 2012.
For those of you who haven’t the slightest idea of this outrageous and fun event, you’re not alone.
“Bonna-what? A music festival?” questioned Senior Calvin Lee. Brace yourselves; Bonnaroo presents a striking similarity to notorious music festivals like Woodstock.
Bonnaroo is an annual four-day music festival held on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee. Multiple stages on the premises provide gateways for different genres of music including indie rock, electronic, hip-hop, jazz, reggae and alternative music. Rolling Stone magazine even dubbed it “One of the 50 moments that changed rock & roll.”
Because of the long trek from Miami to Manchester, most students that attend this festival are upperclassmen preparing for the independence of college life.
“I’m going to Bonnaroo for both the music and the entire experience. I’ll probably sleep in a tent and pitch it up with friends. I doubt there will even be open showers,” said Senior Joshua Ascherman. “I want to see bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead – The Beach Boys are even performing one of their last shows for their final world tour there!”
Even seniors who have not planned to attend Bonnaroo in 2012 find interest in the festival and its carefree style.
“I would probably consider attending in the future!” said Senior Vivi Warman.
Though the festival does face some bandwagon criticisms, many upperclassmen still feel some inclination towards learning more about the festival.
“For me, it’s a 50-50. I think I would consider going to Bonnaroo even though I feel like half of the people there only attend to ‘be cool’,” said Senior Katrina Carillo.
While the general consensus on Bonnaroo seems quite positive, even a few seniors find the event a bit unsavory.
“Would I attend [Bonnaroo] now or in the future? Of course not! I feel like the festival is a fad to most people – plus, the music is not to my particular liking,” said Senior Deborah Lin.
Depending on your sense of chance and adventure, Bonnaroo could either be a blessing or a curse.
