The Burnaby Blues + Roots festival returns to Deer Lake Park on August 10, with civil rights icon and GRAMMY Award-winner, Mavis Staples set to headline the free festival.
This year’s lineup will also feature performances by Calexico, The Suffers, Crystal Shawanda, and from the First Up with RBCXMusic program, the della kit.
Along with incredible live music, attendees will see the return of signature attractions and amenities including food trucks, a beer garden, community booths and more. The festival kicks off at 4 pm, with music and performances flowing until 10 pm. Mark your calendars and bring your friends to take in Burnaby’s signature summer festival.
“We’re thrilled to be welcoming another legendary performer, Mavis Staples, to the Burnaby Blues + Roots stage for 2024, along with so many other talented musicians,” said Mayor Mike Hurley. “And we’re proud to once again be offering free admission, providing everyone with the opportunity to see an incredible festival in one of the most beautiful concert venues in B.C.”
The Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival acknowledges its many sponsors and partners including, RBC, Miss604, Delta Hotel & Convention Centre Burnaby, and The Province of British Columbia.
About Mavis Staples
Mavis Staples is an iconic American singer and civil rights activist renowned for her rich, soulful voice and powerful presence. Born on July 10, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, she rose to fame as a member of The Staples Singers, a family gospel group led by her father, "Pops" Staples. The group became a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement, blending gospel, soul and R&B. Staples’ solo career has been equally impactful, earning Grammy Awards and critical acclaim for her work. Known for hits like "I'll Take You There," she continues to inspire with her music and commitment to social justice.
About Calexico
Calexico is an eclectic indie rock band formed in 1996 by Joey Burns and John Convertino in Tucson, Arizona. Renowned for their genre-blending sound, they weave together elements of Americana, Latin, and jazz, producing a distinctive blend often labeled as “desert noir.” The band’s evocative music features mariachi horns, twangy guitars and cinematic atmospheres. Albums like Feast of Wire and Edge of the Sun have garnered critical acclaim, with songs that capture the essence of the American Southwest. Known for their rich storytelling and diverse instrumentation, Calexico continues to innovate and captivate audiences worldwide.
About The Suffers
The Suffers are a dynamic Gulf Coast Soul band hailing from Houston, Texas, founded in 2011 by lead vocalist Kam Franklin and bassist Adam Castaneda. Combining elements of classic soul, rock and Caribbean rhythms, their vibrant sound is both nostalgic and fresh. Known for energetic live performances, The Suffers have gained a devoted following with albums like The Suffers (2016) and Everything Here (2018). Their music reflects a rich cultural tapestry and social consciousness, earning them accolades and performances on major stages like The Late Show with David Letterman. The Suffers continue to redefine contemporary soul with their unique, heartfelt style.
About Crystal Shawanda
Crystal Shawanda is a celebrated Canadian singer-songwriter known for her powerful blend of blues, country, and rock. Born in Wiikwemkoong First Nation on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, in 1983, she launched her career in Nashville, gaining recognition with her debut album, Dawn of a New Day (2008), which became the highest-charting album by a Canadian First Nations artist. Shawanda's evocative voice and storytelling have earned her accolades, including a Juno Award for Blues Album of the Year for Church House Blues (2021). Her music reflects her Indigenous heritage and personal journey, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
About the della kit
The della kit is a Vancouver-based singer and songwriter whose music fuses jazz, soul, and R&B. Known for her ethereal voice and reflective lyrics, she debuted with moonbeams & frequencies in 2023. Blending vintage and modern influences, the della kit crafts emotive, atmospheric sounds that captivate listeners.
About Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival
Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival has been a highlight of the outdoor concert season since 2000 and celebrates the influence of roots and blues music in a unique venue. The festival encourages cultural awareness of musical talent and provides a platform for local, Canadian and international artists and ensuring that female and BIPOC artists are represented. The Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival is presented by the City of Burnaby, in association with Live Nation.
Learn more: Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival
Images: High resolution promotional images