Bonnaroo '12

Let me begin with a forewarning that any attempts I make to fully explain my experience at Bonnaroo this past weekend will probably fall short of the actual events that transpired. It was undoubtedly the single-most interesting affair I have attended in Tennessee to date for multiple reasons, the main factor being that I was one of 90,000 people in attendance. On a farm. In the middle of Nowheresville Manchester, Tennessee.

I prepared myself mentally for the port-a-potties, dirt under your fingernails, and body odor. I was instructed by my camping group to abstain from entertaining negative thoughts of any kind at the prospect of muggy heat and long days. I was not, however, prepped for the all the decisions I would have to make allocating different amounts of time to certain shows. I loved the line-up so much that I wanted to see nearly every show, which was unfortunately impossible.

Among many amazing artists, I completely adored Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings. They were given a crap spot at 2:00 on Friday afternoon, but the band was so true to their reputation as funky and groovy. This woman's energy at fifty six was so sassy and I loved the honesty in her gut-wrenching voice. Another artist that stood out to me was Charles Bradley and His Extraordinaires. Also given a garbage spot at 1:00 on Saturday afternoon, the sixty-four year old 'Screaming Eagle of Soul' rocked the audience with his signature soul scream that was amazingly powerful and awe-inspiring. He humbly admitted to not having his best performance at the end of the set and then proceeded to graciously hug as many people in the crowd as he was able. Both of these soul artists rejuvenated and inspired me immensely.

Other artists who caught my fancy were Ben Howard, Kathleen Edwards, Feist, Alice Cooper, Ben Folds Five, Battles and so many more. Bon Iver's performance on Sunday was instrumentally brilliant and I danced like a crazy to the Beach Boys, who still have it, just in case you were wondering. I am most proud of surviving my first (and last) Skrillex concert, of which I will not go into fine detail so as to spare those who may be offended. (Let me just say that the performance began with a Chinese lantern burning in a tree overhead while blood curdling screams emitted from a girl whose boyfriend had just passed out on the people behind him.)

I had a lovely time. It was the filthiest I have ever been in my entire life, but entirely worth it for the music.