Today’s episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by SouthPark Community Partners, an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to lead SouthPark's advancement by driving economic vitality, creating memorable experiences, and ensuring an extraordinary quality of life.
Bob Durkin is the co-founder of Southern Entertainment, a Charlotte-based events and production company that’s put on over 500 live music events around the country. Durkin and his business partner, Rob Pedlow, got their start in Charlotte by owning bars in uptown like Dixie’s Tavern.
Durkin and his team are gearing up for the first Lovin’ Life Music Fest, a weekend-long, all-genre music festival in the First Ward neighborhood in uptown Charlotte from May 3 to May 5. It’s expected to draw up to 90,000 people. Over 40 artists will take one of the festival’s three stages, including big names like Post Malone, Stevie Nicks, Noah Kahan, DaBaby and the Beach Boys.
In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Durkin sits down with Ledger staff writer Lindsey Banks to talk about what it’s been like preparing for Lovin’ Life Music Fest and his hopes for Charlotte’s music scene. He also discusses:
How Southern Entertainment started and his transition from owning bars in Charlotte to event planning.
The origin of Lovin’ Life Music Fest and its significance for Charlotte.
Challenges and preparations involved in planning a large-scale music festival.
The economic impact of the festival on Charlotte.
The role of the festival in promoting Charlotte's music scene and providing exposure for local artists.
The inclusion of a local stage at the festival and its importance for showcasing regional talent.
Logistics and final preparations for the festival, including ticket sales and site setup.
Hopes for the festival's success and its potential to become an annual event, contributing positively to Charlotte's cultural landscape.
We hope you enjoy the conversation with Bob Durkin.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
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Behind the Lovin’ Life Music Fest, with Bob Durkin of Southern Entertainment