Internationally-acclaimed singer Julie Fowlis will return to her native Hebrides to star at the islands’ biggest music festival next year.
The North Uist performer, who has graced stages around the globe, from village halls in the Highlands to theatres in Paris and Vienna, London and New York, will be joined by her band in the main arena at the 21st Hebridean Celtic Festival next summer.
HebCelt confirmed yesterday the line-up for the 2016 event will alsinclude American band Hayseed Dixie, famed for their ‘Rockgrass’ cover versions of hard rock songs, as well as multi-instrumentalist, producer and composer John McCusker and his band during his 25th anniversary tour.
The festival will also feature Orkney four-piece Fara and folk trio Talisk, who were both nominated in the Up and Coming Artist of the Year category in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards last weekend.
HebCelt will run from 13-16 July in Stornoway and will be headlined by Scottish rock legends Runrig who will top the bill on the closing night.
Julie Fowlis, one of the first inductees to the HebCelt Hall of Fame and an ambassador for the event, will perform on the Friday.
Julie said: “Coming from the Outer Hebrides I have always been excited about playing at HebCelt. It is a highlight of the year for me and I am particularly looking forward to returning there for the 21st festival.”
Hayseed Dixie, who hail from the Appalachian Mountains, combine guitar, fiddle, mandolin and banjo in a unique fusion of bluegrass and rock. They made their debut in 2001 and since then have played over 1,100 live dates in 31 different countries. They have also released 15 albums in that time, consisting of both original material and reinterpretations, selling a combined total of over 500,000 copies.
Festival director Caroline Maclennan added: “We are delighted to welcome Julie Fowlis back to HebCelt. She grew up with the festival and has played a major role in its success and growth.
“As an artist of international standing now she is an inspiration to singers and musicians who play in the Gaelic or traditional genres.
“We are also thrilled with the other bands we are announcing today. Hayseed Dixie are a superb live act with a combination of great musicianship and fun cover version that will be a big hit with our audience.’