Istanbul’s nine most anticipated upcoming concerts and festivals
ISTANBUL
So far this summer, thousands of Istanbulites have been treated to blockbuster performances from David Guetta, Justin Timberlake, Bob Dylan, and Metallica. It is now almost mid-season, but for live music fans in the city there is still a lot to look forward to, with Istanbul preparing to host many more world-renowned artists and bands in the coming months. Let’s take a look at nine must-see upcoming live shows:
Neil Young & Crazy Horse, July 15
Legendary rocker Neil Young will perform at Küçükçiftlik Park on July 15 as part of his tour with Crazy Horse. Young is considered one of the greatest artists and guitarists of all time, and has twice been inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Young has also surprised his fans by dabbling in a film directing, as well as being a passionate environmental advocate.
Turkcell Yıldızlı Geceler (Starry Nights), Aug. 1-31
Turkcell is celebrating its 20th year with Yıldızlı Geceler. The festival, which will kick off on Aug. 1 with Ajda Pekkan, is going to lighten up the Harbiye Open Air Theater throughout the month of August. Well known foreign musicians such as Emma Shapplin, Monica Molina, Yasmin Levy, George Dalaras, Iyeoka and many other Turkish pop musicians will perform during the month-long festival.
Rock Off Festival, Aug. 2-4
Rock Off Festival will host a large number of foreign and local metal bands, including Megadeath, Amon Amarch and H.I.M. The festival will not only comprise of live performances, but is also hosting a workshop with Roger Waters’s guitarist Dave Kilminster and Q&A sessions with members of the bands scheduled to perform. The environmental TEMA Foundation is also set to cooperate with the organizers to plant one tree per each festival-goer.
Isle of Dreams Festival, Aug. 5-7
Electronic music is becoming increasingly popular in Istanbul, and this year the Isle of Dreams Festival, which is inspired by the music and party scene of Ibiza, is visiting Istanbul’s Sarıyer Life Park on Aug. 5-7. The open-air festival will host a selection of the world’s most famous DJs such as Avicii, Afrojack, Axwell, Ingrosso and Paul Oakenfold. Visitors can either use the festival camping facilities or bring their own tents.
Life in Color Festival, Aug. 9
The “World’s Largest Paint Party” is coming to Istanbul’s Küçükçiftlik Park on Aug. 9. First held in the U.S. state of Florida in 2006, the event says that it symbolizes freedom and encourages its participants to “unleash.” The Unleash tour will bring together many successful DJs and it promises to be a day filled with upbeat dance music and beautiful colors.
Lady Gaga, Sept. 16
She has performed to millions of people worldwide, and now she’s here. Lady Gaga will be arriving as part of her “artRAVE: the ARTPOP Ball” at İTU Stadium on Sept. 16. With her unique and artsy live shows, Lady Gaga is widely accepted as one of world’s top live performers. Her albums have been certified platinum all over the world, and her latest album ARTPOP debuted on the Billboard Charts at No. 1. Her Istanbul concert is being organized by Pozitif Live.
Demi Lovato, Nov. 16
The devotion of American pop-sensation Demi Lovato’s large fanbase, who call themselves “Lovatics,” is undeniable, and Lovato was rewarded at this year’s People’s Choice Awards with the “Favorite Female Artist” and “Favorite Fan Following” awards. Lovato is scheduled to perform at the Ülker Sports Arena on Nov. 16. After struggling with eating disorders and going to rehab, Lovato co-wrote and released her most successful and intimate album to date, “Demi,” last year. Songs from “Demi” and other hits are sure to feature in her Istanbul performance.
