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Waynestock Music Festival Marks 14 Years of Music in Knoxville

Crowd enjoying a live music performance at Waynestock Festival

News Summary

The Waynestock Music Festival in Knoxville celebrates its 14th year, honoring community connections and local musicians. This year’s event, titled ‘For the Love of Drew’, pays tribute to Drew Bledsoe and raises funds for RadioKCM. Attendees enjoyed a vibrant lineup of performances, reflecting the resilience and creativity of the local music scene. The festival continues to unite the community in memory of those lost, making it a cherished tradition in Knoxville.

Waynestock Music Festival Celebrates 14 Years of Community and Music in Knoxville

In the vibrant city of Knoxville, Tennessee, music lovers and community supporters came together to celebrate the 14th annual Waynestock Music Festival. Since its inception in 2011, this beloved event has not only paid homage to the local music scene but has also served as a beacon of hope and community spirit.

This year’s festival, charmingly titled ‘Waynestock: For the Love of Drew’, honors the memory of Drew, the son of Wayne Bledsoe, the festival’s namesake and a noted music journalist. Sadly, Wayne has faced unimaginable loss, having lost two sons, Drew and Rylan, with Rylan’s passing occurring during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Festival with Heart

Waynestock Festival has always operated with a big heart, raising funds each year for various local causes. This year’s focus is on supporting RadioKCM, a branch of Knoxville Community Media. The event has managed to muster up the largest single donation in Waynestock history, thanks to the meager $10 nightly admission fee that allowed attendees to enjoy great music while giving back.

Returning with Enthusiasm

Relix Variety Theater on North Central Street, a fitting venue for such a lively event. The festival kicked off with a touching tribute to Laith Keilany, a local musician who recently passed away, setting a warm and heartfelt tone for the celebration ahead.

Throughout the three-day festival, a fantastic lineup took the stage, featuring incredible performances from local talents like Jacc Moran, Kevin Abernathy, The Lonetones, Rica Chica, and the Thrift Store Cowboys. The first night was particularly special and featured a songwriter showcase, where both seasoned artists and burgeoning musicians shared their talents, showcasing the rich diversity and depth of Knoxville’s music scene.

A Community Celebration

Waynestock has gained splendid community support over the years, and this year was no exception. Attendees came in droves to enjoy the music, and overwhelmingly, they were reminded of the resilience and creativity embedded in the local music scene. It’s such a lovely sight to see everyone come together to remember those who have passed and celebrate the talent that thrives today.

As the festival drew to a close, an all-star tribute took place, allowing the community to pay respect to various musicians who left their mark over the past year. This heartfelt moment was a testament to how music has the power to connect us across generations and through our shared experiences.

Keep Your Ears Safe!

While the festival was lively, organizers made sure to remind guests to watch out for their ears, particularly for children, during the loud performances. Ear protection was encouraged, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the music without worry.

Looking Ahead

Waynestock typically happens during the last weekend of January, and excitement is already building for next year’s event set for January 2026. As for ticketing, attendees can grab tickets at the door for cash only and have the chance to participate in delightful raffle opportunities, adding an extra layer of fun to the experience!

The Waynestock Music Festival has become a cherished tradition in Knoxville and demonstrates the incredible bond between music, community, and remembrance. It’s a celebration that brings people together, ensuring that the spirit of music will live on for years to come.