The music of Joe Cocker and The Beatles will soon ring out over the Hutt Valley for the annual City of Song music festival.
The day-long concert, which kicks off today at 3pm, will feature a mix of acts including Hitchcock Railway and Peter Hall of Bitter End and Trixx fame.
Festival organiser Wayne Marsh says while there's a distinctive "old school" flavour to this year's lineup, there's likely to be something for everyone at the day-long affair.
Singer and songwriter Renee Maurice, who grew up in Upper Hutt and gained fame after winning 2013's New Zealand's Got Talent, will take the stage alongside Welsh artist Gareth Barker.
Other acts include Guerilla Panic, Itchycoo Park and Feet with Heat.
All proceeds from the gold coin entry will go to the Key to Life Trust. The trust, led by mental health advocate Mike King, works to increase awareness of suicide and mental health issues in New Zealand.
"We just want to support what they do as much as we possibly can, especially as they rely on donations," Marsh says.
Aside from the charity aspect, Marsh says the concert is a great way to showcase and celebrate the "Hutt Valley sound".
"Upper Hutt has a long tradition as a city of song with plenty of musicians, singers and songwriters working in and around the area."
Both Wayne Mason of The Fourmyula, and Peter Hall from Trixx and The Bitter End, are likely to draw decent crowds.
Carl Evensen, also ex-The Fourmyula, and Ray Ahipene Mercer, round out the list of music icons hitting the stage.
The concert will be "go or blow" regardless of the weather with Marsh and the other organisers happy to hedge their bets on the outdoor venue.
As well as the music, other entertainment will be provided on the day and families are encouraged to bring along a picnic basket for a summertime spread. Food and drink stalls will also be set up.
In an exciting musical event, the city of Upper Hutt is set to transport its audience back to the vibrant era of the 1960s. This special concert promises to revive the melodies and ambiance of the iconic decade, offering a unique musical experience that will immerse attendees in a time of emotional resonance and musical innovation. With a lineup of outstanding performers and a repertoire of remarkable tunes, this event guarantees to be a nostalgic journey, allowing people to relive cherished memories and revel in the distinctive sounds of the 1960s.
The Upper Hutt Concert - Bringing Back a Taste of the 1960s will take place at [venue] on [date/time]. Organized with the goal of not only showcasing the music but also capturing the spirit and lifestyle of the era, this event is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
Featuring a talented ensemble of cover bands and accomplished singers, attendees will embark on an exhilarating musical voyage. The iconic songs of legendary artists such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Supremes, and many others will come to life through lively and dynamic performances.
But the concert is not just about the music. The event will create a vibrant atmosphere that evokes the essence of the 1960s with period-inspired costumes, decorations, and concert settings. Attendees can immerse themselves in a retro ambiance, either reliving their youth or discovering and experiencing what made the 1960s so special.
The Upper Hutt Concert - Bringing Back a Taste of the 1960s promises to be a night to remember, where audiences will be transported to an era of cultural significance and timeless musical genius. Whether you're a dedicated fan of the 1960s or simply curious to explore its captivating allure, this concert is an opportunity to indulge in a nostalgic journey and celebrate the enduring legacy of an unforgettable decade.
Don't miss this extraordinary event that brings the sights and sounds of the 1960s back to life in Upper Hutt. Get ready to groove to the tunes that defined a generation and create new memories that resonate with the spirit of an unforgettable era.