Chaka Khan’s Meltdown has now been scheduled.
But don’t worry – Christine and The Queens had one before her, and Nile Rodgers – the legend behind Chic – had one the year before that.
We’re talking, of course, about the Southbank Centre‘s annual Meltdown Festival, curated each summer by a different musician or cultural figure. And this year, it’s the turn of the iconic 80s star to put together a funk-packed programme of live music, parties and more.
Jo Metson Scott
It’s all unfolding between 14th and 23rd June 2024 at the midcentury riverside venue on the South Bank. The ten-time Grammy winner will be kicking everything off with a dazzling live set drawing from her 50 year career, ticking off all the hits like Ain’t Nobody and I’m Every Woman. She’ll also be closing the festival with the first ever live performance of her 2004 album ClassiKhan, performing belters like Diamonds Are Forever and Hey Big Spender with the Nu Civilization Orchestra.
SIPHO – Jake Turney
And in the ten days between? She’s inviting in her own hand-picked line up of artists and collectives to perform, including Todrick Hall, acid jazz collective Incognito, one-to-watch vocalist SIPHO, and the trip hop duo Morcheeba. And aside from these established musicians, there’ll be a chance for young female Londoners with Black heritage to join and perform as part of the festival’s community choir, led by alt-soul singer-songwriter Tawiah.
And finally, as always, the two weekend slots will be devoted to free events, including a DJ set from Habibti Nation (who remix traditional Arabic music into dance anthems); a communal listening party into Chaka Khan’s deep cuts; yoga classes with live classical music; and outdoor parties with the likes of Sisters in Dub and London Queer Soundsystem to make the most of the summer weather.
Here’s hoping she has the power to schedule that in too.
NOTE: Chaka Khan’s Meltdown runs at the Southbank Centre from 14th-23rd June 2024. You can see the full line-up, and book tickets, HERE.
Chaka Khan’s Meltdown | Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX
Like live music? Check out the best jazz bars in London