Meltdown Festival

Nile Rodgers’ Meltdown | Southbank Centre

We’re here to talk about Nile Rodgers’ Meltdown.

But there’s no need to freak out – Robert Smith, lead singer of The Cure, had one before him, and singer/activist MIA 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, Nile Rodgers – the legend behind Chic – has put together a funk-packed programme of live music, parties and more.

It all takes place this August at the 50s riverside venue. The first weekend starts with a bang, with a recreation of Studio 54 featuring original DJs from the club, including Nicky Siano who played at Bianca Jagger’s birthday party (the one with the horse). Also on the roster is a day of disco from the epic Some Voices choir, complete with an outdoor dancefloor, and a live gig by Chic themselves.

Over the following week, you can expect a ridiculous line-up of events, including (but by no means limited to)…

…an al fresco funk and soul stage; an appearance by legendary Afrobeat eight-piece Kokoroko; gigs from the likes of Thundercat and Jungle; film screenings; Nile Rodgers in conversation with manager Merck Mercuriadis; aaand a voguing ball soundtracked by quite possibly the greatest disco music of all time.

C’est Chic.

NOTE: Nile Rodgers’ Meltdown runs at the Southbank Centre from 3rd-11th August 2019. Most events are free, but you can find out more, and book any tickets, HERE.

Nile Rodgers’ Meltdown | Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX

Like live music? Check out the best jazz bars in London