Electronic and hip hop festival, BUKU Music and Art Project, returned to New Orleans to celebrate its 10 year anniversary. This is the first major festival to be back in New Orleans since the coronavirus pandemic and it did not disappoint. The festival showcased live artists, local vendors, New Orleans food, new stages and uplifting energy.
There was so much love from the crowd, staff and artists. One thing that makes BUKU so unique is how much work is put into the musicians as well as the live artists – there are photo opportunities in almost every inch of the festival. BUKU sits on the Mississippi River which makes for an incredible backdrop.
Some of my favorite sets were Vince Staples, CloZee, Alison Wonderland, and Glass Animals. I was also able to catch some of the local artists such as $uicideboy$, Lady Lavender, Sfam, and TVBOO. Every local artist had a huge turn out which made each set more exciting – you can tell that this city thrives on culture and being supportive.
I also had the opportunity to work for TroyBoi and TSHA. Within 10 minutes, TroyBoi had blown out the speaker but it didn’t stop him from throwing down for his fans. TSHA who is on the come-up packed out the Ballroom.
Everything about BUKU makes the festival one I want to continue to attend for years. There is an overwhelming amount of joy that comes when walking into the festival grounds, it makes you feel safe and at home. It’s such an uplifting, inclusive, and beautiful experience and I’m so happy that BUKU is back.