Kai Music Festival 2023

 If you'd like to arrive early, gates open at 11:00 am. The local Konkow Maidu tribe will be blessing the land with an opening ceremony at 11:15am. If you'd like to witness the ceremony as a guest, please exit your vehicles quietly and leave your belongings behind for now. Follow the marked path and observe the circle with reverence.  Once it is over, you can start to settle in for the day or the night! Camping spots are on a first come, first served basis with certain areas set aside for families with small children. Music starts at 11:30am on the main stage. 

Relying on his versatility, John has played every style of music but some say the "F" in his middle name stands for "Funk-Master"! Ironically his latest genre/style came unexpectedly December 27, 2006 when his entire cache of drums and percussion instruments were stolen from his vehicle. Showing his tenacity he ingeniously reinvented himself by playing pots and pans! You won't believe your eyes and ears during his performances!  This man is as fun to watch as he is to listen to! 

 

A 3 piece rock band lead by singer / songwriter, Aaron Stroh out of Chico, California. One Up is fundamentally driven with a focus on Originality, Conscious Wordplay, and stoking good vibes everywhere their music can be heard.

 

 

Pat Hull is a singer-songwriter from Northern, CA. He has released multiple studio albums in the last decade, just recently releasing 'et al.' on new record label Only One on the Mountain. This release, as well as his back catalog, showcase layered compositions, songs written for piano, and rich vocal harmonies. In addition to being a musician, Hull also writes poetry, teaches non-violent communication and public speaking at Chico State & Butte College, and has three children who are the light of his life.

 

 

Born in a supply closet in a now-defunct hospital in Yuba City, Henry Crook Bird was almost destined to become a country folk songwriter. With his signature fingerpicking guitar and ukulele technique and powerful yet conversational singing, Henry weaves through tales of hope and perseverance from the northern Central Valley to the Sierra Nevada foothills where he grew up. His most recent record, Beyond the Gate, won the Chico News & Review’s 2022 Devo Award for best local album, with editor Jason Cassidy appropriately exclaiming, “You’re killing me, Hank! 

Aziah and Baynayah McConnell are a dynamic musical duo whose bond as brothers extends seamlessly into their harmonious melodies. United by their shared passion for music, the McConnell brothers have been crafting captivating tunes together since childhood. With an unbreakable connection formed by a lifetime of shared experiences, their music reflects not only their musical talent but also the depth of their sibling camaraderie. From humble beginnings in Chico, they've grown into a powerhouse collaboration, delighting audiences with their unique sound and heartfelt performances.

 

Lake, a 6-year old singer/songwriter, who plays keyboards, drums & produces. He loves performing live.

 

Mystic Roots Band (MRB) is a Chico, CA born, 5-piece pop reggae fusion band. With two feet solidly in reggae, the band seamlessly juggles elements of dancehall, Hip-Hop, EDM, pop, and a taste of rock. The band is always sharpening their evolving musical arrangements of vocal harmonies that are made richer by the groups’ female/male dynamic. The music and lyrics are catchy and upbeat, yet with a powerful, positive message. Attending a Mystic Roots live concert guarantees not just music for your ears, but also a high-energy show and powerful experience you’ll never forget. MRB promotes positivity and spreads a conscious message while still having a good time and keeping the party going!" 

 

Second Hand Smoke is GOOD for what ails you! Smokin' Blues, Swing & Rock & Roll

 

After taking a short FURLOUGH, Furlough Fridays re-formed in 2018 and began the songwriting process once again. They released their newest album "TGIFF" in December, 2020 which is streamable everywhere. The band is currently embarking on releasing a set of singles between now and October, before debuting their upcoming album "Whimsical Sweatshirts" on November 18th 2023. 

 

Cherry Ghoul is a garage punk rock band based out of Chico, CA since the beginning of 2023. Their energetic performances hype up any crowd with ease using their fast paced music, charming lyrics, and running-through-the-crowd antics. Whether they are playing at a local college bar or at an old folks nursing home, they bring the classic 90s garage punk sound with them. Just be sure to watch out for flying chunks of wood off of their drumsticks! 

 

Irayz Fire and Aerial Movement is a circle of mothers, sisters, and friends deeply rooted and dedicated to fire and aerial arts on and off the stage. 

 

Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting melodies and electrifying performances of Melli Farias. With a voice that effortlessly traverses octaves and emotions, Melli stands as a true powerhouse vocalist, captivating audiences with her remarkable talent. Melli is backed by a supergroup of talented local musicians, including Kevin Killion, Tim Knight, Jacob McDonald, Reese Villafranca, and others.

 

Please break down your campsite and leave the area free of anything that wasn't there when you arrived. If it didn't come from the land, pack it out! Thank you for being a good land steward. 
We're sorry to see the festival end, but we know we'll see you all very soon! Please check our events on our website and social media for Kai Music and Arts to see how you can participate with us all year long through classes and fundraising events. See ya soon!