Blue Ridge Rock Festival celebrated 2023 by promising an auditory and visual experience that would leave festival-goers in awe.
Blue Ridge Rock Festival, affectionately known as BRRF by seasoned rock enthusiasts, has long been a hallmark event in the world of rock and metal music. Its reputation as a colossal gathering of headbangers, mosh pits, and a never-ending sea of black t-shirts is well-earned, but it’s much more than that. BRRF is a celebration of music, a testament to the diversity of the rock genre, and an annual pilgrimage for fans worldwide.
It’s not just the music; it’s the people. The sense of community at Blue Ridge Rock Festival is a testament to the power of music to unite. In the midst of the roaring guitars and thundering drums, strangers become friends, and camaraderie reigns supreme. The atmosphere is electric with positive energy, making BRRF a safe haven for rock lovers of all backgrounds. This year would be by far the most unforgettable festival ever. With unpredicted weather and record-breaking heat. Wednesday night started off the pre party for the campers. Scott Stapp was the headliner followed by 10 year and Nonpoint.
Little did we know what Thursday had in store for us. The day started great, everything’s going smoothly but later in the evening a storm rolled in out of nowhere and made the festival evacuate us. The storm brought heavy rain, high winds, hail, and cloud to ground lighting. Once the storm passed the stages and equipment had to be reassessed to make sure the grounds were safe. Blue Ridge Rock Festival sent out a email Thursday evening making the call to cancel the rest of the show due to damage and they needed to make repairs.
The third day, Friday, started off hot once again with highs in the 90’s. Things were looking good compared to Thursday. Campers cleaning up from Thursday’s storm. People lining up at the entrance ready for a rock show. The Headliner for Friday was Slipknot. Slipknot is always a fan favorite. I myself was so ready to photograph them since last year at Blue Ridge the photographers were not allowed. Slipknot had an amazing set with great lighting, a photographer’s dream.
Saturday day 4 brought sadness. Blue Ridge Rock Festival announced they are holding gates due to pending weather. Saturday’s lineup looked great with bands like Shinedown, Megadeth, Papa Roach, and Parkway Drive. As the day went on, Blue Ridge Rock Festival made the announcement to cancel the rest of the day and the rest of the festival. I was very disappointed along with everyone else. People started packing up and leaving but the rest of us made the best of it. Shinedown announced a pop-up show for the campers with Papa Roach and Oliver Anthony. They played an acoustic set to the campers left. What an amazing group of guys. That was not the only pop-up show. Let’s not forget the band Heartsick, who organized their show at the campground along with three other bands. It without doubt brough the camping community together as we all became friends and one big family.
What an amazing weekend even with all the obstacles. Looking forward to next year BRRF 24 who’s ready!
