Hip Hop Icon Killer Mike to Headline Vancouver International Jazz Festival

June's festivities at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival will be amped up with a performance by a renowned figure in the hip hop community.

On June 29, the Grammy-award-winning artist, Killer Mike, will take center stage as the Marquee Artist at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. This much-anticipated event was confirmed by festival organizers on Tuesday.

"Securing Killer Mike for the festival is a major accomplishment for Coastal Jazz," shared Cole Schmidt and Jeremy Page, festival programmers. "He brings a powerful musical presence that's perfect for the dynamic lineup we're excited to deliver this coming June," they stated in the announcement.

A veteran in the hip hop scene, Killer Mike has spent nearly three decades crafting his art. Not only has he succeeded as a solo performer but also as one half of the acclaimed duo Run the Jewels. His trophy shelf recently welcomed three Grammy awards in 2024, including one for best rap album for his latest offering, MICHAEL, as well as accolades for best rap song and performance with his hit, SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS.

Apart from his musical ventures, the Atlanta-born rapper has ventured into acting, appearing in TV shows and movies, and even clinched an Emmy for his talk show called Love & Respect with Killer Mike. His notable contributions aren't limited to entertainment, as he's also a prominent activist, standing up for social and political issues.

Ticket sales for his performance launch on Thursday at 10 a.m., with prices ranging from $59 to $99.

Killer Mike is just one of the many performers scheduled for the jazz fest, which goes from June 21 to 30. Music lovers can expect an array of ticketed and complimentary shows at various locations throughout the city.

Nina Horvath, the festival's executive director, commented on the prolonged impact of the pandemic on the arts and cultural sector. Still, she remains optimistic, encouraged by the renewed interest in live music seen at the previous year's event. "We're eager to continue that momentum and foster a thriving music scene that reverberates within our community," she said.

Those interested in the full festival lineup can find details on the Coastal Jazz website.

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