April 28, 2024

BeachLife Ranch promotes authentic country, Americana music

SETTING THE STAGE: The Avett Brothers use simple instruments to create their unique country sound in their song “Murder in the City.” This performance set a high bar for the following performances, but Jack Johnson was able to surpass expectations. Photo by Lauren Becker/La Vista

By Lauren Becker

Staff Writer

The second-annual BeachLife Ranch music festival took place in Redondo Beach Sept. 22-24, providing country tunes, delicious food, and a spectacular venue that left festival enthusiasts amazed. BeachLife Ranch 2023 was an outstanding experience from start to finish. The festival’s coastal setting on the peaceful shore of Redondo Beach provided a breathtaking and peaceful background, with the refreshing sea breeze and crashing waves. Its location created a calming ambience that complemented the artists without distracting from the various performances.

The festival’s lineup showcased a diverse range of musical styles, featuring both emerging and established artists. The headliners for the weekend were the Doobie Brothers, Cody Jinks, Brad Paisley, and –the festival’s most popular act– Jack Johnson. Johnson’s performance particularly stood out because of his vibrant tunes and enthusiastic crowd.

BeachLife Ranch set itself apart from other music festivals with its tight-knit sense of community comprised of many South Bay locals. The audiences were lively and bonded over their love for music. The artists each created an intimate relationship with their fans by allowing them to sing along and participate throughout their sets.

With two main stages, there was a musical experience for everyone to enjoy. The stages were thoughtfully positioned to ensure that attendees could easily transition between performances, allowing for a seamless flow of entertainment. Additionally, the stages had enough distance between each other that the acoustics didn’t clash. Creative festival-style foods were a key component to the overall experience of BeachLife Ranch. Various vendors sold options such as gourmet tacos, vegan dishes, seafood and classic burgers and fries. The wide variety of food allowed for everyone to get a taste of classical festival foods, regardless of dietary rest

TURNING THE STAGE UPSIDE DOWN: Jack Johnson wows the crowd as he plays his iconic song “Upside Down.” Johnson masterfully pro- duces pieces with a mix of acoustic folk and al- ternative rock, while staying humble and loyal to fans. Photo by Lauren Becker/ La Vista

rictions.

Along with eating high-quality food, attendees could participate in line dancing, cornhole, and other fun activities that were set up across the venue. This allowed for endless entertainment in between concerts and provided opportunities for people to meet other country fans. The games also served as entertainment for younger kids, allowing parents to enjoy the performances without being distracted by or having to entertain children.

The cost for a general admission ticket was around $150, a fair price for access to all stages. Although significantly more expensive, VIP tickets allowed access to the front of the stage and private cabanas. The VIP price definitely contributed to the quality and thrill of the event; nonetheless, all tickets provided

an enjoyable festival experience.

BeachLife Ranch took place only four months after BeachLife Festival. Setting high standards, BeachLife had audiences anxiously waiting for its country and Americana iteration. While both festivals were highly acclaimed, BeachLife Ranch catered to a smaller country audience and fostered a more intimate relationship between artists and fans.

Beachlife Ranch held its annual festival from Sept. 22-24 in Redondo Beach. Visit beachlife.com for more information.

 

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*