ORGANISERS of a music festival, set to take place at the Glenburn Hotel on April 4 and April 5, have urged more residents on the Isle of Bute to come out and experience their music, with a handful of tickets left for the event this weekend.
Butesong is an intimate boutique festival that celebrates some of the finest songwriters from Scotland and beyond.
The gathering, curated by Scottish singer-songwriter JJ Gilmour, features a carefully selected line-up of both established artists and up- and-coming talents, making it a unique event for music lovers.
And the singer is hopeful of attracting more locals to come, as the event celebrates eight years since moving to the island in rather opportune circumstances.
JJ said: “The goal is to try and get more locals to come, I’d love more of them to go.
“I can see who buys the tickets and there’s not a lot of local people – and I want them to come.
“The whole reason for bringing it to Bute is because it’s such a beautiful place, and yes people can come ‘doon the watter’ on the ferry, and that’s why people come, but from a local perspective,
if there was one thing I want to happen this year, it would be for more locals to come.”
JJ hopes that the festival will eventually move to the Rothesay Pavilion, but the songwriter has enjoyed expanding his horizons and taking his music to weird and wonderful locations on the island, even once playing a gig in the Victorian Toilets.
He added: “A lot of the local businesses really benefit from it.
“The event serves good for Rothesay and Bute, it’s a 400 footfall over two days.
“I don’t expect anything back, the island owes me nothing, but I’d just love for local people to come and experience it.”
But JJ was quick to stress that there is also plenty musical talent on show worth forking out for, adding: “This year we have Jamie Lawson, who’s signed to Ed Sheeran’s label, and some serious people coming who’ve made dents in the British music industry, and I’ve excluded myself from that.”
Jamie Lawson is known for his masterful songwriting.
Lawson achieved massive success with his self-titled album, which topped the UK charts and featured the Ivor Novello award-winning song Wasn’t Expecting That.
His latest album, Little Weaknesses, released after a four-year break, showcases a more personal and intimate style, inspired by fatherhood and a refreshed creative process.
One of the key highlights of the festival is The Bluebells, an iconic Scottish indie new wave band.
Active between 1981 and 1986, The Bluebells achieved international acclaim with their chart-topping hit, Young At Heart.
After disbanding in the 80’s, they reunited in 1993, enjoying a revival with their hit single re-issued and a memorable performance on Top of the Pops.
After years of anticipation, the band released The Bluebells In The 21st Century in 2023, their first album in over two decades, making their performance at Butesong a special occasion for fans both new and old.
John Bramwell, the frontman of the alternative rock band, I Am Kloot, will also grace the stage.
Known for his emotive and introspective songwriting,
Bramwell has carved out a significant place in the UK music scene.
His solo work, including the 2024 album The Light Fantastic, offers a glimpse into his evolving sound and profound storytelling.
Emerging artist, Ren, will bring her bold and beautifully crafted pop sound to the festival.
Her album, Revel In The Drama, received widespread critical acclaim for its themes of self-discovery and liberation.
Having overcome personal struggles, Ren’s music resonates with raw emotion and authenticity.
Michael McGovern, a rising star in the Scottish music scene, will also perform.
His debut album, Highfield Suite, garnered critical praise, and his unique blend of folk, rock, and Americana, influenced by icons such as Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, has earned him comparisons to some of the finest songwriters.
His music is known for its intricate arrangements and insightful lyrics.
Jack Henderson, a Glasgow-based songwriter, brings his Americana- inspired sound to the festival as well.
Described as a caustic blend of indie and Americana, Henderson’s album, Where’s The Revolution, captures a sharp yet captivating reflection on modern life.
With a rich history of performing alongside notable artists like Patti Smith and Cowboy Junkies, Henderson’s set will be an unmissable highlight of the festival.
And JJ will also perform as part of his ongoing solo career.
Best known for his time with The Silencers, Gilmour has enjoyed critical acclaim with his solo albums, including his latest release, This Time Will Pass.
Recorded with a talented line-up of musicians, the album showcases his continued passion for songwriting and musical creativity.
Butesong offers a rare opportunity to experience world-class songwriting in an intimate setting.
With a line-up that includes both legendary and emerging artists, the festival promises an unforgettable celebration of musical talent, creativity, and the power of storytelling through song.
