The Independent announces partnership

The Independent has announced that it is partnering with the Black Deer Festival of Americana for the second year running. The event, which is situated in Eridge Park in Kent from 14 to 16 June 2024, is curated by music lovers, for music lovers.

Black Deer is at the heart and forefront of the rapid and influential rise of Americana in the UK and beyond — comprising the very best of country, folk, bluegrass, roots and blues, added the publisher. Last year’s edition saw Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, The Pretenders and Bonnie Raitt headline the weekend, with standout sets from the likes of CMAT, Bears Den and Richard Hawley.

But whilst music is at the heart of Black Deer, it’s equally as loved for its authentic food and drink, family activities, artisan wares and custom-built motorcycles — all paying homage to the cultural heritage of America, the publisher continued. Visitors can expect gospel brunches, craft beers, expert demonstrations on foraging, butchery and knife making from master craftsmen, and fire cooking from industry leading chefs.

As the official news partner, The Independent says it will provide exclusives, updates and information on Black Deer. The announcement follows recent Independent partnerships with Montreux Jazz Festival, The Great Escape and Forest Live, and demonstrates the news brand’s commitment to using its huge platform to support and celebrate talent, spaces and events throughout the music ecosystem.

Roisin O’Connor, The Independent’s music editor, says: “Black Deer is one of the most culturally eclectic and rewarding festival experiences in the UK, and after a great first year together, we’re so pleased to be partnering again. Black Deer talks about being born from passion and built from experience, and that’s so obviously the case. We can’t wait to go back.”

Gill Tee, co-founder of Black Deer Festival adds: “We are so excited about Black Deer 2024 and to announce our official news partnership with The Independent. This year we welcome the renowned Sheryl Crow to our stage, and we are buzzing to reveal the news of the rest of our line-up. We can’t wait to return to Eridge Park and reunite the Black Deer family with another absolutely fantastic selection of artists.”