Featuring an all Australian and quintessential Queensland line-up, the AFL have announced the artists that will perform under lights at the Gabba on Saturday October 24 as part of the 2020 Toyota AFL Grand Final entertainment.
The line-up features one of Australia’s hottest bands DMA’S, Brisbane’s own worldwide success story and pop sensations Sheppard, local indie band Cub Sport, the unmistakable sound of Wolfmother’s lead vocalist and guitarist Andrew Stockdale, and Electric Fields featuring Thelma Plum and Busby Marou.
The acclaimed Queensland Symphony Orchestra will also perform, delivering a memorable musical experience as a first in Australian sport. In another Australian Grand Final first, Chong Lim, famed musical director, will oversee the unique blend of artists and orchestra. A special welcome to country will be performed by Brisbane group, Tribal Experiences, from Yuggera-Toorabul Country.
The AFL has previously announced Mike Brady will perform his iconic song, Up There Cazaly, from the MCG in a special performance accompanied by the QSO live in the Gabba. The National Anthem will be sung by Brisbane local Tim McCallum, rounding out an incredible group of diverse performers for fans across Australia and around the globe to experience.
“The importance and sheer scope of this event isn’t lost on us – the AFL Grand Final is the event of the year for so many Australians, we’re certainly going to put everything we have into delivering the most entertaining show we possibly can,” said Sheppard.
“Over the past ten years of making music together, we’ve strived to perfect the art of writing and performing these massive, anthemic, uplifting tunes that bring people together and we can’t think of a more perfect stage or setting for our music. We’ve got a euphoric, energetic and colourful show planned that we hope you’ll all enjoy.”
AFL General Manager of Commercial, Kylie Rogers, said this year provided an incredible opportunity for the Queensland music and arts community, which the AFL has welcomed. “On the back of an All-Australian line-up at last year’s Grand Final, we know there is incredible support to bring together local talent again this year,” she said.
“We have some of the best of Australia’s musical talent performing, with a unique sound and collection of voices – from the Torres Strait down to the south-coast – we’re proud to be delivering another All-Australian billing for the 2020 Toyota AFL Grand Final,” said Ms Rogers.
2020 continues to be a year of firsts for the AFL, with the historic move to the Gabba, a new night-time slot for the match, and now a brand-new entertainment format featuring both pre-game and half-time performances. “The half-time performance will give our fans an incredible new experience, with Brisbane’s own Sheppard to perform under lights during the main break,” added Ms Rogers.
“It’s been a long time coming to have a night Grand Final,” said Mushroom Chairman Michael Gudinski. “This year really showcases an incredible variety of different styles of music. This will take the entertainment to new heights in the future and I look forward to it continuing when it comes back to the hallowed turf at the MCG.”
The 2020 Toyota AFL Grand Final will be played on Saturday 24 October at the Gabba and will be broadcast nationally on the Seven Network. For more information, visit: www.afl.com.au for details.
Image: Sheppard (supplied)