Ask your average Joe on the streets of Cape Town what ‘Rockabilly’ means and they will probably think of some toothless straw-chewing hicks from Alabama rocking out the dungarees. You should really be thinking of Elvis the Pelvis, the man who took the genre to the next level with his hip-shaking antics.
Ask anyone who has been to one of the Mother City’s two Dusty Rebels and Bombshells festival, however, and you’ll start to understand why this rockabilly-inspired event has proven so popular, culminating in the first Dusty Rebels and Bombshells of the North event in Pretoria.
The much-loved festival has become synonymous with uniqueness, self- expression and creativity. It is the festival’s vision to create the world’s most inspirational platform, to expose the Rockabilly lifestyle to a broader community that isn’t necessarily aware of all the aspects of the culture.
So what can fans up in Pretoria expect to see this Saturday (June 6)? First, is a stellar line-up including the likes of Martin Rocka and the Sick Shop, the Ratrod Cats, the Oh So Serious; the Moths, DJ Ted from Rockabilly Rhythm Radio, Black Orchid Jozi featuring Diva Disastar, La Foxy Bonnet, Mcee Dusty Rich and roller derby kings P-Town Roller Derby League.
In addition to the rocking beats there will be rockabilly staples like a tattoo studio, clothing and accessories, memorabilia and vintage rockabilly items. Festival goers will be kept well hydrated with event sponsors like Jack Daniel’s and Red Bull, lining the stomach with tasty treats such as smoked boerie rolls, pulled pork burgers and Mexican.
The festival will take place at 012 Central, 385 Helen Joseph (Church) Street. Entry to the event will set adults back R150 and R50 for those under 10, with limited tickets available at the gate.
You can find all the relevant information on the festival’s website, where you can also book tickets and have a look through galleries from the previous festivals. You won’t find many pictures of Alabama dungaree-clad folk, but you will get a glimpse of a rocking good time.
