Multi-talented artist and musician Lonnie Holley is performing at Ramsgate Music Hall on Thursday (August 15.)
Lonnie, who has gone from a deprived upbringing in 1950s Alabama to becoming a key trailblazer for improvised music, is also known for his drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, performance, music, and filmmaking.
Holley’s sculptures are constructed from found materials in the oldest tradition of African American sculpture. His work is now in collections of major museums throughout the world, on permanent display in the United Nations and previously exhibted in the White House Rose Garden.
Last year’s record ‘Oh Me Oh My’ is an instant classic, featuring illustrious collaborators like Michael Stipe, Sharon Van Etten, Moor Mother and Bon Iver.
From the age of five, Holley worked various jobs: picking up trash at a drive-in movie theatre, washing dishes, and cooking. He lived in a whiskey house, on the state fairgrounds, and in several foster homes. His early life was chaotic but his direction into arts and music has earned him significant recognition.
Holley has released five other critically acclaimed albums prior to Oh Me Oh My––Just Before Music, 2012; Keeping a Record of It, 2013; MITH, 2018; National Freedom, 2020; Broken Mirror: A Selfie Reflection (with Matthew E. White), 2021.
Lonnie is on stage at the music hall in Turner Street this Thursday, doors open 7.30pm.
Tickets cost £17 and can be booked at https://www.ramsgatemusichall.com/tc-events/lonnie-holley/