Iceland Airwaves started in 1999 as a one-time event in an airplane hangar. Since then, it has grown into a globally recognized music festival and conference. The festival brings together local and international artists, along with music professionals. It spans three days across various venues in downtown Reykjavik. This year, Iceland Airwaves celebrates its 25th anniversary with performances from artists like Bar Italia, Magdalena Bay, The Vaccines, English Teacher, and Shygirl. Icelandic acts such as Úlfur Úlfur, GDRN, and Virgin Orchestra will also perform. Over the years, artists like TV on the Radio, Laufey, Fleet Foxes, Robyn, Florence and the Machine, and Sigur Rós have graced the lineup. These choices reflect the festival’s dedication to diverse and innovative talent.
Building on its long history of supporting talent, Iceland Airwaves announced a new program today. The festival will collaborate with its founding partner, IcelandAir, and with music festivals across North America. This partnership gives artists at these events a chance to visit and perform in Iceland. Icelandic artists will also gain opportunities to perform in the U.S. The Iceland Airwaves Exchange program will start with the New Colossus Festival in March 2025. More events in other markets will follow.
Partnership with UG Strategies
Parag Bhandari of UG Strategies developed the program with Isi Thorhollson at Sena Live, the producers of Iceland Airwaves. Bhandari expressed his enthusiasm: “After attending Iceland Airwaves for a few years, it’s exciting to strengthen this relationship. Iceland Airwaves stands as one of the best in the international music conference circuit. We’re eager to launch this cross-cultural music and business program.”
Steven Matrick, co-founder of New Colossus, added: “When we launched New Colossus seven years ago, our goal was to create showcase opportunities for international artists in the U.S. and vice-versa. Partnering with the Iceland Airwaves Exchange perfectly matches our mission.”
Until August 30, artists who apply to showcase at New Colossus Festival can enter for a chance to perform at Iceland Airwaves this year. Selected artists will receive round-trip flights, hotel accommodations, and event credentials. Event organizers will contact them with more details in early September. Artists can apply to New Colossus here.
For more information, visit Iceland Airwaves’ site.