The Independent today announces a new partnership with Black Deer Festival, the Americana music event that will take place in Eridge Park in Kent on 16-18 June 2023.

As the festival’s media partner, The Independent will report on performances, interview artists and publish exclusive announcements. 

The partnership launched this week with The Independent revealing the first wave of Black Deer’s lineup, which includes the legendary Bonnie Raitt, in a UK festival exclusive. Other acts include Colorado-formed act Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Australian band The Teskey Brothers, songwriting legend Lucinda Williams, Arizona-based rock band Calexico, and Canadian singer-songwriter and activist Allison Russell.

In addition to the editorial relationship, the partnership extends across commercial activity, ticket competitions for Independent readers, and on-site activity and programming.

Accompanying the musical lineup, Black Deer hosts a range of outdoor activities for children, as well as authentic Americana heritage including artisan food and drink stalls, custom motorcycles, workshops and much more. It was named Festival of the Year 2022 by Major Events International. 

Roisin O’Connor, The Independent’s Culture and Music Editor said: “Black Deer Festival is one of the most culturally eclectic and rewarding festival experiences in the UK, so I’m delighted that we’re working together.”

Bonnie Raitt, Grammy-award winning headliner of Black Deer Festival 2023 said: “I’m really looking forward to coming to Black Deer Festival. I hear it’s a real home away from home for American musicians. See you next summer!”

Founders of the Black Deer Festival, Gill Tee and Debs Shilling, said: “We are thrilled to reveal the first names for Black Deer Festival 2023. It reads like a who’s who of Americana music past and present. We can’t wait to welcome our community back into the deer park to enjoy it all!”