World-class artist comes to town

World-class artist brings roots, reggae, folk and tropical pop to town! 

Bobby Alu with featured guest Foloi Iulia, is coming to tour the Sunshine Coast this February 2024

Byron Bay’s own Bobby Alu brings his unique blend of Polynesian rhythms, engaging storytelling and effortless harmonies to the Sunshine Coast this February.

Armed with his trademark baritone ukulele and log drums, Bobby Alu’s music transcends genres,seamlessly navigating the groove spectrum from folk through roots, reggae to tropical pop. 

His performances have earned him a stellar reputation as a world-class artist, having toured as Xavier Rudd’s percussionist for five years and supporting the likes of John Butler Trio and Busby Marou.

In this special concert series touring to Maleny, Pomona, Coolum and Eudlo, Bobby Alu will be joined by his mother, Foloi Iulia. Together they create a mesmerising fusion of graceful Samoan dance and traditional songs. This collaboration promises to showcase the purest essence of enjoyment through music, culture and family connection.

Bobby shares “I am super proud to have my mum join me on this tour to the Sunshine Coast. Honestly, I never thought I’d be collaborating on music with her! It’s kind of a trip and I’m loving it. 

“The memories of sitting at my parents’ kitchen table, learning Samoan songs while growing up, have become a staple for me. A way for me to connect to culture. A thread that holds influence on the way I roll.”

When asked what his music sounds like, Bobby explains how he hopes it makes you feel: “like you have your favourite drink in hand, sipping as the sun sets on a balmy evening that’s laden with the promise of adventure”.

Bobby Alu’s music is a celebration of diverse influences and experiences, from playing ukulele at local markets to touring the world as a percussionist. Always open to discovery, Bobby Alu honours his Samoan heritage through collaborations and releases, connecting with the language of his mother’s homeland.

The Bobby Alu Sunshine Coast tour is presented by local performing arts company Red Chair with the support of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland. 

Sunshine Coast Performance Dates – Maleny Community Centre: Thursday 22 February, 7pm, Majestic Theatre, Pomona: Friday 23 February, 7pm, Coolum Civic Centre: Saturday 24 February, 7pm, and Eudlo Hall: Sunday 25 February, 4pm.

For more details and to book, visit redchair.com.au