Yungblud, the British singer-songwriter whose real name is Dominic Richard Harrison, is bringing his unique festival vision to the Czech Republic this summer. Bludfest, set to take place in Hradec Králové, represents a bold step for the artist, known for his energetic live shows and a fiercely devoted fanbase. But the festival’s location isn’t arbitrary; it’s a testament to the connection Yungblud feels with his Czech audience and a reflection of his desire to constantly push boundaries, both musically and creatively.
The 26-year-aged artist’s career has been marked by a willingness to collaborate across genres and generations. He recently released a new version of his song “Zombie” featuring the iconic band The Smashing Pumpkins, a collaboration he describes as surreal. This followed an EP with Aerosmith, marking the legendary rock band’s first new music in over a decade. These partnerships aren’t simply about chart success; they’re about a genuine exchange of artistic energy, something Yungblud experienced firsthand at a recent, star-studded birthday celebration for Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan.
“It was a wild and successful night,” Yungblud recounted. “We played bowling, and it was probably the most rock ‘n’ roll bowling birthday party of all time. Everyone I grew up idolizing was there – Butch Vig, Gavin Rossdale, Anthony Kiedis, and of course, Billy. It was insane.” The experience reinforced a belief he holds strongly: meeting your heroes doesn’t have to lead to disappointment. “I’ve been incredibly lucky to meet my heroes, sit down with them, and make music with them,” he said. “I grew up in a guitar shop in England, so these people were part of my life since I was five years old.”
From Guitar Shop Roots to Global Stages
Yungblud’s musical journey began early, learning guitar at age two and writing songs by ten. His upbringing immersed in the world of music clearly shaped his artistic sensibilities. He’s released four studio albums to date, with his most recent project, Idols, released in two parts. In 2024, he received a Grammy Award for his interpretation of the song “Changes.” But for Yungblud, the success isn’t about individual accolades; it’s about the community he’s built around his music.
“I think what’s most beautiful about this is the community we’ve built,” he explained. “We find no boundaries. I never would have thought I’d have my own festival in the Czech Republic. It’s absolutely crazy. It sounds strange, but it’s possible because of this community.” This sense of community is central to his approach to Bludfest, and it’s a key reason why he chose the Czech Republic as its inaugural location.
Why the Czech Republic for Bludfest?
“I came up with the idea for Bludfest,” Yungblud stated, “and I did it first and foremost because I love the Czech audience. They’re passionate, crazy, and wild. And secondly, Bludfest should never be predictable. I chose the Czech Republic because I love playing there. It’s maybe a surprising choice, but I’m really happy about it.”
The decision to host the festival in Hradec Králové, announced in November 2023, wasn’t without some pushback from fans in his home country. Some expressed a preference for the festival to remain in the UK. Yungblud acknowledges the disappointment but remains firm in his vision. “I always disappoint someone,” he said. “The story of Bludfest is that we’re going to the Czech Republic this year. That’s how I wanted to do it. It would be easy to stay with what already works. But I have a UK arena tour in April, so why would I do a festival there in June? I wanted to take the event somewhere else. I wanted to pull myself, my team, and everyone else out of their comfort zone.”
Building a Safe and Inclusive Community
For Yungblud, creating a safe and inclusive space for his fans is paramount. He emphasizes that his community is built on a foundation of acceptance and support. “It’s more about giving me a feeling of boundless creativity,” he explained. “I’ve felt like I didn’t belong my whole life. And that’s exactly what people in the Yungblud community connected on. We found those who wanted to belong. We shared ideas and it grew.”
He sees it as his responsibility to maintain that environment. “My duty is to make sure it’s as safe, empowering, and full of love as it was at the beginning. My mission is to expand the community as much as possible while maintaining the values it was built on.” This commitment is reflected in the lineup for Bludfest, which includes emerging Czech artist Pam Rabbit, who initially gained attention by posting Yungblud song covers on TikTok. “It’s amazing that Pam Rabbit, a Czech artist, will be performing at Bludfest,” he said. “Two years ago, she was doing covers of my songs on TikTok, and now she’s going to be playing on the same stage as me. We’re breaking down barriers between fan and artist. No pedestals. We’re a community, and we support each other.”
Foto: Michal Šula, Novinky
Yungblud loni v pražské Sportovní hale
Looking Ahead: New Music and Continued Collaboration
Yungblud’s collaborative spirit extends to his current work on a new album. He’s working with producer Andrew Watt in Los Angeles. “We’re deep into it,” he said. The album promises to continue his exploration of genre boundaries and his commitment to authentic expression.
As Bludfest approaches, Yungblud’s focus remains on creating an unforgettable experience for his fans. The festival, scheduled for Hradec Králové, will also feature performances by Biffy Clyro and Primal Scream, as reported by Novinky.cz. For Yungblud, it’s about more than just the music; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and celebrating the power of community.
Bludfest is scheduled to take place in June 2024. Further details, including the full lineup and ticket information, can be found on the official Bludfest website. What do you think about Yungblud’s bold move to host his festival in the Czech Republic? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
