GANGGANG, the creative force behind the BUTTER Fine Art Fair, and Forty5, the dynamic live entertainment company known for The Vogue Theatre and Rock the Ruins, are proud to present the I Made Rock ‘N’ Roll Festival on May 18. This groundbreaking event is set to be Indiana’s first one-day Black rock festival, paying homage to the roots of rock 'n’ roll while spotlighting the enduring legacy of Black rock and championing equity within the genre.

The Lineup

Headlining the festival are iconic artists such as Janelle Monáe, Gary Clark Jr., Robert Randolph Band, Joy Oladokun, Meet Me @ The Altar, and Inner Peace. These performers will take the stage on Saturday, May 18, captivating audiences at The American Legion Mall downtown (St. Clair Street to North Street between Meridian and Pennsylvania Streets).

Honoring Black Artistry

 Alan Bacon, co-founder of GANGGANG, expressed the festival's purpose, stating, “We are doing this to celebrate the significance of Black artistry in rock music, a sound with direct ties to the rhythm and blues of Black people. This festival is about the longstanding presence of Black artists and authorship in rock ‘n’ roll as much as it is about racism, cultural appropriation, and economic justice.”

Ticket Information

For those eager to secure their spot, a limited number of presale tickets will be available starting on Thursday, January 11, at 10 am. To access the presale code, simply sign up for the I Made Rock ‘N’ Roll email newsletter on the festival website. General public tickets are now on sale, with tickets starting at $75. Visit imaderocknroll.com for ticket purchases and additional information.

Community Building Through Arts

Jenny Boyts, CEO of Forty5, emphasized the shared mission of GANGGANG and Forty5, saying, “We are proud to be a part of producing this important series of events and look forward to bringing this amazing collection of artists to Indy, who will drive important conversations, create space for joy and celebration, and ultimately inspire us all.”

Lead-Up Events - Sonic Stories Series:

In anticipation of the I Made Rock ‘N’ Roll Festival, GANGGANG and Forty5 will co-present Sonic Stories, a series of rock music listening sessions and screenings scheduled for February, March, and April. This series, designed to spotlight local and regional voices, aims to spark conversations about race, music, and culture, delving into the origins of rock. Stay tuned for more details about this lead-up series, including ticket information, available soon at imaderocknroll.com.

The I Made Rock ‘N’ Roll Festival is not just a music event; it is a celebration of Black artistry, a platform for vital conversations, and a step towards a more equitable and inclusive future for the genre. Join us on May 18 for a day filled with electrifying performances and meaningful connections in the heart of Indiana.