Karima Francis to host Big Busk at Home virtual festival

The 33-year-old, who last month released new single ‘Orange Rose’, will be joining a host of northern artists for the ‘Big Busk at Home’ which will be presented live this weekend in support of the Big Issue North fundraising team.

‘Big Busk’ is an annual three-day touring live music festival, hosted by the Big Issue North organisation but unable to go ahead due to the restrictions of lockdown, will instead this year take place online, thanks to Karima’s curation.

On Saturday June 20, artists from across the north will come together to join Big Issue North on YouTube, Facebook live and Instagram live for 20 minute sets.

The line up for the event beaming live into the living room includes Ian Prowse, Blackpool band Jekyll, Manchester’s Everything Everything, Ren Harvieu, Hana Brooks, Ali Horn and Emily Barker and Clint Boon.

Karima said: “During the lockdown I have been curating a music festival for The Big Issue to help raise money for their vendors.

“Due to to Covid-19 The Big Issue Vendors, haven’t been able to work on the street selling The Big Issue, which has had significant effect people’s mental and financial well-being.

“The Big Issue vendors rely entirely on the sale of the magazine, routine and stability. With everything closing down during the lockdown, it’s been very hard for people not knowing when they can work again and not knowing when they will be able to to make money.

“Besides, some hostels have closed down due to funding, leaving people feeling anxious and unsafe.

"The Big Busk At Home is a pay what you feel kind of event. It’s none ticketed but there will be an option to donate, to support Vendors to return to work and continue to provide financial aid to those still shielding from Covid-19.”

The Big Busk at Home is free to watch and it’s non-ticketed.

There will, however, be an option to make a donation to support The Big Issue vendors’ return to work, with financial aid also going to those who are still shielding.⁠

Viewers can tune in to watch live sets between 12pm and 9:30pm.For more information visit https://www.facebook.com/bigissuenorth.