SPOILSPORT RAIN, SUNSHINE AND TOP-NOTCH SETS RULED AT SHILLONG'S CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL WITH RONAN KEATING, NE-YO AND MORE

The event also featured performances by local acts such as rockers Lou Majaw and Snow White, blues-rock outfit Blue Temptation and more

- David Britto

After having to cancel last year’s edition of the Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong, there was a ton of excitement knowing that it was back for 2023. However, things at the RBDSA Sports Complex – where the event was being held – didn’t go quite as planned. Scheduled from November 17th till the 19th, the organizers were all set to kick-off proceedings until the rain came in on day one to dampen the mood which led to the cancellation of performances for that day. However, on day two, thankfully it was bright and sunny, and things went ahead as planned. Across the festival ground were the three stages, the Main Stage, the Cherry Blossom Stage and The Dome as well as a shopping area, tons of food and beverage options and even a kid’s zone.

SNOW WHITE SETS THE TONE AND NE-YO DELIVERS

At around 5:30 pm the music began at the Main Stage with a set from Shillong hiphop artist Banjop where he played his tracks “Bawsing” and “Sming Smong.” Next, Assam singer-songwriter/rapper Rahul Rajkhowa brought his eclectic sound to the festival from his silky vocals to fiery rap skills as well as some sublime fretwork too. Rajkhowa’s R&B pop sound and reggae rock elements included songs such as “Bad Girls” (his collab with K-Pop artist Jimmy Brown) and “Royalty” wherein he brought out rapper G’nie to join him on stage. This performance was followed by drummer Tenny, who also accompanied Rajkhowa earlier. Tenny showcased his progrock and electro-rock soundscapes through a blazing performance.