Festival Celebrates Bad Seeds Legend Conway Savage in Ireland This September

Celebrate the music and legacy of Conway Savage, famed pianist for Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, at a special festival in Dundalk this September.

A Festival Honoring a Musical Legend

If you’re a fan of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, there’s a heartwarming tribute coming your way. A festival is set to take place in Ireland later this year, dedicated to celebrating the life and music of the late Conway Savage, the talented pianist who was an integral part of the band.

Conway Savage performing with Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

Conway Savage passed away in 2018 at the age of 58 after battling a brain tumor. His musical journey with the Bad Seeds spanned decades, playing on every album from 1992’s Henry’s Dream to 2013’s Push The Sky Away—with a single exception of Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!!. Beyond the band, Savage built a respected solo career that showcased his unique voice and talents over multiple decades.

Conway Savage’s Special Connection to Dundalk

Savage’s bond with Ireland, especially the town of Dundalk in County Louth, was deep and lasting. This connection dates back to the year 2000 when he performed at the Spirit Store venue alongside Australian musician Suzie Higgie. They were promoting their collaborative album Soon Will Be Tomorrow, and Savage kept coming back to the town to perform in the following years.

‘These Are The Waves’: A Celebration Festival

Now, Dundalk is set to host These Are The Waves: A Celebration of the Music of Conway Savage from September 12 to 14—a festival dedicated entirely to his musical legacy. The festival promises to be filled with heartfelt performances and special moments honoring Savage’s impact.

“A member of Bad Seeds for nearly thirty years, Conway was the anarchic thread that ran through the band’s live performances. He was much loved by everyone, band members and fans alike.” – Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

Spirit Store venue where Conway Savage performed with Suzie Higgie

Festival Highlights: Music, Conversation, and Tribute

The festival kicks off on Friday night with an impressive lineup of musicians, including Suzie Higgie, Mick Harvey from the Bad Seeds, and Terry Edwards, who has collaborated with PJ Harvey. They will perform a concert featuring Savage's music, creating an unforgettable homage.

On September 13, Higgie will perform the entire album Soon Will Be Tomorrow, bringing to life the collaboration she shared with Savage. The same day, Mick Harvey will host an “In Conversation” session, giving fans the chance to hear stories and insights about Conway’s remarkable career.

Tickets for all festival events are available here.

Remembering Conway Savage: Words From The Band

At the time of Savage’s passing, the Bad Seeds shared a touching tribute that perfectly encapsulated his spirit:

“Irascible, funny, terrifying, sentimental, warm-hearted, gentle, acerbic, honest, genuine – he was all of these things and quite literally had the gift of a golden voice, high and sweet and drenched in soul.”

Nick Cave himself recalled a poignant memory:

“On a drunken night, at four in the morning, in a hotel bar in Cologne, Conway sat at the piano and sang ‘Streets of Laredo’ to us in his sweet, melancholy style and stopped the world for a moment. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Goodbye Conway, there isn’t a dry eye in the house.”

As the festival approaches, fans and friends of Conway Savage will gather to celebrate a musician whose talent and spirit left an indelible mark on the music world.

Conclusion

How will you be honoring the legacy of Conway Savage this year? Will you be joining the festival in Dundalk or celebrating his music from afar?

FAQs About the Conway Savage Festival

• What dates will the Conway Savage festival take place?
  The festival will run from September 12 to 14 in Dundalk, Ireland.
• Where can I buy tickets for the festival?
  Tickets for all events can be purchased through the festival's official link: linktr.ee/thesearethewaves.
• Who are some of the featured performers?
  The lineup includes Suzie Higgie, Mick Harvey, and Terry Edwards, among others.
• What is the significance of Dundalk for Conway Savage?
  Dundalk was a special place for Conway; he performed there multiple times and had a close connection to the local music scene.
• Will there be any special performances during the festival?
  Yes, Suzie Higgie will perform the album Soon Will Be Tomorrow in full, and Mick Harvey will hold an “In Conversation” talk.

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