Iconic US DJ Madlib Joins RISING Lineup

Naarm festival RISING has today announced that US producer, DJ and rap icon Madlib will join the lineup and headline a huge closing night party at The Forum. 

Kicking off on Saturday June 17, this will be the visionary’s first show in Australia since the 2021 release of his Sound Ancestors LP, fans can expect an all-out performance that will create memories for years to come. 

Sprawling over three of Melbourne’s iconic music venues, The Forum Theatre, Melbourne Recital Centre and Max Watt’s, Madlib joins a genre-bending program of the most innovative acts from across the globe, including Cornelius, Ruth Radelet, Desire Marea, Ethel Cain, Thundercat, Ichiko Aoba, Uncle Kutcha Edwards, Liv.e, Weyes Blood, Real Lies, Lorraine James and a late night party programmed by digital radio pioneers NTS that includes EYE, Melati ESP, Mindy Meng Wang and Otologic. You can view the full lineup here. 

As well as joining the RISING lineup in Melbourne, Madlib will be heading to Sydney to headline the Astral People Vivid Party on June 10 as a part of VIVID Sydney 2023. He will be replacing Flying Lotus, who is no longer able to perform.

Born Otis Jackson Jr., Madlib emerged in the early 1990s, establishing a close-knit collective known as CDP in his Oxnard-based "Crate Diggas Palace" studio. His debut solo project, The Unseen, released in 2000 under the pseudonym Quasimoto, garnered critical acclaim and was recognized by Spin as one of the top albums of the year. Exploring a wealth of different genres, Madlib has delved deep into a range of modes, becoming a sought-after collaborator.

Rising over his career to become one of hip hop’s most prolific and sought-after producers, his talent has caught the attention of heavyweights across the scene, from De La Soul and Kanye West to Snoop Dogg. Earlier this year, he also revealed he would finish and release his collaboration with the late, great MC and producer Mac Miller, with a posthumous EP given the blessing by Miller’s estate.

The full lineup of the RISING wrap party will be announced soon, so keep your eyes peeled. 

For ticket information, click here.