The 30th Annual WMNF

TROPICAL HEATWAVE

An extravaganza of eclectic and exotic entertainment

30 years of Tropical Heatwave! An entire generation has grown up since that first steamy, eclectic party in 1982 when the Cuban Club came alive with seven local bands, a Carmen Miranda look-alike contest, and 2000 fans. In 30 years Heatwave has become an annual rite of spring for fans of eclectic music, with mystery, legend and excitement contained in memories of the annual extravaganzas.

No longer just a Cuban Club event, Tropical Heatwave now spreads all over Ybor City with an incredible lineup of diverse entertainment, more than 50 bands on nine stages. The Crowbar became a new venue last year and this year PLAY will feature two stages, an Americana stage in their courtyard and an intimate acoustic stage inside. With PLAY and the Crowbar right across the street from each other, the corner of 8th Avenue and 17th Street will offer three Heatwave stages in close proximity,

The Heatwave booking criteria has always been musical excellence, strong visual appeal, fun, and high energy. This year we have two of the strongest headliners ever for Heatwave - Cracker and Carolina Chocolate Drops. For many Heatwave aficionados the most fun is the magical experience of collectively discovering new artists who never have played before in this area. This year there are more artists to discover than ever before. With Flat Earth Society (Belgium) and Barons of Tang (Australia) we lucked out getting outstanding international bands who will only play a few shows in this country.

While some of the national bands may be on your radar, you should not forget to check out the great local and regional artists who will showcase at Heatwave. We have handpicked great bands who are ready to compete for audiences with the national bands. It's always thrilling for both local bands and their fans to rise to the occasion by turning in some of the hottest music of the Heatwave. In particular New World Brewery, the showcase of the best local bands, is always hopping with Tampa’s coolest hipsters.

With nine stages of choice, everybody gets a unique experience by making their own strategy for seeing the best or the most music. Some people hang out at one or two stages where they know some of their favorite bands are playing. Others try to challenge themselves to keep moving and see as many bands as possible. Some just go with the flow. After Heatwave you will often find two people saying it was one the best nights of music they ever experienced, and they find out their paths never crossed watching the same bands.

In addition to the music, check out the street festival on 9th Avenue where delicious food, art and crafts vendors, and political activists hold forth. Find old friends and make new connections. Tropical Heatwave is a manifestation and celebration of the sense of community this radio station has created. We invite you to join with the other members of the WMNF family to share the fabulous music and friendship.