This week, I met rock and roll logistician Susy Dugan, who is on hand to give us the specs for this year’s Railroad Square Music Festival.
If one hasn’t heard its bass rumblings, this is a one-day, free block party in Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square. The streets are closed, the shops are open, the parking is free and four local bands will mount five stages to rock, folk, jazz and funk the turning of the season on Sept. 22.
The fest is the broadest possible survey of our local sound, boosting and paying for the whole scene. Being all-ages, full-spectrum and free, it is also the best place to survey who we are in 2024.
CH: Suzy, for nine years, you have been the fest’s production manager. What does that entail?
SD: As production manager, I oversee the stages and everything that happens on them. That’s staffing, electricity, sound systems and all the equipment for the bands. Basically, I make sure the show happens as planned (laughs).
CH: Are there any new stages to run this year?
SD: Yes! We will be showcasing local House Music DJs for the first time at the “Electric Railroad Station.”
CH: That will be near the outdoor bar hosted by Rodney Strong Vineyards and Moonlight Brewery Company. Who are your local headliners this year?
SD: Ellie James, Rico Pobre, Stella & Bandjango, Foxes in the Henhouse and J.Lately.
CH: Very cool. I’m excited for the Neo Soul showcase and the quinceanera fashion show. It’s amazing that this will all be happening within a few blocks. Susy, why did you choose Railroad Square as a location?
SD: Well, its layout makes it easy to close. It’s walkable from downtown. The train stops right there, and it’s right by the freeway. And because it’s Sunday, all the parking—including the mall parking—is free. There are the old buildings, the creek and the new construction. But it wouldn’t be possible without the shops and the metro chamber.
CH: Keeping this event free takes a lot of trouble. Why is it so important to you and your co-organizers?
SD: I think it makes the event accessible to everyone. It’s completely non-exclusive. It doesn’t matter your age. If you don’t have money in your pocket, you can still bring your entire family!
Learn more. Dial this link (linktr.ee/RRsquareFEST) or scan the following QR code to see and hear the lineup. See you there!
