The Isle of Wight Festival is a music festival which takes place on the Isle of Wight in England. While Zildjian has been a regular at The Isle of Wight Festival, premiering at the first ever festival with The Jimmie Hendrix Experience and the great Mitch Mitchell in 1969, 2012 marks the first time Zildjian’s electronic product offering; Gen16, graced the stage. The Gen16 AE Cymbal System appeared on the “Big Top” performance stage with two acts; FreshLive, with drummer Paul Kodish and Kelis with drummer Brittany Brooks.
Paul Kodish started using the AE Cymbal system in his all electronic Roland kit a year ago. His experience and understanding of electronics coupled with his amazing drumset chops, musical production and performance credits has helped the Gen16 team to refine and develop audio settings and Tone Shapes for the AE System. Paul also used the AE RACK.
Apparently, Zildjian artist Brittany Brooks has been giving Kelis lessons. The surprise came when Kelis mounted the drum kit during her show and entertained the crowd while enjoyed the playability and response of the AE Cymbal System (see video).
The Isle of Wight Festival was originally held from 1968 to 1970. These original events were promoted and organized by the Foulk brothers (Ron, Ray and Bill Foulk) under the banner of their company Fiery Creations Limited. The venues were Ford Farm (near Godshill), Wootton and Afton Down (near Freshwater) respectively. The 1969 event was notable for the appearance of Bob Dylan and the Band. Followers from across the world trecked to the Isle of Wight for what seemed like a 'second coming'. Estimates of 150,000–250,000 attended. The 1969 festival opened on Friday 29 August—eleven days after the close of Woodstock.