Erykah Badu, Lianne La Havas

A prime example of the all-pervading influence the blues has had on music over the past century, Erykah Badu's unique neo-soul sound has its roots deep in the traditions of contemporary black music, taking in blues, soul, gospel, funk, jazz and hip-hop and even going back to its pre-American roots in traditional African music forms.

Badu is a multi-award winning trailblazer who has influenced countless other artists over the years, and her appearance at BluesFest 2012 is a fantastic opportunity to witness a true musical pioneer in action.

Hotly-tipped soul-jazz songstress Lianne La Havas, hailed by one US critic as "the most striking female voice to emerge from Britain since Adele", has been confirmed as the support act.