Wild Gloriosa takes centre stage at Queenscliff Music Festival

The region’s rising neo-soul sensation, Wild Gloriosa, is set to grace the stage at this year’s Queenscliff Music Festival.

She joins a diverse line-up, featuring cult Aussie band Something for Kate, First Nations duo The Merindas, as well as Boy & Bear, Katy Steele, Dan Sultan, Ian Moss and more.

From the international scene, the line-up features the likes of Aloe Blacc, G Love & Special Sauce, and Irish sensation Foy Vance.

Wild Gloriosa crafts melodies that serve as intimate reflections and love letters to her audience.

Born as Gloria Ragesh and connected with her Tamil Nadu roots, she adopted her stage name from the state’s renowned flower, Gloriosa.

“My songwriting is much like a diary. I focus on feelings of joy and kindness, aiming to make people feel blissful and deeply connected.”

Previously a member of the soul-pop quartet JOSI, in 2022 she chose to pursue a solo project.

“I wanted something that directly reflected my own taste, so I embarked on this solo journey,” she said.

Having musically inclined parents, Wild Gloriosa began her classical piano training at five.

She prides herself on her poetic lyrics but admits crafting vivid imagery can sometimes be challenging.

“Creating beautiful lyrical imagery is tough. Those moments arise when I truly feel them in my spirit.”

“Connecting with my soul and writing poetically is crucial to me.”

Expanding to four days this year, the festival will kick off earlier than usual with Thursday evening performances featuring The Badloves, JAZZPARTY, William Crighton, Leah Senior, and more.

These artists will perform in venues such as the Queenscliff Town Hall, Queenscliff Brewhouse, and Vue Grand Hotel.

The festival runs from November 23-26.