Rotterdam Beats Festival Organizers Announce 2012 Dates

Organizers of the annual Rotterdam Beats event announced dates for the third edition of the annual music festival today (March 14). From November 15-17, some of the best names in international hip-hop, R&B, reggae and dubstep will be performing at the fast-growing event held in the Netherlands.

Beat’s 2011 showcase featured performances from Queens MC Action Bronson as well as international acts like France’s l’Entourage, the Netherlands’ Pete Philly and British rap phenom Piff Gang. G-Unit's DJ Whoo Kid also spoke on a panel that year.

In addition to live performances, Rotterdam Beats also includes conferences, an awards ceremony and other sub-programs for fans and music industry insiders alike. Panels featuring rappers, journalists and influencers from around the international hip-hop scene are also a staple of the annual event.

In only its third year, Rotterdam Beats is gaining a reputation as one of the premier showcases of international hip-hop.

"Although we've only existed for a relatively short time, the growing international response is encouraging and very promising," said festival director Roger Brouwn via press release. Last year, the nighttime festival alone attracted 3,200 people, a 15% increase from the year before.

Festival organizers are currently accepting submissions on their website [http://www.buma-rotterdam-beats.nl/news/next_beats] for artists who would like to participate in the showcase. Tickets for the Buma Rotterdam Beats festival will be available from mid August onwards and can be purchased directly on the website. –Calvin Stovall