Baloise Session Backline Blog

Four fans, four stories. They all experienced something at the Baloise Session that they will never forget. There’s Gerhard, who has been collecting every ticket for decades and loves to dance at the front of the stage. Marco, the young country fan who went home with Brad Paisley’s original Stetson. Eva, who suddenly found herself standing next to Nile Rodgers on stage. And Neo, who was chosen by Jessie J to perform the rap part of her smash hit “Bang Bang” live. Get to know them in the latest edition of our Backline Blog – brought to you by Techno AG.

Beatrice Stirnimann has been shaping the Baloise Session for over 30 years – from her early days as an evening assistant to becoming CEO of one of Europe's most renowned music festivals. In the Backline Blog, she talks about moving encounters with stars such as Dave Gahan and Zucchero, team spirit, passion and the challenges behind the scenes. The interview provides a personal insight into her impressive career and the magic of the Baloise Session, where global stars and newcomers perform in a unique club atmosphere.

He is one of the founding fathers of the Baloise Session. Forty years ago, Steffi Werthmüller, together with Matthias Müller († 2016) and Rico Bonometti, had the crazy idea of bringing jazz, blues and gospel stars to Basel. The result is one of the most prestigious and intimate festivals in Europe, which now provides a stage for all genres of music. He has played a key role in shaping it during crucial phases and remains closely associated with it to this day. Zeno van Essel interviewed him in the latest edition of the Backline Blog – brought to you by Basler Kantonalbank.

Behind the prestigious names of our line-up, there are people who remain in the background but without whom the Baloise Session would not be possible. The «Friends of the Baloise Session» support the festival, inspired by a deep commitment to creating genuine emotions and enabling unforgettable moments. In the latest edition of our Backline Blog – brought to you by Ricola – find out more about this very important association.

Every year behind the scenes of the Baloise Session, a unique calender is created that reflects the vibrant spirit of the festival. Photographer Flavia Schaub, who has been behind the camera since 2011, shares some fascinating insights into her work in the latest edition of our Backline Blog – brought to you by Novartis. With a lot of preparation, an experienced team and an eye for spontaneous moments, it is possible to get stars out of «promo mode» and tell real stories. Dive into a world where flashlights are more than just pictures – they are works of art filled with emotions and memories.

«For me, the most fascinating thing about music production is that no moment can be repeated,» says Richi Bärlocher from BBM Productions. Together with his brother Roli Bärlocher and their crew, they capture the irretrievable magic of live concerts at the Baloise Session. In the latest edition of our backline blog – brought to you by AMAG – take a look behind the scenes of our concert recordings, which can be seen all over the world.

In the latest edition of our Backline Blog – brought to you by Novartis – we introduce you to four of our evening helpers. Lisa, Sandra, Astrid and Christian share some fascinating anecdotes from more than two decades of working for the Baloise Session. From ticket checking to looking after guests: they have experienced everything. «The Baloise Session is so big – and yet so familiar», enthuses Lisa. A great opportunity to experience the music festival from a completely different perspective!

«I’m a typical kid from a children's home», admits Morow in the latest edition of our Backline Blog – brought to you by AMAG. The up-and-coming Basel rapper has not only taken the Swiss music scene by storm, but is also using his platform to speak about mental health. In an exclusive interview, he talks about his eventful youth, his musical development and his commitment to young people.

«Music is my release valve for spreading joy and showing: You are not alone!» In the latest issue of our Backline Blog – brought to you by Host City Basel – Swiss dialect musician Skip provides exciting insights into his artistic journey – from his beginnings in a youth centre to the sell-out show in the Kaserne Basel and his pop-up concerts at the Baloise Session.

It was a highlight for the Baloise Session – and for him personally: Marc Sway opened this year’s festival edition with a thrilling concert. The Backline Blog – brought to you by Baloise – accompanied him on the way to his performance and provides exclusive insights into the creative process and multifaceted personality of Marc Sway, one of Switzerland’s most successful pop stars. Follow Marc Sway at the media conference, in the Powerplay Studio, and backstage at the Baloise Session.