“It’s our 25th Birthday! We are going to be celebrating this one as never before and will deliver you one hell of a line up and mark my words: This is only the beginning!”
Festival director Peter Noble adds:
“John Mayer is finally coming back after seven years to play at Bluesfest again. When it comes to guitar he is undoubtedly to me the most talented of all performing today, simply untouchable and I say that with all humility. I predict his new album Paradise Valley – released last week, is going to be at the top of the charts worldwide this week – this is such a coup for us – and I am so proud to be presenting John on our big celebration year.
We are not stopping there – I have attempted to bring back Dave Matthews Band every year since they last played Bluesfest in 2005. They are one of the top grossing, most in demand bands in the world – as well as up there with the best of the best. Finally, they are coming back to Bluesfest, for not one, but two full length performances, and each night will be completely different as this super band never plays the same set twice! These performances are going to be magical and unmissable; I know their fans will be celebrating – and flying in from all over the world for these incredibly special performances.
Erykah Badu IS the current reigning Queen of Soul – and will play Bluesfest for the first time.
The John Butler Trio has been one of the most special artists to play Bluesfest – we have been presenting him since just after the trio was formed – and we welcome him back – this is going to be his 10th Bluesfest performance and a good excuse for a special celebration.
Michael Franti & Spearhead always delivers for Bluesfest and is coming back after three long years since his last show stopping dates on Bluesfest’s stages.
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Iron & Wine and Devendra Banhart are at the forefront of the best of contemporary music today and will all be debuting at Bluesfest 25.
Morcheeba – the original line-up of the Godfrey Brothers and Skye Edwards plus a new album – it’s gotta be awesome, right?
Gary Clark Jr has been described as the best thing to happen in Blues since Stevie Ray Vaughan – even president Barack Obama has called him – “The future of music“.
With the amazing KT Tunstall, Allen Stone, Valerie June and Nikki Hill also announced – I can guarantee this – every one of these amazing artists are at the top of their game and are renowned for their great performances.”
BLUESFEST 2014 25TH ANNIVERSARY FIRST LINEUP ANNOUNCEMENT
Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, Byron Bay
Thursday April 17 – Monday April 21, 2014
John Mayer – Dave Matthews Band – Erykah Badu
John Butler Trio – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros – Iron & Wine
Michael Franti & Spearhead – Devendra Banhart – Morcheeba – Gary Clark Jr
KT Tunstall – Allen Stone – Valerie June – Nikki Hill