36th ANNIVERSARY BLUESFEST, BYRON BAY
EASTER 2024 17 APRIL – 20 APRIL 2025
Bluesfest 2025 continues to solidify its reputation as Australia’s premier music event with the announcement of its fourth wave of artists. Headlined by R&B legend Chaka Khan,rock icons Toto, the timeless sound of Christopher Cross, and the Polynesian vibes of Maoli. Further to these artists we are adding Clarence Bekker Band, Hussy Hicks, Eric Stang to this announcement, which delivers an eclectic mix of world-class talent, showcasing the diversity of music that Bluesfest has come to represent.
Chaka Khan (A Celebration of 50+ years in music), is a ten-time Grammy winner and one of the most influential artists of all time. Recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Chaka Khan has spent five decades captivating audiences with her unparalleled vocal range and iconic tracks such as “I’m Every Woman” and “Ain’t Nobody.” Her career spans collaborations with legends, impactful theater performances, and ventures into various creative fields. Beyond her music, Chaka Khan’s philanthropic work and commitment to mental health advocacy have left an indelible mark on the world. HerEXCLUSIVE performance at Bluesfest 2025 promises to be a soulful and electrifying highlight of the festival.
Joining Chaka Khan is Toto, one of the most enduring and iconic rock bands of the last five decades, will bring their legendary hits to the Bluesfest stage. Known for timeless anthems like “Africa,” “Hold The Line,” and “Rosanna,” Toto continues to captivate audiences across generations. With a career spanning over 50 million album sales, six billion streams across platforms, and a repertoire played millions of times daily on Spotify alone, Toto remains a musical powerhouse. Their members, including Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams, are renowned for their contributions to countless Grammy-winning albums, having won six Grammy’s in total. At Bluesfest, audiences can expect a masterclass in musicianship, with hits that have defined rock and roll history.
Christopher Cross, whose career began with an unprecedented sweep of five Grammy Awards for his debut album, brings his timeless melodies to Bluesfest. Known for hits like “Sailing,” “Ride Like the Wind,” and “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do),” Cross has sold over 10 million albums and earned an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and an Emmy nomination. With a career spanning more than four decades, he remains a master of crafting elegant, emotionally resonant songs. Christopher Cross’s set at Bluesfest will be a journey through decades of musical excellence, from his Grammy-winning debut to his celebrated recent releases.
Adding a Polynesian flair to the lineup is Maoli, hailed as Hawaii and Polynesia’s top independent commercial recording artist. Led by Glenn Awong, Maoli has taken their distinctive island sound across the globe, selling out tours in Hawaii, the U.S. New Zealand, and Australia. With award-winning albums like Sense of Purpose and headline performances at festivals such as Cali Roots, Maoli’s blend of reggae and island music will bring a fresh and vibrant energy to Bluesfest 2025. Maoli’s upcoming Australian tour this February is sold out, so your last chance to see this amazing band will be at Bluesfest.
Also Joining the Lineup
Bluesfest 2025 is thrilled to welcome the Clarence Bekker Band, led by the charismatic Clarence Bekker, whose soulful voice and electrifying stage presence have captivated audiences globally. Known for his work with Playing For Change and viral success with over 200 million views online, Clarence and his band bring an energy-packed blend of soul, funk, and pop that’s sure to mesmerise festival-goers.
Hussy Hicks join the lineup fresh from winning the 2024 Gold Coast Music Award for “Live Act of the Year” and topping the Australian Independent Record Labels Association album charts. Their dynamic performances blend blues, roots, and folk, making them a standout addition to this year’s festival.
Eric Stang is set to deliver another unforgettable performance. Known for starring as Jerry Lee Lewis in the Tony Award-winning musical Million Dollar Quartet and performing with Selena Gomez on major shows like The Tonight Show, Eric’s explosive energy and versatile talent promise to captivate audiences once again.
Rounding out this announcement are the winners of the 2024 Bluesfest Busking Competition: The Steele Syndicate and The Royals. Both artists impressed judges and audiences alike with their dynamic performances and will now take the stage at Bluesfest, showcasing the next generation of exceptional musical talent.
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11 December 2024
As Bluesfest prepares for its monumental 2025 edition, the third artist announcement introduces another stellar wave of talent to the already stacked lineup. Headlined by the iconic Missy Higgins, this announcement delivers a dynamic mix of Blues, Roots, and Soul artists from around the globe. From international legends like George Thorogood & The Destroyers and Rodrigo y Gabriela to festival exclusives like Melody Angel, Bluesfest 2025 continues to prove why it’s Australia’s premier music event.
This latest lineup underscores Bluesfest’s commitment to delivering both international and local artists, blending the best of contemporary music with a nod to the festival’s rich Blues and Roots heritage.
Missy Higgins headlines this wave of announcements with her deeply personal and chart-topping repertoire. Over her 20-year career, Missy has won hearts worldwide with hits like “Scar,” “Ten Days,” and “The Special Two.” Her 2024 album The Second Act revisits the confessional songwriting of her iconic debut album The Sound of White and is already creating a buzz with sold-out tour dates and critical acclaim. Missy’s return to Bluesfest promises a set that spans her extraordinary career, blending timeless hits with introspective new material.
Adding a high-octane element to the lineup, George Thorogood & The Destroyers bring their legendary Blues-rock anthems to the Bluesfest stage. With classics like “Bad to the Bone” and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer,” Thorogood has cemented his place as a global icon of the genre. Expect electrifying guitar riffs, raw vocals, and a rock-and-roll attitude that has thrilled audiences for decades.
Internationally renowned guitar duo Rodrigo y Gabriela are set to deliver their breathtaking blend of rock, and classical guitar virtuosity. From humble beginnings busking on the streets of Dublin to headlining major venues like the Sydney Opera House and Glastonbury, the Grammy-winning pair have redefined what two guitars can achieve. Their latest project, In Between Thoughts… A New World, sees them expand their sound with orchestral arrangements, promising an awe-inspiring performance at Bluesfest.
Singer-songwriter Nahko returns to share his uplifting and transformative music. Marking a new chapter in his career with his seventh album, Trenches, Nahko combines intimate storytelling with a sound that transcends borders and genres. His live shows are more than concerts—they are communal experiences, inviting fans into a world of connection and shared emotion.
Also joining the lineup is BJ The Chicago Kid, whose Grammy-nominated soul music has captivated audiences with its gospel-infused vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Known for collaborations with stars like Kendrick Lamar and Chance The Rapper, BJ’s blend of classic soul and modern R&B is guaranteed to move and inspire.
In an exclusive festival performance, Melody Angel will showcase her powerful voice and Hendrix-inspired guitar skills. Hailed as a rising star of Blues, Melody’s performances channel the energy of her Chicago Blues Roots and the charisma of icons like Tina Turner. With appearances on NPR’s Tiny Desk and glowing reviews from critics, Melody Angel’s set will be a must-see for Blues enthusiasts.
Rounding out this announcement is the soulful sound of Don West, whose coastal soul stylings have been likened to legends like Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield. With tracks like “Rather Be Lonely” and “Small Change,” Don has earned global acclaim and five-star reviews, promising a smooth and heartfelt performance at Bluesfest 2025.
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14 August 2024
Bluesfest Byron Bay, Australia’s premier and most awarded music festival in Australia ever, proudly announces that the 2025 edition will be its final curtain call. After 35 years of celebrating the very best in Blues, Roots music, and Beyond, the legendary institution that has brought the world’s greatest artists to Australia, plus a whole bunch of our own, will host its last festival on the legendary Byron Events Farm, just outside of Byron Bay, NSW, Australia.
As the final chapter in Bluesfest’s iconic legacy approaches, fans are urged to be part of history. The first of many artist announcements for the 2025 festival, which promises to feature a lineup worthy of this momentous occasion, will be unveiled in one week. This is the last chance to experience the magic, the music, and the memories that have made Bluesfest a beloved institution, and we are expecting many our greatest artist, plus a bunch of first timers to join us in the celebration, with a first artist announcement imminent.
Peter Noble OAM, Festival Director and the driving force behind Bluesfest, expressed the significance of this decision:
“To my Dear Bluesfest Family, and after more than 50 years in the music business, Bluesfest has been a labour of love, a celebration of music, community, and the resilient spirit of our fans. But after the 2025 festival, as much as it pains me to say this, it’s time to close this chapter. As I said earlier this year at Bluesfest 2024, next year’s festival will be happening and it definitely is, but it will be our last. To my dear Bluesfest family, I want to make it the most unforgettable experience yet. If you’ve been thinking about it, now is your last chance to experience our beloved festival.“