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Bluesfest, Australia’s largest International Festival of Blues and Roots Music in beautiful Byron Bay on March 29, 2024. Photo – Joseph Mayers

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We Believe In Live Music

Byron Bay Bluesfest
36th and final Festival
Easter 2025
April 17 – 20 April 2025

The All Australian
Artist Announcement

International Artists Announcement Coming Soon

Hilltop Hoods
Xavier Rudd  •  John Butler  •  The Cat Empire
Kasey Chambers  •  Melbourne Ska Orchestra
C.W. Stoneking  •  Budjerah
Lachy Doley Group  •  Ash Grunwald
Kim Churchill  •  Miss Kaninna
The Beards  •  Velvet Trip  •  FOOLS
ROSHANI  •  Sweet Talk
The Memphis Three
Feat. Fiona Boyes, Jimi Hocking & Frank Sultana

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HILLTOP HOODS

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A word from our Festival Director, Peter Noble OAM

First and foremost, I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the incredible outpouring of support following the announcement of our final festival. It’s been truly humbling to see how much Bluesfest means to so many of you. While the future remains uncertain, I am encouraged by the petition (details below) that’s been raised to keep the festival going by our state member of parliament. There’s real hope that with your continued support, and the backing of our community, we might just keep the Bluesfest legacy alive for generations to come.

Now, let’s talk about the excitement that’s building with this All-Australian announcement. While this lineup focuses on our homegrown talent, it’s still a strong Blues and Roots announcement, staying true to the heart of what Bluesfest has always been about. I can’t begin to tell you how many incredible artists have reached out, wanting to be part of our final festival. Scores of amazing talents from across the country have thrown their hats in the ring. It’s a testament to how special this festival is to the Australian music community. As much as I would love to include everyone, there are only so many spots we can fit into one lineup.

That said, I’m thrilled to welcome back some of our all-time favourites. You can’t say no to artists who have helped shape this festival over the years, including Hilltop Hoods returning after a 20 year gap and how can we be doing a best of Bluesfest without Xavier Rudd, John Butler, The Cat Empire and the incredible Kasey Chambers, alongside some rising Australian stars who represent the future of our music scene. This mix of legendary performers and up-and-coming talent is what makes this announcement so special and uniquely ours.

And for those of you eagerly waiting for the international artists, hang tight – we’ve got another announcement coming soon with some big-name international headliners and even more incredible acts. There’s so much more to come as we continue building Bluesfest into the unforgettable celebration it deserves to be.

Stay tuned, and thank you for your unwavering support.

Warmest regards,

Peter Noble OAM Director, Bluesfest

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John Butler // Photo – Kane Hibberd

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As the countdown to the final edition of Bluesfest begins, we are proud to reveal the second wave of artists joining the all-Australian lineup for Bluesfest 2025. True to the festival’s heritage, this announcement is stacked with some of the country’s finest blues, roots, and contemporary acts, bringing together an incredible mix of iconic performers and rising stars. From the long-awaited return of Hilltop Hoods to fan-favourite acts like Xavier Rudd, John Butler, The Cat Empire, and Kasey Chambers, this lineup reflects the best of Australian music, while paying homage to the festival’s rich legacy in blues and roots.

Leading the charge is the long-awaited return of Hilltop Hoods, who will headline Sunday night, delivering what is sure to be a show-stopping performance. As one of Australia’s most successful hip-hop groups, Hilltop Hoods have cemented their legacy with six #1 albums and ten ARIA awards.

Their powerful stage presence and iconic tracks have earned them a place in Australian music history, and their return to Bluesfest will be nothing short of electrifying. Following their recent releases, including the 2023 single ‘Laced Up,’ and their record-breaking tally of 23 songs in Triple J’s Hottest 100, the Hoods are set to ignite the Bluesfest stage with their energetic performance, marking another milestone in their unparalleled career.

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Xavier Rudd

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Joining Hilltop Hoods is a lineup packed with Bluesfest favourites who have played pivotal roles in the festival’s storied history. One such artist is Xavier Rudd, whose performances at Bluesfest have always captivated audiences with his multi-instrumental prowess and commitment to social and environmental activism. Over the course of his 20-year career, Xavier has touched lives worldwide with his uplifting music and message. 

In 2024, he released the Freedom Sessions EP, which further showcases his incredible musical range. Featuring tracks such as “Moments” and “World Order,” this EP has brought new layers of complexity to his live performances, which have been met with rave reviews across his tours in North America and Europe. Xavier Rudd’s presence at Bluesfest 2025 will be a fitting tribute to the festival’s ethos of blending music with a message.

John Butler, one of Australia’s premier alternative songwriters, also returns to Bluesfest with his new band. Known for iconic hits like ‘Zebra’ and ‘Ocean,’ Butler has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most successful independent musicians, with his genre-defying sound resonating with fans across the globe. 

John Butler has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, from Glastonbury to Coachella, and his high-energy live shows have left a lasting impression on audiences. His latest releases, including the instrumental album Running River, continue to push boundaries, further establishing him as a master of his craft. Bluesfest 2025 will give Butler’s fans an incredible opportunity to witness his exceptional talent with his brand new band.

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The Cat Empire

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Aussie music icons The Cat Empire also joins the Bluesfest 2025. Having recently revamped their lineup, The Cat Empire released their tenth studio album, Where The Angels Fall, in 2023, which was met with widespread acclaim. Known for their exhilarating and genre-defying live performances, the band has performed to sold-out crowds across the world, including at major festivals like Glastonbury. In 2025, The Cat Empire is set to light up the Bluesfest stage with their unique blend of jazz, funk, ska, and Latin influences. This is a performance not to be missed as the band continues to deliver the vibrant energy that has made them a Bluesfest staple.

Kasey Chambers, a beloved Australian country music artist, who has been inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2018, with five number one albums joins Bluesfest 2025. Kasey’s illustrious career has spanned over 25 years, earning her 14 ARIA awards, 24 CMAA Golden Guitars, and 10 APRA songwriting awards. Her distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics have made her one of the most successful and acclaimed artists of her generation. Kasey’s performances are always filled with raw emotion and authenticity, making her return to Bluesfest a much-anticipated highlight of the final festival. With timeless hits like ‘Not Pretty Enough’ and ‘The Captain,’ Chambers’ set will bring her storied career full circle as she takes the stage once more in Byron Bay.

Bluesfest 2025 is proud to celebrate the incredible contributions of First Nations artists, with Budjerah,Miss Kaninna, and Velvet Trip joining the lineup. Budjerah, one of the rising stars of the Australian music scene, brings a soulful voice and deeply personal storytelling to his performances, blending tradition with modernity. Miss Kaninna’s powerful cultural narratives and commanding stage presence have established her as one of Australia’s most exciting new talents. Velvet Trip, whose lead singer Zeppelin Hamilton is of First Nations heritage, adds a bluesy and psychedelic sound to the mix, captivating audiences with their raw energy and unique style. Together, these artists will showcase the richness and diversity of First Nations music at Bluesfest 2025.

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Kasey Chambers

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The 2025 festival will also see the return of festival favourites Melbourne Ska Orchestra, CW Stoneking, Lachy Doley Group, Ash Grunwald, and Kim Churchill, all of whom are beloved by Bluesfest fans. Known for their high-energy performances and undeniable talent, these artists will once again create unforgettable moments on the Bluesfest stage. Each has played a significant role in the festival’s history, and their presence ensures that Bluesfest 2025 will be a celebration of the artists and fans who have shaped the festival over the years.

In a special treat, The Beards will reunite exclusively for Bluesfest 2025. Known for their humour, rock energy, and dedication to facial hair, The Beards have been a fan favourite for years, and their return is sure to add a fun and memorable element to the festival. Additionally, new and exciting acts such as FOOLS, ROSHANI, Sweet Talk and The Memphis Three round out this diverse and dynamic second artist announcement, ensuring that Bluesfest 2025 will be a festival for the ages.

Ticket Update

With 60% of entry tickets already sold, camping tickets at 92% sold and large camping vehicle allocation SOLD OUT. The excitement for Bluesfest 2025 continues to build. As we prepare for this grand finale, tickets are moving fast, and we encourage all fans to secure their spot at this historic event before it’s too late. Don’t forget our onsite accommodation went on sale last week, with Glamping and Tent Motels selling fast and Rainbow Tipis currently available.

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Photo – Joseph Mayers

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Call to Action: Sign the Petition to Save Bluesfest

While the economic impact of Bluesfest is undeniable, the festival is still facing closure after its final event in 2025. However, there is hope. Local State MP for Ballina (which includes Byron Bay) Tamara Smith has launched an E-petition calling on the NSW Government to provide a rescue package for Bluesfest. If we reach 20,000 signatures, Parliament will be required to hold a debate on the future of Bluesfest. Currently at around 6,000 signatures in just 3 weeks. 

Why is Bluesfest Important?

Cultural Significance: Bluesfest has been a cornerstone of the state’s cultural landscape, bringing world-class music to Byron Bay and fostering a vibrant community of artists and music lovers.

Economic Impact: Over the last decade. 

o   Bluesfest generate $775 million for Byron Shire from festival goers spending in the community on accommodation, restaurants, etc. 

o   Plus over $1.1 billion in inbound tourism for NSW (people travelling from outside NSW or internationally)

o   Supporting 7,182 fulltime jobs in the Northern Rivers and employing 25,000 music industry workers employed onsite at the festival.

Community Spirit: Bluesfest is more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of the arts, a driver of regional tourism, and a vital part of the local economy. We are the pride of our community for over 35 years.

Tamara Smith MP has made a powerful call to action, urging both the NSW and Federal Governments to step in and save Bluesfest. “Bluesfest is not just a festival; it’s a crucial part of our community, our economy, and our cultural identity,” she said.

How Can People Help?

We need your support to ensure that this message reaches the halls of Parliament. Here’s how you can help:

Sign the E-petition: Your signature can make a difference. Let the NSW Government know that Bluesfest matters to you and our community. You must be a NSW resident to sign.

If we reach 20,000 signatures, Parliament will be required to hold a debate on this critical issue.

o   SIGN PETITION HERE

Share the Petition: Spread the word through your network. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to sign the petition and help us save Bluesfest. 

Share on Social Media: Use the hashtag #SaveBluesfest to show your support.

Raise Awareness: Talk about the importance of Bluesfest in your community. The more people know, the stronger our collective voice will be.

“We cannot afford to lose Bluesfest. It is imperative that we take collective action to ensure its survival for future generations to enjoy,” added Tamara Smith MP.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we can make a difference and secure the future of Bluesfest.

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Photo – Alex Hallag

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About Bluesfest Byron Bay

Bluesfest Byron Bay has been Australia’s premier contemporary Blues, Roots, and Beyond music festival since 1990. What started as a humble celebration of Blues & Roots music has grown into one of the most significant music festivals in the world. Of our many awards being recognized in the top 10 music festivals of the world from Pollstar, demonstrates  the significance of this festival not just locally but around the world.

Over the years, the festival has hosted an incredible array of iconic artists, including Blues legends like BB King and Buddy Guy, music legends such as Santana, Bob Dylan, Mavis Staples, Paul Simon, Bonnie Rait and Robert Plant, and contemporary greats like Dave Matthews Band, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, John Mayer, Mary J Blige, and Kendrick Lamar, who made his first festival appearance in Australia at Bluesfest. Let’s not forget the amazing Australian artists that have played such as Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, Kasey Chambers and Crowded House and so many more.

The final Bluesfest will be a four-day event, offering a power-packed experience that will close the curtain on this legendary institution. Held over the Easter long weekend from April 17 to 20, 2025, at the beautiful 300-acre Byron Events Farm, just 11km north of Byron Bay, the festival will continue to uphold its commitment to quality, featuring multiple stages and a diverse lineup that spans the best in Blues, Roots Music, and Beyond.

This final edition is not just the end of an era; it’s a celebration of everything that Bluesfest has stood for over the past 35 plus years – music, community, and unforgettable experiences.

Recognised globally for its excellence, Bluesfest has earned numerous accolades, making it the most awarded music festival in the Australian entertainment industry.

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Bluesfest, Australia’s largest International Festival of Blues and Roots Music in beautiful Byron Bay on March 30, 2024. Photo – Joseph Mayers

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Awards include:

1 WIN at the Keeping the Blues Alive Award Memphis for Bluesfest Director Peter Noble 

9 WINS at the NSW Tourism Awards for Major Festivals and Events - (6 Gold, 3 Silver)

Induction into the NSW Tourism Awards Hall of Fame in 2019 for three wins a row.

8 WINS at the North Coast Tourism Awards for Major Festivals & Events  

4 WINS at the Helpmann Awards for Best Contemporary Music Festival (Ceremony for Australia’s most talented and celebrated performers and industry) 

1 WIN at the Helpmann Awards for Best International Contemporary Concert 

8 WINS at the Australian Event Awards for Best Cultural & Music and Event of The Year 

6 NOMINATIONS for NSW for Major Festivals & Events at the Australian Tourism Awards (2 Silver, 1 Bronze)

10 NOMINATIONS at the Pollstar Awards (USA) for International Festival of the Year  (No other Australian Festival nominated in this or last decade)

1 WIN at the Pollstar Awards (USA) for International Festival of the Decade with a top 10 finish in 2021.

1 WIN at the first Variety Awards for Festival of the Year

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Photo credit: NatalieGrono

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AMNPLIFY – DB