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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Byron Bay Bluesfest
Easter, 17-20 April 2025
Details and tickets via www.bluesfest.com.au