We Believe in Live Music: Bluesfest 2025 Set to Shine
Bluesfest is back for its 36th edition this Easter, running from 17 to 20 April 2025 at the stunning Byron Events Farm, just 11km north of Byron Bay. The third artist announcement for this monumental event has delivered yet another wave of incredible talent, cementing Bluesfest’s reputation as Australia’s premier music festival.
Headliners and Highlights
Leading the latest lineup is the beloved Australian icon Missy Higgins, whose deeply personal lyrics and timeless hits such as "Scar" and "The Special Two" have won hearts worldwide. Her 2024 album The Second Act revisits the confessional songwriting of her debut, The Sound of White, and her Bluesfest set promises to span her extraordinary career.
Blues-rock legends George Thorogood & The Destroyers will bring high-octane energy to the stage with their classic anthems like "Bad to the Bone" and "One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer." Meanwhile, internationally renowned guitar duo Rodrigo y Gabriela will captivate audiences with their breathtaking blend of rock and classical guitar virtuosity, showcased in their latest project, In Between Thoughts… A New World.
Adding to the eclectic lineup is the soulful singer-songwriter Nahko, whose transformative music and storytelling have garnered a devoted following. His seventh album, Trenches, marks a new chapter in his career and is set to inspire fans during his Bluesfest performance.
BJ The Chicago Kid, known for his Grammy-nominated blend of gospel-infused soul and modern R&B, will grace the stage with heartfelt lyrics and collaborations with stars like Kendrick Lamar and Chance The Rapper. Rising star Melody Angel will deliver a festival-exclusive performance, combining her Hendrix-inspired guitar prowess with the raw power of her Chicago Blues roots. Finally, Don West will showcase his coastal soul sound, likened to legends such as Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield, promising a heartfelt and smooth addition to the festival.
A Legacy of Excellence Since its humble beginnings in 1990, Bluesfest has grown into one of the most significant music festivals in the world. Over the years, it has hosted a remarkable array of iconic artists, including BB King, Santana, Bob Dylan, Kendrick Lamar, and Australian legends like Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, and Crowded House. The festival is celebrated for its dedication to quality and diversity, offering a world-class music experience across multiple stages.
Bluesfest has also garnered global recognition, with accolades including a win at the Pollstar Awards for International Festival of the Decade and numerous NSW Tourism Awards. Its commitment to excellence and its ability to attract both legendary and emerging talent ensure its place as a cornerstone of the Australian music calendar.
Save the Date Bluesfest 2025 promises four unforgettable days of live music, culture, and connection. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Byron Events Farm, the festival continues its mission to celebrate the best in Blues, Roots, and beyond. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this iconic event.
For more information and ticket details, visit the Bluesfest website. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time attendee, Bluesfest 2025 is set to deliver memories that will last a lifetime.
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.
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