The countdown is on to the final edition of Bluesfest, with a second wave of all-Australian artists joining the line-up.
Some of the country’s finest blues, roots and contemporary acts are hitting Bluesfest for its last hurrah.
Leading the charge is the long-awaited return of Hilltop Hoods, who will headline Sunday night with what is sure to be a show-stopping performance. The group has cemented its legacy, with six #1 albums and ten ARIA Awards.
Joining them are a bunch of Bluesfest favourites, who have played pivotal roles in the festival’s storied history. One of them is Xavier Rudd, who, over the course of his 20-year career, has touched lives worldwide with his uplifting music and message.
Then there’s John Butler, who has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages from Glastonbury to Coachella. His high-energy live shows have left a lasting impression on audiences, and the 2025 Bluesfest will give his fans an opportunity to witness his talent, alongside his brand-new band.
Aussie music icons The Cat Empire join in the fun. They recently revamped their line-up and released their tenth studio album ‘Where The Angels Fall’ in 2023. It was met with widespread acclaim. In 2025, The Cat Empire will be sure to light up the Bluesfest stage with their unique blend of jazz, funk, ska and Latin influences.
In 2018, Kasey Chambers was inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame. She’s a beloved Australian country music artist, with a career of more than 20 years. Her distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics have made her one of the most successful and acclaimed artists of her generation.
Bluesfest will celebrate the incredible contributions of First Nations artists in 2025, with Budjerah, Miss Kaninna, and Velvet Trip part of the line-up. Budjerah is one of the rising stars of the Australian music scene, bringing a soulful voice and personal storytelling to his performances. Miss Kaninna’s cultural narrative and stage presence have established her as an exciting new talent. Velvet Trip adds a bluesy and psychedelic sound to the mix.
Festival favourites like Melbourne Ska Orchestra, CW Stoneking, Lachy Doley Group, Ash Grunwald, and Kim Churchill all return in 2025 too – and The Beards will reunite exclusively for Bluesfest 2025, known for their humour, rock energy, and dedication to facial hair.
Additionally, new and exciting acts like FOOLS, ROSHANI, Sweet Talk and The Memphis Three round out the second artist announcement.
Tickets are on sale now.
Bluesfest 2025 takes place at Byron Events Farm (Byron Bay) 17-20 April.
Bluesfest 2025 Line-up (Australian Artist Release)
Hilltop HoodsXavier 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
Bluesfest 2025 First Line-up
Crowded HouseVance Joy
Ocean Alley
Tones And I
Gary Clark Jr
Rag'n'Bone Man
RY X
Allison Russell
Christone 'Kingfish' Ingram
Brad Cox
Here Come The Mummies* exclusive
The California Honeydrops* exclusive
Marc Broussard
Pierce Brothers
Taj Farrant* exclusive
Fanny Lumsden
19-Twenty
WILSN
Cimafunk* exclusive
Neal Francis* exclusive