When the Stones Corner Festival rolls into Brisbane early May for its 10th anniversary celebration, there's one name you'll be seeing on the line-up twice – Tom Busby.
The Busby Marou frontman is ready to pull double duty, performing both with longtime collaborator Jeremy Marou and debuting his brand-new solo material to thousands of punters at one of Queensland's favourite community music festivals.Busby Marou are currently on a well-earned break after 20 relentless years of touring and recording together, but they couldn't pass up the chance to play this grassroots, charity-focused event.
"We made a promise to ourselves not to burn out," Busby explains, "but this is one of the few events we said yes to. It's just such an awesome festival. I've never been to it personally, yet, but all of our mates rave about it."
The event will be extra special for fans, as it marks the live launch of Busby's solo project, featuring songs from his debut album 'Rockhampton Hangover' that's due mid-2025. "My solo thing is really special to me at the moment," Tom says. "Being able to play in front of thousands of people and launch my project there – I think it's an awesome opportunity."
Recorded in Austin, Texas, with indie icon Ben Kweller, 'Rockhampton Hangover' is more than just an album – it's a deeply personal journey that brought Busby's Queensland roots together with his wife's American heritage.
"We pulled the kids out of school, took all our savings, and spent two months living on Ben's ranch," he recalls. "We hit Route 66, recorded the album, and introduced our kids to their American family. It was life-changing."
Fans can expect honest, heartfelt songwriting, a touch of outlaw country, and an intimate glimpse into Busby's world. "This is the album I've waited my whole life to make," he says. "No pressure, no radio expectations, just real songs about real experiences."
Of course, the day wouldn't be complete without a classic Busby Marou set to round things out. "We're like a family," Busby says of his musical partnership with Marou.
"We could be offstage for months or years, and it just comes together again. We've done a few shows recently since the break, and they've been some of the best gigs we've ever played, because we're just having fun again."
Also on the bill is fellow Central Queensland talent Brad Butcher, a longtime mate of Busby's and another artist with deep local roots. "We go way back – even before Busby Marou," Tom laughs. "There's definitely going to be some stage-crashing going on, and probably some special collaborations."
The dual performances will showcase both sides of Busby's musical world – the polished, feel-good energy of Busby Marou; and the raw, reflective spirit of his solo work. "Busby Marou will make you happy," he says, "but Tom Busby solo. . . well, that'll be the first time you actually see me."
With both Busby and Marou spending their time off reconnecting with loved ones – Busby on the road with his wife and kids, Marou enjoying life and stepping into a leadership role for Torres Strait Islander voices – the family-friendly, community-driven atmosphere of Stones Corner Festival couldn't be a more perfect fit.
Expect good vibes, great music, and a celebration of everything that really matters.
Stones Corner Festival takes place at Logan Road, Stones Corner (Brisbane) on 4 May from 12pm-10pm. It's free entry.
Stones Corner Festival 2025 Line-up
Busby MarouNever Ending 90s
Roaring Lion: A Tribute To Bob Marley
Tom Busby
Brad Butcher & Tori Darke
Seaside
John Hanley with Don't Shoot The Hurricane
