As Bluesfest prepares for its 36th and possibly final edition, the third artist announcement introduces another stellar wave of talent to an already high quality lineup. Headlined by Missy Higgins, this announcement delivers a mix of blues, roots, and soul artists from around the globe. While many are still hoping for a knock out blow in the form of a genuine headlining music giant, music luminaries like George Thorogood & The Destroyers, Rodrigo y Gabriela, and Melody Angel, continue to add to the final Bluesfest mix.
Missy Higgins headlines this wave of announcements with her deeply personal and chart-topping repertoire. Over her 20-year career, Missy has won hearts worldwide with hits like “Scar,” “Ten Days,” and “The Special Two.” Her 2024 album The Second Act revisits the confessional songwriting of her iconic debut album The Sound of White and is already creating a buzz with sold-out tour dates and critical acclaim. Missy’s return to Bluesfest promises a set that spans her extraordinary career, blending timeless hits with introspective new material.
Adding to the lineup, George Thorogood & The Destroyers bring their legendary Blues-rock anthems to the Bluesfest stage. With classics like “Bad to the Bone” and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer,” Thorogood has cemented his place as a global icon of the genre. Expect electrifying guitar riffs, raw vocals, and a rock-and-roll attitude that has thrilled audiences for decades.
Internationally renowned guitar duo Rodrigo y Gabriela are set to deliver their breathtaking blend of rock, and classical guitar virtuosity. From humble beginnings busking on the streets of Dublin to headlining major venues like the Sydney Opera House and Glastonbury, the Grammy-winning pair have redefined what two guitars can achieve. Their latest project, In Between Thoughts… A New World, sees them expand their sound with orchestral arrangements, promising an awe-inspiring performance at Bluesfest.
Also joining the lineup is BJ The Chicago Kid, whose Grammy-nominated soul music has captivated audiences with its gospel-infused vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Known for collaborations with stars like Kendrick Lamar and Chance The Rapper, BJ’s blend of classic soul and modern R&B is guaranteed to move and inspire.
In an exclusive festival performance, Melody Angel will showcase her powerful voice and Hendrix-inspired guitar skills. Hailed as a rising star of Blues, Melody’s performances channel the energy of her Chicago Blues Roots and the charisma of icons like Tina Turner. With appearances on NPR’s Tiny Desk and glowing reviews from critics, Melody Angel’s set will be a must-see for Blues enthusiasts.
Singer-songwriter Nahko also returns to share his transformative music.
Rounding out this announcement is the soulful sound of Don West, whose coastal soul stylings have been likened to legends like Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield. With tracks like “Rather Be Lonely” and “Small Change,” Don has earned global acclaim and five-star reviews, promising a smooth and heartfelt performance at Bluesfest 2025.
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, James Brown, 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.
Bluesfest 2025 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.
Recognised globally for its excellence, Bluesfest has earned numerous accolades, making it the most awarded music festival in the Australian entertainment industry including wining Gold for best Major Festival in the NSW Tourism awards for Bluesfest 2024.
ADDED TODAY TO BYRON BAY BLUESFEST 36TH FESTIVAL
EASTER 2025 APRIL 17 – 20 APRIL 2025
Missy Higgins
George Thorogood & The Destroyers
Rodrigo y Gabriela
Nahko
BJ The Chicago Kid
Melody Angel EXCLUSIVE
Don West
BYRON BAY BLUESFEST 36TH AND FINAL FESTIVAL
EASTER 2025 APRIL 17 – 20 APRIL 2025
Already announced:
Crowded House • Vance 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 • 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