Bluesfest reveals first artist lineup for upcoming event

Byron Bay Bluesfest, recognized as Australia’s most distinguished and esteemed music festival, is excited to reveal the initial group of artists who are slated to perform at this year’s Bluesfest during the Easter holiday season. The lineup for this year features a mix of iconic legends, eagerly awaited comebacks, and fresh talents, embodying an affirmation of the power of live music and the enduring musical heritage that defines the essence of Bluesfest.

Leading the announcement is the groundbreaking rock group SPLIT ENZ, who will be making their first live appearance in Australia in over two decades. The return of the original members Tim Finn, Neil Finn, Noel Crombie, Eddie Rayner, Matt Eccles, and James Milne marks the band’s 50th anniversary milestone. Known for their timeless hits, theatrical performances, and boundless energy, SPLIT ENZ is set to kick off their much-anticipated comeback with a spectacular performance at Bluesfest.

EARTH, WIND & FIRE, a legendary and influential band with a celebrated legacy, is making a return to Bluesfest after nearly a decade since their last appearance in 2012. The band, formed in 1969 by music icon Maurice White, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with eight #1 hits, over 100 million albums sold, and nine GRAMMY® Awards to their credit, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. Their iconic tracks such as “September,” “Let’s Groove,” “Boogie Wonderland,” and “Reasons” have become classic anthems that resonate across generations.

The California-based group SUBLIME, known for their unique blend of punk, ska, reggae, and hip-hop, is set to make their anticipated debut at Bluesfest in 2026. Reuniting founding members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh with Jakob Nowell, the son of the late frontman Bradley Nowell, this performance marks a significant moment for Australian audiences. Although the original Sublime was never able to tour in Australia due to Bradley’s untimely passing in 1996, their musical legacy has endured over the years, with Jakob Nowell stepping into his father’s shoes and leading the resurgence of Sublime’s music on a global scale.

THE BLACK CROWES, known for their soulful swagger and distinctive sound, are making a return to the Bluesfest stage after more than a decade since their last performance in 2008. With two GRAMMY nominations and 30 million albums sold, The Black Crowes have solidified their reputation as one of the most electrifying acts in rock & roll.

The iconic Blues artist BUDDY GUY is set to grace the Bluesfest stage with a historic performance. As an eight-time GRAMMY winner and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Arts, Buddy Guy’s influence on generations of musicians is immeasurable, inspiring rock legends such as Hendrix, Clapton, and Vaughan in the process.

COUNTING CROWS, led by the charismatic Adam Duritz, are making a welcome return to Bluesfest with their poetic lyricism and distinctive sound. With a rich catalog of hits, including fan favorites such as “Mr. Jones,” “Accidentally in Love,” and “Round Here,” Counting Crows are renowned for their emotionally resonant live performances that captivate audiences worldwide.

Legendary Celtic punk band THE POGUES are set to return to Bluesfest for the first time in 14 years to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their seminal album “Rum, Sodomy & the Lash.” Featuring original members James Fearnley, Jem Finer, and Spider Stacy, along with talented guest vocalists, this special performance promises to be a nostalgic tribute to one of the most beloved albums in modern music history.

MARCUS KING BAND, the GRAMMY-nominated southern rock powerhouse, will be returning to Bluesfest following a successful string of headline shows in 2023. With his latest album “Darling Blue,” Marcus King and his band will bring their unique blend of soul, blues, and rock to the stage, promising an electrifying performance.

Bluesfest will also witness the long-awaited comeback of KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD BAND, commemorating the 30th anniversary of “Ledbetter Heights.” As a five-time GRAMMY nominee and a leading figure in the modern blues scene, Shepherd’s return will showcase his exceptional guitar skills and musical prowess to the delight of fans.

In a historic moment, JERRY HARRISON (Talking Heads) & ADRIAN BELEW (King Crimson) will be performing Talking Heads’ classic album “Remain in Light” in its entirety for the first time in Australia, along with other hits from their repertoire. As a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, Jerry Harrison, and the legendary Adrian Belew are set to deliver an unforgettable performance that pays homage to one of the iconic albums