Why Great Southern Nights Is The Initiative You Need To Get Around

Great Southern Nights is back for its fourth year, bringing a vibrant celebration of live music to regional and metropolitan venues across New South Wales.

The initiative has since become a vital part of Australia’s music scene, a direct response to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. To understand the significance of Great Southern Nights, The Music caught up with Lynne Small, the Chief Operating Officer at ARIA, who has played a pivotal role in bringing the event to life.

"GSN was initially a direct response to COVID. Started in 2020, it was a big departure,” Small reveals.

“In 2020, we put on 1100 gigs across NSW. With all the COVID restrictions, all the performances had to be seated. The challenges of lockdowns and restrictions created an atmosphere where artists, crew, and venues were all struggling.

“Despite the obstacles, Great Southern Nights succeeded in helping to keep the industry alive, offering much-needed work to musicians and venues when the future seemed uncertain.”

“In that first flurry in 2020, it was because we were all working from home, we were able to do it," Small adds with a clearly wry smile.

The team’s dedication to help keep the industry afloat created a spark that would grow into an initiative of enormous importance—a lifeline, really. 

Fast forward to the present day, and Great Southern Nights has evolved into a major platform for emerging talent and well-established names alike. “GSN is more important than ever. It’s about supporting the music industry ecosystem,” Small emphasises.

The initiative is about more than just putting on gigs; it’s about sustaining and growing the entire music infrastructure. Artists have financial assistance to explore new areas. Audiences are given the opportunity to see live performances in places they might never have considered before.

The initiative provides a unique platform for both up-and-coming acts and seasoned artists, and this mix of talent creates a fresh, dynamic atmosphere. It’s not just about the music—it's about creating connections and fostering the love of live performance in communities that may not typically get a chance to experience such high-calibre shows.

One of the key aspects of Great Southern Nights is its ability to bring artists to new audiences.

“I think the industry appreciates the initiative. We’re in year four,” says Small. “Brent Lean, the GSN Program Manager, has a relationship and a process to engage with the agents. We want to have a broad program and an opportunity for artists to consider places they would not otherwise go to, and Brent’s influence shapes that. That’s a strength of the program.”

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This willingness to explore new markets has been pivotal in bringing the initiative to new areas, introducing Australian talent to venues and towns that otherwise might not have had the chance to host major artists.

The initiatives focus on regional towns and smaller cities has also resulted in what Small refers to as “road trips” for fans and artists alike.

“I’ve done it myself. We partner with Destination NSW, and we’re mindful of their priorities in terms of travel. If you look at the program, Kate Miller-Heidke is playing in Bathurst, King Stingray in Newcastle. All sorts of things in all sorts of places. I took a trip to Dubbo for Great Southern Nights last year. It’s a great thing to do for the start of autumn.”

In a way, Great Southern Nights has become a kind of musical pilgrimage, drawing fans from across the state to experience incredible live performances in unique settings. And for artists, it’s an opportunity to reach new audiences and expand their fanbase.

“We have 250 venue gigs. We deal directly with venues that put on live music. They need to feel supported,” Small explains.

For venues—especially smaller, independent ones—the ability to offer live music and provide a space for artists is crucial for their survival. Great Southern Nights doesn’t just benefit performers, but it also helps keep the venues alive and thriving.

“I don’t see that need going away. We had a three-year commitment for the incoming government. It’s been a successful program, and I hope it continues to have support,” she adds, noting the long-term benefits that are helping to revive the local live music scene after years of hardship.

The Artists and Gigs You Can’t Miss

The diversity and talent showcased at Great Southern Nights is a testament to the thriving music culture in Australia. From folk to rock, indie to experimental, there’s something for every music lover to enjoy. Here’s a list of the top 10 gigs you absolutely can’t miss this year.

Emily Wurramara

Emily Wurramara is one of those artists who has a voice that just grabs you by the heart. I remember the first time I saw her perform Black Smoke live, the whole room fell silent. It’s haunting, powerful, and beautiful.

Her mix of folk, soul, and traditional sounds creates a unique experience. Her track Milyakburra also stands out for its reflective, storytelling vibe—her ability to mix personal and cultural narratives is unmatched. Seeing Emily live is like hearing her soul speak, and I guarantee you’ll feel something deep.

Miss Kaninna

Miss Kaninna’s blend of electronic-soul and indie-pop is a force to be reckoned with. I caught her at a small gig last year, and the way she controlled the crowd was mind-blowing. Her track Dawg In Me hit me hard. The combination of slick beats and her smooth vocals makes her songs incredibly addictive. There’s a certain gritty authenticity to her performances that makes her live show unmissable. If you’re looking for something that feels fresh and experimental, she’s your go-to.

Gut Health

Gut Health’s live set is an explosion of energy—grunge, punk, and rock that makes you want to lose control. Their track Juvenile Retention is the perfect example of the chaos they bring to the stage. I saw them at a dive bar last year, and the crowd went wild.

Their unrelenting energy and raw sound are a blast to experience. If you’re in the mood to headbang and sweat it out with the crowd, Gut Health will make you feel alive. Don’t even think about standing still at one of their shows.

Teenage Dads

These guys are ridiculously fun to watch. Teenage Dads’ sound is infectious—think bouncy indie-pop with a retro twist.

I remember seeing them play live, and the entire venue turned into one big dance floor. Their set is high-energy, and their chemistry with the crowd is unreal. Their quirky charm and ability to whip up a good time with their songs like Boyfriend make them an essential gig to see. They’ll definitely leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Fanning Dempsey National Park

I’ll admit, Fanning Dempsey National Park’s live show was a bit of a surprise for me. Their music is a mix of indie, rock, and experimental, and they’ve got this real layered sound that’s difficult to pin down.

Their track The Deluge hit me hard during their set—there’s something so ethereal about it when you hear it live. The way they transition from mellow to explosive is something you have to witness to really get it. If you’re up for something a bit different, this band will take you on a journey you won’t forget.

Matt Corby

I’ve been a fan of Matt Corby for years, but seeing him live was something else entirely. His voice is even more impressive in person, and his ability to connect with the crowd is second to none.

I’ll never forget the goosebumps I got the first time I heard Brother live. It’s one of those songs that pulls every emotion to the surface, and Matt’s performance made it even more powerful. His set is always a blend of introspective moments and powerful energy, with tracks like Resolution and Monday taking centre stage. If you’re after an emotional and moving experience, Matt’s your man.

Sesame Girl

If you like your gigs a little dreamy and atmospheric, Sesame Girl is a must-see. I caught her at a small venue, and her live show was like floating through a sonic dream. Her blend of indie, pop, and electronic feels effortless, yet so captivating. There’s something about her presence on stage—quiet but powerful—that pulls you in. If you love seeing artists create a mood rather than just a performance, Sesame Girl will leave you in awe.

Devaura

Devaura’s alt-pop vibe is all about layers and emotion. I saw her play VENICE live last year, and it was like the whole room stopped to listen. Her vocals are pure and powerful, and her live show has this intimate, almost personal quality to it. It feels like she’s telling you a story with every song. She’s definitely one of the rising stars in the Aussie scene. If you love soul-searching, reflective music, Devaura’s set will be an unforgettable experience.

Ngaiire

Ngaiire is a powerhouse, both vocally and artistically. The first time I saw her perform Diggin, I was absolutely floored. Her voice is this incredible, rich mix of R&B, soul, and electronic that you can’t quite put into a box. But it’s when she gets on stage that the magic happens—her stage presence is electric. Watching her command the room while belting out tracks like Once will give you chills. If you’re after a live show that’s as much about the performer’s soul as it is about the music, Ngaiire is a must-see.

Teenage Joans

Teenage Joans are all about punk energy with a modern twist. Their track Ice Cream has this perfect mix of attitude and melody that makes you want to jump around the entire time.

I saw them last year at a local festival, and the crowd was absolutely buzzing. They’ve got this raw energy that’s contagious, and their performance of Something About Being Sixteen had everyone screaming the lyrics back at them. If you’re looking for a high-octane, feel-good gig with an edge, Teenage Joans will deliver.

When asked about what she hopes Great Southern Nights offers to musicians, Small takes her time before answering. She clearly cares about what comes next. In a way, it’s her and ARIA’s baby. 

“It’s about taking artists to audiences, trying to build that connection and love of live music. So, it can support artist development, the money flows down to the crew and everyone who works with the artist. And the sustainability of venues. That’s what we’re trying to support.” 

Great Southern Nights truly is a lifeline for the music industry, a testament to the power of live performance, and a celebration of the incredible talent that Australia has to offer.

So, whether you’re after soul, punk, or indie magic, Great Southern Nights has something for you. The Australian music scene is coming back, and these artists are some of the finest examples of just how diverse and exciting it can be. Get your tickets, grab your mates, and get ready to experience some of the best live music the country has to offer. I’ll see you out there, yeah?

Great Southern Nights will offer 300+ gigs across Sydney and NSW from 21 March - 6 April 2025. You can find more information about the shows via the Great Southern Nights website.