Bluesfest Drops All-Australian Artist Announcement Starring Hilltop Hoods, The Cat Empire & More

The final Bluesfest Byron Bay has grown with a massive second artist announcement that’s all-Australian.

Led by hip-hop group Hilltop Hoods, Bluesfest maintains the musical diversity that’s defined its recent events, also locking in Xavier Rudd, the prolific John Butler, beloved The Cat Empire, country royalty Kasey Chambers, and Melbourne Ska Orchestra.

Beyond the top-billed acts added to the line-up today, Bluesfest will also feature C.W. Stoneking, Budjerah, the Lachy Doley Group, Ash Grunwald, Kim Churchill, Miss Kaninna, The Beards, Velvet Trip, FOOLS, ROSHANI, Sweet Talk, and The Memphis Three featuring Fiona Boyes, Jimi Hocking and Frank Sultana.

According to a press release, an international artist announcement is coming soon.

In a statement, Bluesfest founder Peter Noble said of today’s announcement, “First and foremost, I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the incredible outpouring of support following the announcement of our final festival.

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“It’s been truly humbling to see how much Bluesfest means to so many of you. While the future remains uncertain, I am encouraged by the petition that’s been raised to keep the festival going by our state member of parliament. There’s real hope that with your continued support and the backing of our community, we might just keep the Bluesfest legacy alive for generations to come.”

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Discussing the all-Australian announcement, Noble continued, “While this line-up focuses on our homegrown talent, it’s still a strong Blues and Roots announcement, staying true to the heart of what Bluesfest has always been about.

“I’m thrilled to welcome back some of our all-time favourites. You can’t say no to artists who have helped shape this festival over the years, including Hilltop Hoods, returning after a 20-year gap and how can we be doing a best of Bluesfest without Xavier Rudd, John Butler, The Cat Empire and the incredible Kasey Chambers, alongside some rising Australian stars who represent the future of our music scene.

“This mix of legendary performers and up-and-coming talent is what makes this announcement so special and uniquely ours.”

More “incredible acts” will be announced soon – stay tuned for more news from Bluesfest.

Last month, Bluesfest revealed its first artist announcement for its final festival, including Crowded House, Vance Joy, Tones & I, Gary Clark Jr, Allison Russell, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Pierce Brothers, WILSN, and more. Last week, Noble stated that the festival is “worth fighting for.”