Crowded House to Headline Final Bluesfest in Byron Bay

In a poignant announcement, Bluesfest has revealed that its final lineup will be headlined by the iconic band Crowded House, known for their classic anthem "Don’t Dream It’s Over." The festival, which has been a staple of the Australian music scene for 35 years, will take place over the Easter long weekend in 2025 on farmland north of Byron Bay. This decision comes amid a wave of cancellations of music events, marking a significant moment in the festival's storied history. Festival director Peter Noble expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from music fans, promising an unforgettable farewell. "Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Let’s make the final Bluesfest one for the ages!" he stated, highlighting the emotional significance of the event. Alongside Crowded House, the lineup features singer-songwriter Vance Joy, psychedelic rockers Ocean Alley, and Tones and I, who will make her debut at the festival. The farewell event will also showcase Grammy winner Gary Clark Jr., soul artist Rag’n’Bone Man, and rising star Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram, among others. The festival has a rich legacy, having hosted music legends like BB King, Bob Dylan, and Paul Simon since its inception in 1990. The 2024 edition notably included rock legend Jimmy Barnes’ first performance post-heart surgery. However, the festival's closure is attributed to rising costs associated with staging live music events, alongside challenges posed by extreme weather and a declining ticket sales trend due to the increasing cost of living.