
Byron Bay Bluesfest 2025 fourth wave announcement
Wednesday 15 January 2025
Bluesfest 2025 announces its fourth wave of artists. Headlined by R&B legend Chaka Khan in an exclusive performance, rock icons Toto, the timeless sound of Christopher Cross, the Polynesian vibes of Maoli, Clarence Bekker Band, Hussy Hicks, and Eric Stang.
Chaka Khan (A Celebration of 50+ years in music), is a ten-time Grammy winner and was recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Check out our Chaka Khan Video playlist
Chaka Khan has spent five decades captivating audiences with her vocal range and iconic tracks such as “I’m Every Woman” and “Ain’t Nobody.” Her career spans collaborations with legends, impactful theater performances, and ventures into various creative fields. Beyond her music, Chaka Khan’s philanthropic work and commitment to mental health advocacy have left an indelible mark on the world.
Joining Chaka Khan is Toto, one of the most enduring rock bands of the last five decades. Known for timeless anthems like “Africa,” “Hold The Line,” and “Rosanna,” Toto continues to captivate audiences across generations. With a career spanning over 50 million album sales, six billion streams across platforms, and a repertoire played millions of times daily on Spotify alone, Toto remains a musical powerhouse. Their members, including Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams, are renowned for their contributions to countless Grammy-winning albums, having won six Grammy’s in total. At Bluesfest, audiences can expect a masterclass in musicianship, with hits that have defined rock and roll history.
Christopher Cross, whose career began with an unprecedented sweep of five Grammy Awards for his debut album, brings his timeless melodies to Bluesfest. Known for hits like “Sailing,” “Ride Like the Wind,” and “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do),” Cross has sold over 10 million albums and earned an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and an Emmy nomination. With a career spanning more than four decades, he remains a master of crafting elegant, emotionally resonant songs. Christopher Cross’s set at Bluesfest will be a journey through decades of musical excellence, from his Grammy-winning debut to his celebrated recent releases.
Adding a Polynesian flair to the lineup is Maoli, hailed as Hawaii and Polynesia’s top independent commercial recording artist. Led by Glenn Awong, Maoli has taken their distinctive island sound across the globe, selling out tours in Hawaii, the U.S. New Zealand, and Australia. With award-winning albums like Sense of Purpose and headline performances at festivals such as Cali Roots, Maoli’s blend of reggae and island music will bring a fresh and vibrant energy to Bluesfest 2025. Maoli’s upcoming Australian tour this February is sold out.

