BIGSOUND returns to Brisbane with a jam-packed program and a new wave of artists
BIGSOUND is back this September, turning Fortitude Valley into a high-energy hub of live music and big ideas. From September 2–5, the premiere music-industry event will bring together 130 artists, 100 industry speakers, 70 conference sessions and 18 stages for a huge four days of discovery, connection and non-stop sounds. The event’s dynamic 2025 program has dropped – here’s what’s in store …
Teenage Joans. Image credit: Somefx
At the heart of the week is the BIGSOUND Festival – a three-night, all-access showcase of over 130 emerging artists performing across a walkable trail of 18 venues. With one ticket unlocking every stage, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure for live-music lovers, where you can follow the buzz, drift between sets and discover your next favourite act. This year’s line-up features the return of neo-soul powerhouse KAIIT, genre-blurring star WAFIA, indie-pop talent Azure Ryder, local favourite Hatchie, high-voltage rock outfit The Southern River Band, 12-year-old hip-hop prodigy Inkabee and plenty more – serving up a bold snapshot of where Australian music is headed.
In addition to its ticketed offerings, BIGSOUND also opens up to the public with a free program at the Brunswick Street Mall Stage. Located in the heart of the Valley, the stage will feature a curated line-up of new talent and surprise sets, inviting a wider audience into the BIGSOUND atmosphere – no wristband needed. Acts include Flamingo Pier, Sistas of Goolwal (featuring Akala Newman and BADASSMUTHA), and There’s A Tuesday, with performances running from September 2–4.
Be sure to visit The Goolwal Garden (The Sound Garden) and immerse yourself in Goolwal Goolwal – a powerful First Nations-led program of thought-provoking panels, electrifying performances and exclusive evening events. Entry is free until 5:30 pm daily, with ticketed showcases continuing into the night.
BIGSOUND 2024. Image: supplied
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By day, the BIGSOUND Conference takes over, drawing leading voices from across the global music industry. Delegates will rub shoulders with Coachella bookers, BBC Radio tastemakers, and legendary A&R executive Darcus Beese, best known for signing Amy Winehouse. With a program spanning speed networking, speeches and panels on everything from AI in music to sustainable touring, the conference delivers essential insights for artists, managers and industry professionals alike.
BIGSOUND Country returns in 2025 with a bigger presence and broader scope, shining a spotlight on the evolution of Australian country music. Supported by the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, this year’s program includes the BIGSOUND Country Showcase featuring live performances by Josie and Chloe Styler, the all-abilities Saddle Club! line-dancing workshop and a series of industry panel events.
For delegate pass holders, the BIGSOUND Special Events program offers exclusive experiences that fuse networking with celebration. This year’s highlights include the Live Nation ONES TO WATCH Showcase, Amazon Music Sessions at La La Land, the scenic BIGSOUND River Cruise, the ever-popular Oztix BIGSOUND Party and a massive Closing Night Party presented by The Tivoli.
Ready to dive in? Head to the BIGSOUND website to view the full program and to purchase festival tickets.
This article was written in partnership with our good friends at BIGSOUND.