Bluesfest 2025 - Day Four

Roshani

​Roshani's performance at Bluesfest 2025 was a captivating display of her multifaceted musical talents. The area around the busking stage was buzzing with excitement as she seamlessly blended soulful vocals with intricate guitar work, harmonica, and beatboxing. Her earth-shattering whistle tones and unique fusion of blues, folk, and electronic elements resonated deeply, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness her set. With her powerful stage presence and genre-defying sound, Roshani continues to solidify her reputation as one of Australia's most innovative artists.

Allison Russell

Allison Russell's return to Bluesfest in 2025 was a captivating showcase of her powerful voice and evocative storytelling. Performing with her Rainbow Coalition Band, she delivered a dynamic set that seamlessly blended folk, blues, and roots music. Russell's stage presence was magnetic, drawing the audience into her deeply personal narratives and social commentary. Her performance reaffirmed her status as a standout artist in the contemporary music scene.

Hussy Hicks

After a stirring rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ from the audience to Leesa, Hussy Hicks put on a standout performance at Bluesfest, showcasing their signature blend of folk, blues, country, and roots. Frontwomen Leesa Gentz and Julz Parker captivated the audience with their dynamic vocals and masterful guitar work. Their energetic and heartfelt performance reaffirmed why they are beloved festival favourites.

Missy Higgins

It's so wonderful to see Missy Higgins on the biggest of stages at Bluesfest. She's an artist we've grown up with, watched mature, develop and unflinchingly reveal herself with her beautiful songwriting. Tonight, her confidence, polish and creativity is on full display in a remarkable performance that not only delivers the fan favourites we have loved over the years, but eludes to an exciting new chapter. Her pure joy in the simple act of playing music is undeniable and we cannot help but be swept up in the happiness of expression. A special moment that felt so much more intimate than the reality shared by the massive crowd gathered.

Rag n Bone Man

Tonight, the UK singer with the unmistakable baritone brought his soulful tunes back to Bluesfest, where he was greeted with a very warm welcome from a tremendous crowd. His hulking 6'5" frame, covered in tattoos, belies the tender, emotional outpouring that he unleashes on that stage. He is softly spoken and humble at first, but once the show begins - he doesn't hold back - to say the guy has pipes is an understatement - pretty soon, he's taking us all to church. We're carried like twigs on a mighty river by his powerful vocal range and giving over to soaring music is such sweet surrender.

‍Chaka Khan

The icon herself, trailblazer, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and incomparable legend, Chaka Khan was the majestic finale on the Mojo stage - and what a way to go out! Showcasing 50 years in the industry, 10 Grammy awards and a career that shaped the landscape of American pop, soul, jazz, gospel and funk, Chaka was on fire, incredibly vivacious and unreasonably energetic. She has a infectious stage presence and pretty soon, the packed tent was all smiles and dancing in unison to her endless medley of hits. This performance was the perfect way to close out another magical Bluesfest.

Chaka Khan is not just surviving, she, much like this festival, is thriving. The years in the rear view mirror have only made her stronger, her cathatic passion for musical communion pushes her forward and her sensational legacy remains unfinished. I cannot wait to be back here next year!

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