Country Music Festival Strummingbird unveils Sunshine Coast lineup

Headliner Jelly Roll will head down under for Strummingbird, marking his first-ever visit here. Global sensation Shaboozey will also make his Australian debut at Strummingbird, alongside the likes of Treaty Oak Revival, James Johnston, Kaylee Bell, Matt Hansen, Hot Dub Time Machine with a rock and country-centric set, plus The Dreggs and many more.

Hitting the open road from October, Strummingbird kicks off on the Sunshine Coast at the Kawana Sports Precinct, Bokarina on Saturday 25 October before heading to New South Wales and Western Australia.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 3 Councillor Tim Burns said he was thrilled about the Strummingbird Festival’s line-up, which would bring international artists and a vibrant country music vibe to the region.

“Hosting this event at the Kawana Sports Precinct highlights our region’s ability to deliver world-class entertainment and create unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors,” Cr Burns said.

“As the only Queensland stop for the festival, we’re expecting music lovers from across the state and beyond the border, to make their way to the Sunshine Coast.

“New Zealanders are loving the convenience of direct flights into the Sunshine Coast, and events like Strummingbird give them even more reason to visit.

“The festival offers a chance to experience world-class music while exploring everything our Sunshine Coast Biosphere has to offer, from stunning natural landscapes to vibrant local culture.

“What a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate live music on a global scale.”

Artist rundown

At the top of his game, multi-award-winning, 4x Grammy-nominated artist Jelly Roll’s latest album Beautifully Broken debuted at No.1 on the Billboard Top 200 charts in 2024, concluding his most successful year yet. Beyond music, Jelly Roll has built a stalwart community of fans around the world through the release of his record-breaking ABC News documentary Save Me. He tops the bill alongside one of the most exciting voices redefining modern country, Shaboozey, who blends Southern roots with hip-hop swagger and has truly propelled to global virality with his hit song “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”. Last year, he made history with the track, tying the record for the most weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, holding the top spot for an incredible 19 weeks. The track’s runaway success has cemented him as a trailblazer in the new wave of country, blending genre-defying influences with undeniable star power.

Texan country rock outfit Treaty Oak Revival are set to deliver their raw blend of Southern rock and punk edge to Sunshine Coast and Newcastle. While our very own James Johnston - whose debut single “Raised Like That” was the first by any Australian-based country artist to reach 1 million streams - will bring his unique style of modern country to all locations. A rising voice in country pop globally, Kaylee Bell, is also set to take the Strummingbird stage. From small-town New Zealand to the 'Most Streamed Country Artist for Australasia’ with over 40 million streams, Bell is one to watch. 

Few embody country music quite like Queensland native Wade Forster. A professional rodeo cowboy, he lives the life he sings about, making his addition to the program like boots on red dirt. Empowering singer-songwriter Julia Cole will also grace the stage, delivering her signature blend of soulful vocals and heartfelt storytelling. Rachael Fahim is another standout addition to the Strummingbird lineup, consistently ranking as one of the most-streamed Australian female country artists over the past three years, second only to Kasey Chambers. The Jack Wharff Band will showcase their striking blend of bluegrass, country and rock - a true salt-of-the-earth group that’s not to be missed. 

American singer-songwriter Matt Hansen will perform his sultry indie folk, complementing an authentic dose of country flair from Nashville star Drew Baldridge, who will make his Australian debut at Strummingbird.

Rounding out the lineup across all cities are local favourites, folk duo The Dreggs, dynamic charmers Zac & George and rising singer/songwriter Denvah.

Last drinks and the final dance across all dates will be held at the Late Night Riot - think country town pub where anything goes and you can let your hair down. Homegrown party favourite Hot Dub Time Machine will take festival-goers on a musical journey through time with a country and rock-and-roll twist in Sunshine Coast and Perth, while country guru and notorious party starter Y.O.G.A. (Reuben Styles) will keep you bootscootin’ in Newcastle until the very end.

From Saloon Steps to Bull Rides

Beyond the two live music stages, Strummingbird will deliver all the classic honky tonk vibes with a true-blue spin. Saddle up for a mechanical bull ride, or get rowdy amongst the Howdy Howdy Saloon for line dancing with Maddison Glover, BBQ and cold bevs, plus merch and fashion - everything that celebrates our one-of-a-kind Aussie country culture.

Strummingbird follows in the footsteps of Kicks Entertainment’s other world-class events, including the nationally-beloved Spilt Milk. Whether you’re raised on country or just love a good guitar riff, Strummingbird welcomes all.