SXSW Sydney has unveiled the first official artist announcement for the 2025 Music Festival, which returns from October 13–19. Known as the ultimate Asia-Pacific destination for music discovery, the festival champions emerging talent alongside global innovators shaping the future of music.

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Leading the international lineup is Manchester indie-rock experimentalist Jasmine 4.t, fresh from winning the prestigious Grulke Prize for Best Developing Act at SXSW® Austin 2025. Jasmine, the first artist signed to Phoebe Bridgers’ Saddest Factory label, released her debut album this year with co-production by all three BOYGENIUS members.

Also announced is Cardinals, the rising Irish rock outfit bringing their poetry-inflected punk to Sydney, and a genre-defying immersive showcase from Ristband (UK) and collaborators Pivots, blending MR technology with live music after their breakthrough SXSW Austin performance.

Celebrating Local Breakthroughs

Australia’s homegrown talent takes centre stage with a diverse and powerful lineup:

• Jamaica Moana – rapper, songwriter, creative director and ballroom icon
• RICEWINE – DIY lo-fi turned global alt-pop success
• Sacred Hearts – a Meanjin-based duo fusing post-punk, industrial and shoegaze
• JJ4K – raw and unapologetic rising hip-hop voice and co-founder of Relentless Records
• BADASSMUTHA – Githabul, Migunberri-Yugumbeh artist blending soul, reggae, and alt-pop
• Swapmeet – Kaurna Country’s chaotic, energetic indie-rock heroes

From Aotearoa New Zealand:

• Serebii – Auckland singer-songwriter and producer following his acclaimed sophomore album
• Tusekah – underground R&B and neo-soul artist known for her powerful live performances

And representing Asia:

• Suichu Spica 水中スピカ (Japan) – math rock with genre-fusing complexity
• Slowwves (Thailand) – beloved shoegaze/alt-rock group

A Proven Launchpad for Global Talent

SXSW Sydney has previously featured artists such as Jorja Smith, XG, Miss Kaninna, Nick Ward, Otoboke Beaver, and Voice of Baceprot, solidifying its place as the region’s most essential music discovery platform.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper commented:

“Hot on the heels of an incredible second year, SXSW Sydney 2025 is shaping up to present another powerful music experience. The NSW Government is proud to support an event that positions Sydney as a global hub for culture and innovation.”

In 2025, American Apparel joins as the Official Merchandise Partner, with the American Apparel House presenting a dedicated part of the Music Festival program.

Early Bird Passes Ending Soon

Pass prices rise after May 1st, so now’s the time to secure your spot at Asia-Pacific’s leading creative gathering. This year introduces more affordable early bird tiers than ever before — and for international attendees, enjoy 20% off all passes.

Get your SXSW Sydney 2025 pass

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