September, 2025

JamFest is Your Ultimate Destination for Festival Music, 24/7 on TuneIn & Tonight on JamFest is What is Hip?!

Tonight’s feature on JamFest is “What is Hip?!”, airing Sundays around noon. This show is a deep dive into New Orleans-style music, delivering the vibrant rhythms and soulful sounds of the Crescent City straight to your ears. Listeners can expect timeless classics from legendary icons such as Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Alan Toussaint, Galactic, and The Radiators. The show doesn’t just replay hits—it celebrates the cultural heartbeat of New Orleans, exploring the history, improvisation, and energy that make the city a musical landmark. For anyone wanting to experience the essence of Mardi Gras in their living room, “What is Hip?!” is a must-listen.

For music lovers, festival fans, and live performance enthusiasts, JamFest is more than just an internet radio station—it’s a full-blown celebration of the festival experience, brought directly to your ears. Broadcasting exclusively on TuneIn, JamFest delivers a curated mix of live performances, genre explorations, and tributes to the global festival scene, all designed to make listeners feel like they’re front and center at the world’s greatest music events.

A Weekly Schedule That Brings Festivals Home

JamFest’s programming is as diverse as the festivals it celebrates, featuring shows that span multiple genres, eras, and performance styles. Whether you’re a devoted New Orleans music fan, a bluegrass enthusiast, or an EDM dancefloor regular, there’s a show for you.

What is Hip?! – Sundays around noon, this show dives into the rich tapestry of New Orleans-style music. Expect legendary artists like Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Alan Toussaint, Galactic, and The Radiators to bring the Crescent City’s vibrant rhythms right to your home.
Project Reggaeologist – On Sundays, explore reggae’s past, present, and future. From icons like Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Steel Pulse, and Aswad to rising global talent, this show also celebrates major festival performances from events like Reggae SumFest and Reggae Sunsplash.
NewGrass Radio – Mondays are for bluegrass lovers. JamFest showcases live performances and new releases from acts like Old Crow Medicine Show, alongside NPR’s “All Things Considered Live” concerts, illustrating the evolving sound of modern bluegrass.
Live Nuggets – Tuesday nights transport listeners into historic live concert archives. From Grateful Dead classics to legendary Phish and Jane’s Addiction performances, every episode is a journey through iconic live music moments.
NRN (New Releases Now) Radio Show – Wednesdays feature a full-length classic live album alongside the latest music from emerging artists. It’s the perfect mix for those who want both nostalgia and fresh sounds in one sitting.
Festival Night – Thursdays celebrate the festival experience directly. JamFest streams live festival performances from around the world, creating an authentic festival vibe no matter where you are.
Club Night – Fridays are for the night owls. From 10 PM to 2 AM EST, JamFest brings the pulse of EDM and remix culture from the world’s top festival stages right into your living room.
Live Phish Dance Party – Saturday evenings at 7 PM, get ready to groove with the Live Phish Dance Party, a fan-favorite event that captures the spirit of one of the most dedicated festival fan communities.
Sunday Spunday & Gospel Music – JamFest extends the weekend into Sunday morning with live sets and New Orleans Gospel music from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM EST, ensuring the weekend winds down with soulful, uplifting vibes.

Bringing the Festival Experience to You

JamFest’s core mission is simple but powerful: to replicate the festival atmosphere for listeners at home. Every show is designed to introduce new artists, highlight live performances, and create a communal listening experience that mirrors the excitement of being on-site at a major festival.

Whether you’re discovering the next big reggae sensation, diving deep into bluegrass innovations, or reliving a historic live concert, JamFest ensures your playlist is never ordinary. By blending emerging talent with iconic legends, the station creates a continuous celebration of music’s diverse and evolving landscape.

Tune In and Join the Celebration

Streaming exclusively on TuneIn, JamFest is the ultimate destination for anyone passionate about festival culture. From live sets to genre-specific deep dives, the station offers a 24/7 gateway to the energy, excitement, and joy of festivals worldwide. If you crave music that transcends playlists and delivers an experience, JamFest is your front-row ticket—no matter where you are.

Sunset Radio Network: Today’s Live Music Lineup Across Every Station – JamFest, Live Jam, MetalMania Live, Tomorrowland Live, Dead Set Live, The Improv Cafe’, Electric Daisy Carnival Live, Ultra Music Festival Live

The Sunset Radio Network continues to bring live music experiences directly to listeners around the globe, offering everything from jazz and rock to EDM

Source: Sunset Radio Network: Today’s Live Music Lineup Across Every Station – JamFest, Live Jam, MetalMania Live, Tomorrowland Live, Dead Set Live, The Improv Cafe’, Electric Daisy Carnival Live, Ultra Music Festival Live

JamFest on TuneIn: Your Ultimate Destination for Diverse and Unforgettable Music Programming

JamFest is your go-to source for the best in live music, exclusive DJ sets, vibrant genres, and a tribute to the festival culture that brings music lovers together worldwide. Whether you’re tuning in for heart-pumping EDM, soul-stirring reggae, funky gospel, or the latest new releases, JamFest has something for every music enthusiast. Broadcast exclusively on TuneIn, JamFest brings the festival experience right to your home, no matter where you are, with weekly shows like What is Hip?!, Project Reggaeologist, and more.

Each night, JamFest takes you on a musical journey, showcasing live sets from the world’s top festivals, fresh releases, and unique genre-specific experiences. From energetic DJ sets to deep dives into New Orleans’ rich musical culture, we curate a diverse range of programming that will make your day—and night—special.

JamFest Lineup Tonight & Sunday: A Musical Adventure Every Night

Club Night: Saturday Night Fever

If you’re a fan of electronic music, Saturday nights are for you. Club Night on JamFest is your exclusive weekly destination for everything EDM, from pulse-pounding DJ mixes and in-studio remixes to live sets from the world’s biggest music festivals. Broadcast from 10 PM to 2 AM EST every Saturday, this show celebrates the heart and soul of club culture, featuring everything from house to techno to trance.

Get ready for a night of non-stop beats and high-energy vibes as JamFest showcases some of the most iconic club and dance music from legendary events like Tomorrowland, Electric Daisy Carnival, and Ultra Music Festival. If you’re looking to dance into the night, Club Night is where the party’s at.

Sunday Spunday: The Ultimate Dance Party

The party doesn’t stop at Club Night—it rolls right into Sunday Spunday. Beginning at 2 AM EST and continuing all the way into Sunday morning until about 9 AM EST, Spunday offers an extended dance journey that’s perfect for those who want to keep the energy high all night long. Whether you’re recovering from a wild Saturday or getting ready for a lazy Sunday afternoon, this show ensures your weekend ends on a high note with back-to-back club anthems and festival hits.

NPR News Now: Stay Informed in Just Five Minutes

For those who like to stay informed but have limited time, JamFest brings you NPR News Now every hour. With a quick, concise five-minute update, this show delivers all the essential news from politics to entertainment, business to sports. It’s the perfect quick hit for busy listeners, providing a comprehensive snapshot of what’s happening in the world without the need for long-form news programs. Whether you’re driving, working, or just need to catch up on the latest, NPR News Now offers a convenient way to stay in the loop.

The Gospel Lunch: A Celebration of NOLA Style

Nothing captures the soul of New Orleans like its music—and The Gospel Lunch on JamFest serves it up in style every Sunday from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM. This show is a lively, upbeat celebration of New Orleans’ unique blend of gospel, jazz, blues, funk, and soul. Hosted by seasoned DJs steeped in the musical traditions of the Big Easy, The Gospel Lunch offers an eclectic mix of uplifting gospel choirs, brass band energy, and heartwarming solos. It’s the perfect way to spend your Sunday afternoon, whether you’re a long-time fan of NOLA’s musical heritage or just discovering its infectious rhythms.

Expect insightful commentary, artist spotlights, and historical tidbits that help you appreciate the music even more. From gospel-infused ballads to the unmistakable sound of a New Orleans brass section, The Gospel Lunch transports you to the vibrant streets of the city where music is an integral part of everyday life.

Project Reggaeologist: Your Reggae Fix

If you’re a reggae lover, look no further than Project Reggaeologist on JamFest. This non-stop radio show features the best in reggae, dancehall, roots, ska, and world music, along with live performances from iconic reggae festivals around the world. Every week, Project Reggaeologist serves up fresh tracks from established reggae legends as well as up-and-coming artists from the global reggae scene.

From the soulful sounds of Bob Marley to the fresh, new vibes of rising stars, this show showcases the full spectrum of reggae music. Tune in for the latest albums, exclusive studio versions, and live festival performances that make reggae music a powerful force for peace, love, and unity. It’s an essential listen for anyone who wants to stay connected to reggae culture.

Special Shows and Collaborations: A Global Music Experience

JamFest isn’t just about curated playlists—it’s about experiencing the world’s top festivals from your living room. The Live Nuggets show, airing on Tuesday nights, takes listeners on a historical journey through legendary live performances, while Festival Night on Thursdays showcases live music from festivals all over the globe. From the massive crowds at Tomorrowland to the underground vibes of smaller gatherings, JamFest covers the full range of live music experiences.

Whether it’s Dead Set Live, MetalMania Live, or Tomorrowland Live, you can feel like you’re right there in the crowd. Each show brings the raw energy of live music straight to your ears.

JamFest: A Memory of a Lifetime

At its core, JamFest is all about celebrating the unforgettable moments that music can create. Our shows are designed to transport you to the heart of global music festivals, whether it’s the electrifying beats of a DJ set, the spiritual uplift of NOLA gospel, or the soulful rhythms of reggae. We promise to make your day special and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tune in on TuneIn to JamFest for:

Club Night: EDM and remixes live from the world’s best festivals, 10 PM to 2 AM EST, every Saturday.
Sunday Spunday: The dance party that never ends, continuing into Sunday morning from 2 AM EST.
NPR News Now: Quick, concise, and essential updates on global events, every hour.
Gospel Lunch: A celebration of NOLA style gospel, jazz, funk, and soul, Sundays from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM.
Project Reggaeologist: The best in reggae, dancehall, roots, and ska, every week.

JamFest brings the festival experience to your ears, 24/7. Whether you’re at home, in the car, or anywhere in between, JamFest is your soundtrack to a life filled with unforgettable music.

The Global Music Festival Scene: A World United by Sound

Music festivals are no longer just gatherings—they’re cultural pilgrimages. From grassy fields and city parks to desert valleys and coastal fortresses, the global music festival scene is thriving like never before, uniting fans across continents with the promise of live sound, shared energy, and once-in-a-lifetime performances.

North America: The Epicenter of Mega-Festivals

North America has carved out its own festival identity with genre-spanning giants and intimate niche gatherings alike.

Coachella (California, USA): A pop-culture powerhouse, Coachella blends chart-topping artists with rising indie acts, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Colorado Desert.
Bonnaroo (Tennessee, USA): Known for its sprawling campsites and genre-diverse lineups, Bonnaroo thrives on its community spirit and marathon jam sessions.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (Louisiana, USA): A true celebration of roots, culture, and history, mixing jazz, gospel, funk, and beyond.
Osheaga (Montreal, Canada): Canada’s flagship festival, where international acts converge with a distinctly Montréal vibe.
Newport Folk Festival (Rhode Island, USA): A heritage-driven event that continues to evolve—where tradition meets surprise guests and genre-bending sets.

From massive desert stages to storied folk roots, North America’s festival scene thrives on both spectacle and soul.

Europe: Heritage Meets Innovation

Europe’s festivals are legendary for their scale, history, and eclectic lineups.

Glastonbury (England): The crown jewel, blending activism, art, and unforgettable performances across its endless fields.
Tomorrowland (Belgium): A global hub for electronic music, known for elaborate stage designs that feel like stepping into another universe.
Roskilde (Denmark): One of the oldest and largest festivals in Europe, run as a non-profit with a strong social mission.
Primavera Sound (Spain): Celebrated for its cutting-edge curation, balancing indie innovation with headliner prestige.
Sziget (Hungary): A week-long “festival island” on the Danube, where art installations, global acts, and community intersect.

In Europe, festivals aren’t just events—they’re experiences where history, activism, and music intertwine.

South America: Rhythm, Passion, and Vibrance

Festivals in South America pulse with intensity, color, and rhythm that reflect the continent’s cultural heartbeat.

Rock in Rio (Brazil): A festival brand so iconic it’s now global, but its Rio roots bring unparalleled passion.
Lollapalooza Chile, Argentina & Brazil: The Lolla brand thrives here, delivering massive international headliners with local energy.
Festival Estéreo Picnic (Colombia): Bogotá’s biggest festival, a rising star on the global circuit.
Cosquín Rock (Argentina): A celebration of rock’s enduring power, drawing crowds in the hundreds of thousands.

In South America, the crowd becomes part of the performance—singing every lyric, dancing with abandon, and fueling the fire on stage.

Asia: A Rising Force in the Global Scene

Asia’s festival culture has exploded in recent years, blending international imports with unique regional flavors.

Fuji Rock (Japan): Nestled in the mountains, it’s as much a nature retreat as a festival, famed for its eco-conscious ethos.
Sunburn Festival (India): One of the world’s largest electronic music festivals, putting EDM firmly on Asia’s map.
Clockenflap (Hong Kong): A genre-diverse, art-infused event with stunning harbor views.
ZoukOut (Singapore): A beachfront electronic celebration, combining nightlife with festival spectacle.
Storm Festival (China): A fast-growing player in the EDM world, showcasing China’s appetite for big-scale productions.

Asia’s scene represents growth and innovation, bridging tradition and modernity in captivating ways.

Africa: Rhythm of the Roots

Africa’s music festivals are a powerful blend of heritage and modern soundscapes, highlighting both global stars and regional artistry.

Cape Town International Jazz Festival (South Africa): Dubbed “Africa’s Grandest Gathering,” with a reputation for world-class jazz and crossover acts.
Lake of Stars (Malawi): A lakeside festival blending African and international artists, community projects, and cultural exchange.
Bushfire (Eswatini): A socially conscious event where art, activism, and music merge.
Afrochella (Ghana): A vibrant celebration of African music, fashion, and culture—recently rebranded as AfroFuture to reflect its global reach.

Africa’s festivals carry a heartbeat of history and a vision for the future, spotlighting the continent as a rising cultural leader.

Oceania: Island Energy and Indie Innovation

Australia and New Zealand bring their own laid-back yet electric approach to the global circuit.

Splendour in the Grass (Australia): A mainstay for indie and alternative fans.
Byron Bay Bluesfest (Australia): A soulful event with roots and blues at its core.
Laneway Festival (Australia & New Zealand): Known for breaking indie acts before they hit the global stage.
Rhythm & Vines (New Zealand): A festival that welcomes the new year with music and vineyards.

In Oceania, festivals often feel like a mix of nature, community, and discovery, with intimate vibes even in large-scale events.

Why the Global Festival Scene Thrives

Diversity of Sound: Every genre—from bluegrass to EDM—has its place.
Cultural Exchange: Festivals spotlight not only music but art, food, and traditions from around the world.
Community: The shared experience of live music remains a unifying force, transcending borders.
Innovation: From eco-conscious design to immersive digital livestreams, festivals continue to evolve.

Final Note: A Passport Through Music

The global festival scene is more than just a calendar of events—it’s a passport. Each festival offers not only world-class performances but a chance to step into another culture, another community, another rhythm. Whether you’re dancing under desert stars, swaying in a coastal breeze, or camping out in a muddy field, one truth rings clear: music is the world’s most powerful connector.

New Releases Now (NRN): Your Gateway to the Top Songs and Albums of the Week

Unveiling the Enchantment: A Very Special Handpicked Release

Every week, music lovers everywhere wait for that spark—that moment when the newest drop from their favorite artist reminds them why music is more than just sound. New Releases Now (NRN) is your front-row seat to those moments, curating the most essential albums and singles that deserve your attention right now.

This week, NRN unveils something extraordinary: a handpicked new release that transcends expectations. It’s not just another entry in the endless stream of new music—it’s a carefully crafted statement, a deeply personal project that feels tailor-made for the fans who have been waiting.

More Than Music: A Journey for the Listener

From the opening notes, this release sets the tone for a journey that is equal parts emotional, imaginative, and unforgettable. Each track lands like a cinematic scene, pulling you into landscapes of longing, joy, heartbreak, and triumph.

The melodies aren’t just hooks; they’re brushstrokes painting the soundtrack of your week. The lyrics aren’t just rhymes; they’re intimate confessions, whispered secrets between artist and audience. Listening feels less like consuming a record and more like sharing in a private moment of truth.

Craft, Commitment, and Connection

What makes this new release stand out isn’t just the music itself—it’s the intention behind it. The production shimmers with meticulous detail, each arrangement built to bring out the artist’s vision in its purest form. Vocals carry not just melody, but raw emotion. The performances feel lived-in, authentic, and deeply resonant.

This is the mark of an artist who isn’t phoning it in but pushing boundaries—striving to create something that endures. It’s that rare kind of album that rewards repeat listens, revealing new layers and nuances every time.

Why NRN Matters

In a music landscape flooded with constant releases, NRN cuts through the noise by spotlighting the records that matter most. It’s not about chasing trends—it’s about finding the songs and albums that actually stick, the ones that connect.

NRN is more than a playlist. It’s your curated guide to discovery, ensuring you never miss the magic of a release like this one. Whether it’s a chart-topping icon redefining their sound or an emerging voice offering something fresh, NRN is where the week’s best stories in music begin.

Gratitude and Discovery

At its core, this latest release is about gratitude—between artist and fan, between music and listener. Gratitude for the craft, for the journey, for the chance to share in something bigger than ourselves.

And that’s the promise of NRN each week: to not just share songs, but to open doors to experiences, connections, and stories waiting to be told through music.

The Takeaway

So plug in, press play, and let this week’s handpicked masterpiece take you where you need to go. Because with New Releases Now, every week is a chance to discover not just what’s new, but what’s truly essential.

✨ NRN: The enchantment of music, delivered weekly.

Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros at The Capitol Theatre: A Storied Residency in Westchester

Venue with Legacy

Nestled in Westchester County, the Capitol Theatre is no ordinary concert hall. Built in 1926 by renowned architect Thomas W. Lamb, this historic movie palace turned music venue has hosted legends—from Pink Floyd and the Grateful Dead to Janis Joplin, who famously debuted her “Mercedes Benz” here Wikipedia.

A Resonant Return

In early 2023, Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros featuring The Wolfpack returned to the beloved venue for a four-night winter run—February 7, 8, 10, and 11—bringing an electrifying blend of his Grateful Dead roots and fresh, orchestral-jam arrangements The Grateful Web Atwood Magazine. These shows were also available as livestreams, extending the magic to fans around the globe bobweir.net.

The Holiday Run: Five Nights of Musical Brilliance

Fast forward to December 2023—Weir returned for a festive five-night holiday residency (December 12, 13, 15, 16 & 17)—one of the venue’s largest residencies of the year NYS Music Shore Fire Media Pollstar News.

Night One featured special guests: legendary jazz bassist Ron Carter and saxophonist Kenny Brooks joined in for stirring renditions, including a jazzy “Only a River” and a gripping encore of Black Muddy River L4LM.
Night Three brought a warm, festive touch. Weir opened solo with “Peggy-O,” delivering a reflective and intimate performance. The Wolfpack—featuring strings, brass, and pedal steel—augmented mid-show, turning the evening into a musical gift box for the fans NYS Music.
Final Night (Dec 17) delivered no-repeat sets peppered with deep cuts and beloved standards. A special appearance by Omar Hakim on drums added to the celebratory mood as the residency capped off with songs like Morning Dew and Brokedown Palace L4LM Internet Archive.

Why It Mattered

This residency wasn’t just another series of shows—it felt like a gathering of old friends and new possibilities. Reviewers noted that ending the 2023 run with “One More Saturday Night” left the audience feeling like they’d experienced something truly special Atwood Magazine. The synergy between Bobby, the stellar Wolf Bros lineup—Don Was (bass), Jay Lane (drums), Jeff Chimenti (keys), Barry Sless (pedal steel)—and the orchestral Wolfpack created a musical tapestry rich with soul, improvisation, and emotional depth Atwood Magazine The Grateful Web thecapitoltheatre.com.

A Timeless Legacy Continues

After more than 30 performances at the venue—including 13 with the Grateful Dead back in the early ’70s—Bobby Weir’s return to The Capitol Theatre carries a full-circle weight. It’s not just a show—it’s history, joy, and a little bit of that Grateful Dead spirit alive and kicking in Westchester thecapitoltheatre.com Wikipedia.

In Summary

Where: The historic Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY (capacity ~1,800) Wikipedia.
When:
- Winter 2023: Feb 7, 8, 10, & 11 (streamed)
- Holiday 2023: Dec 12, 13, 15, 16, & 17 (five-night residency)
Highlights:
- Orchestral jam fusion with The Wolfpack
- Guest appearances by Ron Carter, Kenny Brooks, Omar Hakim
- Setlists spanning Grateful Dead, RatDog, solo work, and surprise covers
- Crafted as one-of-a-kind nights—no repeats across the residency

Bobby Weir’s nights at The Capitol weren’t just concerts—they were celebrations of legacy, reinvention, and storytelling through song. Let me know if you’d like setlist breakdowns, audience reactions, or behind-the-scenes highlights next!

Newport Folk Festival 2025: Tradition Meets Trailblazing Energy

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Here’s a snapshot from the 2025 Newport Folk Festival—set against the scenic coastal stage of Fort Adams, where festival magic unfolded this July.

When & Where:
The 66th Newport Folk Festival took place from July 25–27, 2025, once again gracing the historic Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island newenglandsounds.com Wikipedia.

A Legacy of Innovation

Since its debut in 1959, the Newport Folk Festival has been a beacon of folk tradition—yet never afraid to evolve. Originating as a counterpart to the Jazz Festival, it was founded by icons like George Wein, Pete Seeger, Albert Grossman, Theodore Bikel, and Oscar Brand Wikipedia.

Over the decades, Newport has become synonymous with pivotal cultural moments—like Dylan’s controversial “electric” set, civil rights anthems, and a broad-minded approach to genre fusion. It remains a place where heritage and boundary-pushing artistry meet Wikipedia Thrillist.

2025 Highlights: Lineup, Moments & Evolution

The Lineup: Expect the Unexpected

The 2025 roster reflected Newport’s ethos of sonic diversity—blending folk’s roots with alternative, rap, indie, and beyond:

Confirmed Artists included Jeff Tweedy, Mt. Joy, Waxahatchee, Luke Combs, Public Enemy, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Margo Price, Iron & Wine, Kenny Loggins, Julien Baker (with TORRES), Waxahatchee, Jessica Pratt, Geese, Goose, Big Freedia, I’m With Her, Michael Kiwanuka, Maren Morris, Lucius, Obongjayar, Remi Wolf, Kevin Morby, Hurray for the Riff Raff, Dehd, BCUC, Sammy Rae & The Friends, and others Wikipedia+1 JamBase What’s Up Newp Thrillist.

The lineup didn’t just span genres—Public Enemy’s inclusion underscored Newport’s embrace of protest music as folk music, challenging simple definitions and honoring its revolutionary spirit Thrillist BOOK MORE WOMEN.

Tickets: Gone in a Flash

Demand soared—general admission tickets sold out in under a minute, even before any artists were revealed Newport Buzz. Yes, that’s how legendary Newport’s reputation is.

Emotional Moments

Luke Combs delivered one such moment of raw emotion. Mid-performance on July 26, he was moved to tears singing “Whoever You Turn Out To Be” and paused to gather himself—a candid, heartfelt moment that won cheers and empathy from the audience People.com.

Blending Community and Culture

Newport continues to break down genre barriers—welcoming funk, gospel, rap, indie-rock, even New Orleans bounce alongside traditional folk threads. The result: a vibrant tapestry of community, collaboration, and creative change BOOK MORE WOMEN.

Why Newport Still Matters

Continuing Legacy: Ever since 1959, Newport has been more than a festival—it’s a cultural touchstone that’s deeply influenced folk and activism alike Wikipedia Thrillist.
Evolution Without Losing Roots: It honors tradition while evolving—bringing rap, electronic, indie, and global sounds into a folk framework BOOK MORE WOMEN Pitchfork Thrillist.
Community & Activism: Newport has always aligned folk with social action. Whether through song or programming choice, the festival champions expression, reflection, and connection.

Quick Recap: Newport Folk Festival 2025

Feature	Details
Dates & Venue	July 25–27 at Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI
Highlights	Genre-blending lineup, sold-out fast, emotional moments like Luke Combs
Theme	Honoring tradition while embracing innovation and activism

In Short: Newport Folk Festival 2025 was more than a series of performances—it was a crossroads of tradition and transformation. From tearful, intimate moments to genre-defying sets and lightning-speed ticket sales, it reaffirmed why Newport remains a touchstone for what folk music is and what it can be.

JamFest 2025: NewGrass Revival, Awards Season Buzz, and the Future of “Music Without Rules!”

Bluegrass may have been born in tradition, but it has never stopped evolving. From the high lonesome sound of Bill Monroe to the trailblazing spirit of Sam Bush and the New Grass Revival, this music has always been about honoring the past while daring to stretch the rules. And in 2025, the genre is buzzing with fresh energy—from packed festival lineups and prestigious award nominations to the launch of new music and fresh collaborations.

And tonight, NewGrass Radio carries that torch forward with a special edition of its show, spotlighting both traditional bluegrass artists and the new wave of innovators who are creating fearless blends of “Music Without Rules!” It’s a perfect reflection of where this scene has been—and where it’s headed next.

The Roots of NewGrass: A Revolution in the 1970s

Back in the 1970s, the boundaries of bluegrass began to expand in exciting ways. One of the most pivotal groups in this shift was New Grass Revival, a band that redefined what bluegrass could be. With members Sam Bush, Courtney Johnson, Ebo Walker, Curtis Burch, Butch Robins, John Cowan, Béla Fleck, and Pat Flynn, the band fused traditional picking with rock, jazz, and folk influences, creating a progressive sound that would open doors for generations to come.

Their daring approach proved that bluegrass could honor its heritage while also evolving, inspiring today’s fearless artists to continue pushing those boundaries—exactly the kind of spirit celebrated on NewGrass Radio’s “Music Without Rules” tonight.

Awards and Accolades: Bluegrass & Americana 2025

The next few months are packed with milestones for bluegrass and Americana, with the biggest names in the genre gathering for awards season.

International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Awards

Hosts: Comedian/banjo legend Steve Martin and master banjoist Alison Brown will co-host the 2025 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards on September 26. The two are also nominated for Song of the Year for their collaboration “5 Days Out, 2 Days Back.”
Nominees: Familiar names dominate the ballot. Billy Strings leads the way with nods for Entertainer of the Year, while Molly Tuttle, Sierra Hull, and Del McCoury continue to shine as fan favorites.
Hall of Fame Inductees: This year, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame welcomes Hot Rize, The Bluegrass Cardinals, and Arnold Schultz—three names that helped shape the very DNA of the genre.
Location: For the first time, the awards will be staged in Chattanooga, Tennessee, inside the historic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial for the Performing Arts.

Americana Honors & Awards

Host: Actor and musician John C. Reilly brings his down-home charm to the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville for the 24th annual Americana Honors & Awards on September 10, 2025.
Nominees: MJ Lenderman leads the pack with three nominations, while Charley Crockett, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings each snagged two nods.
AMERICANAFEST: The ceremony anchors the 25th anniversary of AMERICANAFEST (Sept. 9–13, 2025), a five-day Nashville takeover featuring showcases from hundreds of artists across the Americana spectrum.

Grammy Spotlight

At this year’s Grammy Awards, Billy Strings cemented his dominance, winning Best Bluegrass Album for Live Vol. 1.

Festivals Heating Up for 2025

The bluegrass and Americana calendar is bursting with reasons to hit the road:

World of Bluegrass (WOB): For the first time, the IBMA’s week-long celebration moves to Chattanooga, Tennessee, where it will remain through 2027. This year’s event runs September 16–20, 2025, with a keynote address by Billy Strings.
Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival: Back in full swing with a star-studded 2025 lineup that drew crowds from across the country.
Earl Scruggs Music Festival: A joyful tribute to banjo tradition, spotlighting both legends and rising stars.
New Jersey Bluegrass Festival: Launching this September in Moorestown, NJ, thanks to the Moorestown Music Collective. Even better—it’s free.
AMERICANAFEST 25th Anniversary: Beyond the awards, Nashville will buzz with hundreds of showcases, panels, and surprise collaborations during its five-day run.

Artist News: Shaping the Next Chapter

JigJam: The Irish quartet has brought their self-dubbed “iGrass” to international acclaim, even making a dazzling Grand Ole Opry debut.
Molly Tuttle: After disbanding her group Golden Highway, she’s now forming an all-woman band, marking an exciting new chapter.
Bronwyn Keith-Hynes: The virtuoso fiddler is stepping confidently into her solo career after parting with Golden Highway.
Alison Krauss: Ever a guiding voice, she recently praised Billy Strings and Sierra Ferrell for keeping traditional songs alive in fresh ways.
New Releases: Expect upcoming projects from Rodney Crowell, Margo Price, and Jeff Tweedy before the year wraps.

Tonight on NewGrass Radio: Tradition Meets “Music Without Rules!”

With so much momentum in the bluegrass and Americana world, tonight’s NewGrass Radio Show feels perfectly timed. The program will celebrate traditional artists—the very foundation of this music—while also spotlighting the new generation of bold musicians making fearless blends of genres.

This isn’t just a radio show. It’s a reminder that bluegrass lives on two tracks at once: rooted in its high-lonesome history and branching toward limitless horizons. Whether it’s the fiery innovation of New Grass Revival in the 1970s or the genre-bending sounds of today, the spirit remains the same—“Music Without Rules!”

So tune in tonight, turn it up, and let the timeless and the trailblazing flow together.