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The NewGrass Revolution in December 2025 Brings Major Shifts in Bluegrass and Newgrass Music

by JamFestNewGrass Radio

Bluegrass music has always been synonymous with tradition, but the genre has come a long way since its roots in the Appalachian hills. As we wrap up 2025, the bluegrass and newgrass scenes are witnessing a seismic shift, driven by a wave of new talent and the continued evolution of the genre. From major award wins to genre-blending collaborations, the future of bluegrass has never looked so exciting. In tonight’s NewGrass Radio Show, we celebrate the growing movement of “Music Without Rules!” by showcasing the new generation of artists pushing boundaries while still honoring bluegrass’s rich legacy.

The Roots of Newgrass: A Legacy of Innovation

While bluegrass has deep ties to tradition, the emergence of newgrass in the 1970s marked a pivotal moment in the genre’s history. Bands like New Grass Revival, featuring legends like Sam Bush, Béla Fleck, and John Cowan, laid the groundwork for a more liberal interpretation of the genre. These trailblazers blended bluegrass with elements of jazz, rock, and folk to create something entirely new—something that embraced the free spirit of experimentation.

Fast forward to 2025, and the newgrass revolution is alive and well, with both veteran artists and newcomers continuing to blur the lines between genres. This December, bluegrass and newgrass music are thriving more than ever, with numerous artists making waves through chart-topping albums, sold-out tours, and groundbreaking collaborations.

Major Artist Updates: Shaping the Future of Bluegrass

The big news this month is centered around some of the genre’s biggest stars, who are pushing the boundaries of what bluegrass can be.

  • Billy Strings has been on a meteoric rise, and 2025 has been no exception. The Grammy-winning artist, who claimed Best Bluegrass Album at the 2025 Grammys for Live Vol. 1, also took home Entertainer of the Year at the IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards. His success shows no signs of slowing down, with a major 2025 Spring tour in support of his chart-topping album Highway Prayers already announced. His boundary-pushing style continues to inspire both traditionalists and newcomers to bluegrass alike.
  • Molly Tuttle made a bold move earlier this year by dissolving her band, Golden Highway. But rather than slowing down, she’s only upped her game. Her new album, So Long Little Miss Sunshine, marks a departure from her previous work, exploring a hybrid of folk-rock, pop, and country in a newgrass style that feels both fresh and deeply rooted. After wrapping up her “The Highway Knows” tour with a sold-out show in San Francisco on December 13, Tuttle has cemented herself as one of the genre’s most innovative artists.
  • Sierra Hull, another major name in bluegrass, is having a breakthrough year. With four Grammy nominations on the horizon for 2026, including Best Bluegrass Album for A Tip Toe High Wire, Hull is continuing to push the envelope with her progressive approach to bluegrass. She spent much of December 2025 touring with Béla Fleck & the Flecktones, reinforcing her position as one of the genre’s leading voices.
  • Mumford & Sons are another act making waves in the bluegrass world. The band, known for their blend of folk, rock, and bluegrass, has announced their upcoming album, Prizefighter, due out February 13, 2026. The album features collaborations with Chris Stapleton and Hozier, which will no doubt push their sound even further into the newgrass realm.

IBMA & Festival News: Bluegrass’s Growing Global Reach

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has been making big moves this year. For the first time ever, the annual “World of Bluegrass” event is relocating to Chattanooga, Tennessee, where it will remain for the next few years, through 2027. This move is expected to bring new energy and exposure to the bluegrass scene, not just in the U.S., but internationally as well.

In other festival news, the Foxfire Newgrass Band has already announced their 2026 tour, with a January 10 kick-off show in Granville, Tennessee. Their innovative take on the newgrass genre promises to keep the bluegrass scene fresh and exciting throughout the year.

Rising Stars: The Big Richard Quartet and New Releases

The bluegrass scene is also witnessing the rise of new talent. The Big Richard Quartet, a group known for its progressive and experimental bluegrass sound, has signed with Signature Sounds and announced their debut album, Pet, scheduled for release in February 2026. This young group is poised to make a big impact with their mix of bluegrass, folk, and experimental soundscapes.

Holiday Releases: A Bluegrass Christmas

December has also seen some exciting holiday releases, blending the warmth of bluegrass with festive cheer:

  • Corrina Rose Logston Stephens, under her side project Rrinaco, has released a new traditional carol featuring soft, banjo-driven melodies that are perfect for those who want to keep the Christmas spirit alive in a bluegrass style.
  • Béla Fleck has been on the road for his “Jingle All the Way” tour throughout December 2025. He also reissued his beloved holiday album on vinyl, giving fans a chance to enjoy his holiday music with a fresh spin.

What’s Next for Bluegrass in 2026?

The momentum for bluegrass and newgrass is only building, with more tours and collaborations lined up for the coming year. 2026 promises to be a year full of exciting musical breakthroughs, as the genre continues to evolve and expand its global reach. We’ll be keeping our eyes on the artists mentioned above, as well as the many up-and-coming acts that are sure to make their mark in the months to come.

Tonight’s NewGrass Radio Show: Tune in tonight for a special showcase of the best in newgrass and traditional bluegrass music! We’ll feature some of the latest hits, as well as classic tracks from pioneering artists like New Grass Revival. Whether you’re a lifelong bluegrass fan or new to the genre, there’s something for everyone in the world of newgrass, where innovation meets tradition in the most exciting ways.

As we close out December 2025, it’s clear that bluegrass and newgrass music are far from standing still. With major artists continuing to innovate, new collaborations on the horizon, and fresh voices leading the charge, 2026 is set to be another landmark year for these genres.

Stay tuned to JamFest for more updates on the world of bluegrass, newgrass, and everything in between. Music without rules—it’s a movement, and it’s only getting started.

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This Week in Club Music History, From Studio 54 to the After-Hours That Never Sleep and it is Club Night & Sunday Spunday on JamFest!

by Club NightJamFest

Club culture has always moved in cycles — moments of excess, rebellion, reinvention, and underground revival. This week, those cycles collide in a powerful way. As December 13 arrives, the dance music world once again brushes up against some of the most pivotal nights in nightlife history, while modern club culture continues to push forward through late-night sets, festival energy, and all-night dance floors.

JamFest exists to connect those dots. From the iconic rooms that changed music forever to the after-hours culture that keeps the pulse alive today, this week is a reminder that the club scene has never been just about going out — it’s been about shaping sound, identity, and community.

December 14, 1978: The Night Studio 54 Cracked

December 14, 1978 remains one of the most infamous dates in nightlife history. On that night, federal IRS agents descended on Studio 54, the most famous nightclub in the world, and exposed what many suspected but few could prove. Owner Steve Rubell had reportedly joked to the press that only the Mafia made more money than his club. The IRS did not laugh.

What agents uncovered became legendary: hidden cash stuffed into ceiling spaces, garbage bags filled with unreported earnings, and detailed ledgers documenting skimming operations. The raid marked the beginning of the end for Studio 54’s original era of celebrity excess and velvet-rope mythology. Within two years, Rubell and business partner Ian Schrager were serving prison sentences for tax evasion, and the club was sold, closing the book on one of the most decadent chapters in dance music history.

Studio 54 didn’t just define disco — it defined the idea of nightlife as spectacle. But its collapse also proved that no club, no matter how famous, is immune to reality catching up.

From Glitter to Grit: The Limelight and the Club Kids Era

If Studio 54 symbolized disco’s polished fantasy, the Limelight represented the raw, confrontational energy of the 1990s New York underground. Operated by nightlife impresario Peter Gatien, the Limelight was housed inside a former Episcopal church on Sixth Avenue — a setting that perfectly mirrored its rebellious spirit.

Unlike the strict door politics of Studio 54, Gatien’s venues were known for what many called a democracy on the dance floor. Expression mattered more than status. That philosophy gave rise to the Club Kids, a movement defined by outrageous creativity and fearless self-presentation. Led by Michael Alig, the Club Kids transformed nightlife into performance art, arriving in handmade costumes that defied gravity, logic, and social norms.

The scene eventually spiraled into darkness, culminating in the 1996 murder of Andre “Angel” Melendez, a tragedy that shocked the club world and later inspired the film Party Monster. Still, the Limelight era left a lasting mark, proving that clubs could be cultural incubators, not just places to dance.

Paradise Garage: Where the Music Was the Star

While Studio 54 catered to celebrities and the Limelight to spectacle, Paradise Garage belonged to the dancers. Located at 84 King Street, the membership-only club became sacred ground for those who came not to be seen, but to feel the music.

Under the guidance of DJ Larry Levan, Paradise Garage redefined what a DJ could be. Levan obsessed over sound quality, often stopping the music mid-set to adjust a speaker or fine-tune the system. His legendary extended mixes, including marathon plays of Taana Gardner’s “Heartbeat,” pushed dancers into deep, hypnotic states. It was here that the foundations of Garage music were laid, influencing the birth of house and shaping dance floors around the world.

Paradise Garage proved that a club didn’t need glamour to be revolutionary. It needed trust between DJ and crowd, and a sound system capable of delivering emotion at full volume.

Then and Now: Where the Spirit Lives On

While many of these legendary rooms have closed, their influence remains alive in modern spaces that prioritize sound, atmosphere, and community. Venues like the former Original Sound Factory space on West 27th Street continue to host events inspired by classic warehouse energy, while rooms like Good Room in Brooklyn have become essential stops for underground dance music lovers seeking quality sound and immersive lighting.

Across the country tonight, that legacy continues in active club scenes. Philadelphia hosts multi-room house music gatherings, Houston turns back the clock with classic disco nights, and themed dance parties keep psych-influenced and electronic sounds moving well into the early hours.

Tonight on JamFest: The Party Never Stops

As the history echoes, JamFest carries the torch forward. Tonight, Club Night kicks off late, bringing high-energy DJ sets, in-studio mixes, remixes, and electronic sounds pulled straight from the world’s greatest music festivals. When the clock hits 2 a.m. EST, the momentum doesn’t fade — it shifts into Sunday Spunday.

From 2 a.m. through the early morning hours until around 9 a.m. EST, Sunday Spunday takes over, keeping the dance floor alive with nonstop EDM, festival-driven energy, and extended DJ sessions designed for the true after-hours crowd. It’s a celebration of the culture that never sleeps, where Saturday night flows seamlessly into Sunday morning.

Why This Week Still Matters

This week in club music history reminds us that nightlife has always been about more than entertainment. It has been a space for innovation, rebellion, community, and transformation. From the excess of Studio 54 to the underground soul of Paradise Garage, from the art-driven chaos of the Limelight to today’s all-night festival-inspired sets, the heartbeat of the club scene continues to evolve.

JamFest honors that history while keeping the speakers warm and the lights low. Tonight, the music doesn’t stop — it simply changes rooms, changes moods, and keeps moving forward, just as it always has.

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Global Music Festivals Heat Up for 2026: Lineups, Trends, and Festival Radio Highlights

by Festival Radio ShowJamFest

As 2026 approaches, the worldwide music festival scene is buzzing with excitement, from epic multi-day mega-events to innovative music cruises that double as international vacations. Fans are already marking calendars, booking trips, and anticipating some of the most exciting lineups and immersive experiences in recent memory. Whether you’re a loyal festival-goer or new to the scene, the upcoming year promises unforgettable performances across genres, continents, and stages.

Major Worldwide Festival Lineups for 2026

Across Europe and the United States, festival organizers are unveiling the first waves of their 2026 lineups, generating plenty of buzz among fans. Lollapalooza Berlin is kicking off the new year with a diverse roster featuring Pitbull, Lewis Capaldi, and Lorde, blending pop, electronic, and crossover appeal to attract audiences from across the globe. Meanwhile, Zermatt Unplugged in Switzerland is embracing a more intimate acoustic vibe, with Placebo, Tom Odell, and Emeli Sandé leading a lineup designed for stunning alpine performances that combine music and scenic beauty.

In the United States, Floydfest in Virginia continues its eclectic tradition with Andy Frasco & The U.N., Railroad Earth, and the Tedeschi Trucks Band gracing the stages for an unforgettable 2026 run. Movement Detroit, the iconic electronic festival, teased its lineup with Carl Cox, Anna, and 999999999, offering electronic enthusiasts another reason to descend on the Motor City. Back on the East Coast, HiJinx Festival in Philadelphia will light up late December 2025 with GRiZ, Gryffin, and Illenium headlining a weekend of electronic bliss.

Festival Trends Shaping 2026

Beyond lineups, the industry is seeing several trends redefining the festival experience. The rise of mega-events continues, with stadium-sized productions and multi-day experiences dominating the calendar. Music tourism is on the rise as fans combine festivals with travel, transforming the industry into a global cultural journey.

Specialized music cruises remain a hot-ticket trend, with ShipRocked 2026 for rock lovers and Groove Cruise Miami 2026 for electronic aficionados scheduled early in the year, offering fans a full “festival at sea” experience. Dance and electronic music continue to dominate festival culture, with a staggering 45% of the Coachella 2026 lineup dedicated to DJs and electronic acts.

Technology and sustainability are also key focuses for festival organizers. Cashless systems like RFID wristbands, personalized schedules, and eco-conscious initiatives are increasingly standard, enhancing the fan experience while reducing environmental impact.

Festival Radio: Your Weekly JamFest Connection

For fans who can’t attend every festival in person, JamFest brings the festival spirit directly to your speakers with the Festival Radio Show. Every Thursday night, listeners are treated to over eight hours of non-stop live music exclusively from iconic festivals around the world. From the sets you danced to last summer to legendary festival performances you’ve always wanted to experience, Festival Radio delivers the excitement and energy of the live festival scene straight to your home. Tonight’s show promises another curated journey through the world’s most unforgettable stages, keeping the festival magic alive all year long.

Whether it’s Berlin, Zermatt, Detroit, or Philadelphia, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for global music festivals. From groundbreaking lineups to cutting-edge fan experiences, festival-goers can expect bigger stages, bigger sounds, and unforgettable moments. With Festival Radio keeping the beats going, the energy of the festival never has to end—even if you’re miles away from the front row.

For full coverage of upcoming festivals, trends, and live Festival Radio streaming, check out Festival Radio and stay connected to the pulse of the music world.