Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley will once again transform into a hub of musical innovation and industry discourse as the 25th anniversary edition of BIGSOUND is set to take place from September 1-4. This significant milestone for Australia’s premier music industry conference and showcase festival promises an expanded program, highlighting a diverse array of talent and fostering crucial conversations for the future of the music landscape.
The initial wave of announced "Artist In Conversation" participants includes some of the most dynamic and influential figures in contemporary music: Stu Mackenzie and Lucas Harwood of the genre-bending psychedelic rock titans King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard; the acclaimed indie singer-songwriter Julia Jacklin; and the groundbreaking Ngarrindjeri hip-hop artist and producer, Trials. These sessions are consistently a highlight of BIGSOUND, offering attendees intimate insights into the creative processes and career trajectories of established artists.
A Quarter-Century of Musical Evolution
BIGSOUND, produced by QMusic, has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1999. Over the past two and a half decades, it has evolved from a regional gathering into a globally recognized platform for artist discovery, industry networking, and the exchange of ideas. The festival has been instrumental in launching the careers of countless Australian and New Zealand artists, providing them with vital exposure to international delegates, including record label executives, booking agents, publishers, and media. The choice of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, a precinct renowned for its vibrant live music venues and thriving entertainment scene, provides an immersive backdrop perfectly suited for the festival’s energetic atmosphere. The dates, September 1-4, position BIGSOUND as a crucial event at the cusp of the Southern Hemisphere’s festival season and a significant fixture in the global music calendar.
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: A Testament to Prolific Creativity
The inclusion of Stu Mackenzie and Lucas Harwood from King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard is particularly noteworthy. The band is no stranger to BIGSOUND, having previously performed at the event in 2013. Since then, their output has been nothing short of astounding. Renowned for their relentless touring and an astonishing discography that boasts over 25 studio albums – including a remarkable feat of releasing five albums in a single year – King Gizzard has carved out a unique and dominant niche within the psychedelic rock genre. Their independent spirit is further evidenced by the establishment of their own label, p(doom) Records, and their status as one of Australia’s most significant music exports. Their participation in the "Artist In Conversation" series is expected to offer deep insights into their prolific creative process, their entrepreneurial ventures, and their enduring appeal on the global stage. Their ability to consistently innovate and maintain such a high level of output offers a compelling case study for aspiring musicians and industry professionals alike.
Julia Jacklin: Global Reach and Artistic Maturity
Julia Jacklin, another prominent figure in the initial lineup, has also been a previous BIGSOUND performer, making her debut in 2016. This appearance preceded the release of her critically acclaimed debut album, Don’t Let The Kids Win, which marked the beginning of a trajectory that has seen her release three successful studio albums. Jacklin’s music, characterized by its poignant lyricism and evocative melodies, has resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Her recent signing to the esteemed independent label 4AD, a move that underscores her growing international stature, further solidifies her position as a major artistic force. This signing coincides with the announcement of her extensive 2026/27 global tour, which will encompass North America, the United Kingdom, and continental Europe. Her presence at BIGSOUND will undoubtedly provide valuable perspectives on building a sustainable international career, navigating label relationships, and connecting with a global fanbase through authentic artistry. Her journey from an emerging artist at BIGSOUND to a globally recognized talent exemplifies the festival’s core mission of artist development and international promotion.
Trials: A Voice of Social Conscience and Musical Innovation
Completing the initial "Artist In Conversation" lineup is Trials (real name Daniel Rankine), a highly respected Ngarrindjeri hip-hop producer, composer, and innovator. As a founding member of the influential hip-hop group The Funkoars and one half of the politically charged duo A.B. Original with Briggs, Trials has consistently pushed creative boundaries. A.B. Original’s impact has been significant, earning them two ARIA Awards and the prestigious Australian Music Prize for their 2016 album Reclaim Australia. This recognition highlights their powerful lyrical content and their commitment to addressing important social and cultural issues through their music. Trials’ recent activities include supporting the iconic Hilltop Hoods on a 10-date arena tour and releasing his debut solo project, hendle. Beyond his musical endeavors, Trials has demonstrated a strong commitment to social responsibility by supporting Full Stop Australia, a leading organization dedicated to responding to and recovering from sexual, domestic, and family violence. Profits from his merchandise sales are donated to this vital cause. His participation at BIGSOUND is expected to provide unique insights into the intersection of art, activism, and entrepreneurship, offering a powerful example of how artists can leverage their platform for positive social change. His perspective on indigenous artistry and its place within the contemporary music industry will be a particularly valuable addition to the conference discussions.
Expanding Horizons: International Delegates and Industry Focus
BIGSOUND 2026 is set to welcome a significant contingent of international delegates, further cementing its role as a crucial nexus for global music industry connections. Representatives from prominent international entities such as Partisan Records, Pitchfork, Bonnaroo, Soho House, MOM+POP, ROAM Artists, Reeperbahn, DMT Law Firm, Carpark Records, The Great Escape, True Panther, and SXSW are confirmed to attend. This diverse group represents a broad spectrum of the global music ecosystem, from record labels and media outlets to major festivals and legal firms. Their presence signifies a strong interest in discovering and engaging with emerging talent from Australia and New Zealand, and in understanding the evolving trends within these dynamic markets.
QMusic’s Vision for the 25th Anniversary
Kristy Ellis, interim CEO of QMusic, articulated the organization’s vision for this milestone event: "BIGSOUND has always been a place where real connections happen, and this year we’re focused on creating even more opportunities for Australian and New Zealand artists and industry to connect with each other and the global market," she stated. "The program focuses on the conversations the industry is having right now – how the business is changing, how we stay ahead, and how Australian and New Zealand artists continue to grow on the global stage." This statement underscores BIGSOUND’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of industry dialogue, adapting to the rapid shifts in music consumption, distribution, and artist development, and ensuring that the Australian and New Zealand music industries are well-equipped to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
A Legacy of Impactful Conversations
The "Artist In Conversation" series at BIGSOUND has a distinguished history, featuring notable figures who have shaped the music landscape. Past participants have included the chart-topping artist Tones And I (Tony Watson), the legendary R&B artist Kelis, the insightful indie artist Mallrat, Dave Rowntree of the iconic band Blur, and the electrifying Amy Taylor of Amyl And The Sniffers. These past discussions have provided invaluable lessons on artistry, career management, and the challenges and triumphs of navigating the music industry. The continued caliber of guests for the 25th anniversary edition suggests a program rich in wisdom, experience, and forward-thinking perspectives.
Broader Implications for the Music Industry
The announcement of BIGSOUND’s 25th anniversary edition and its initial lineup arrives at a critical juncture for the global music industry. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, and the economic models for artists and businesses undergo constant recalibration, events like BIGSOUND become increasingly vital. They provide a much-needed physical space for collaboration, innovation, and the forging of partnerships that can drive future success. The focus on "conversations the industry is having right now" suggests that the programming will address pressing issues such as the impact of artificial intelligence on music creation and copyright, the evolving role of streaming platforms, the importance of mental health and well-being within the industry, and strategies for sustainable touring and international market penetration.
The presence of both established, globally recognized artists like King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Julia Jacklin, alongside artists with a strong social conscience and innovative approach like Trials, reflects BIGSOUND’s commitment to showcasing the breadth and depth of contemporary music. It also signals an intention to engage with the multifaceted nature of a modern music career, encompassing not only creative output but also entrepreneurial spirit, community engagement, and social impact.
For artists seeking to break through and industry professionals aiming to stay ahead of the curve, BIGSOUND 2026 presents an unparalleled opportunity. The festival’s long-standing reputation for delivering impactful programming, fostering meaningful connections, and championing artistic excellence ensures that its 25th anniversary will be a landmark event, setting the stage for the next era of music industry growth and innovation. Further announcements regarding the full lineup of artists performing at the showcase stages, as well as additional speakers and conference sessions, are anticipated in the coming months, promising an even more comprehensive and engaging experience for all attendees.
For more information and to secure tickets, interested parties can visit the official BIGSOUND website at bigsound.org.au.
