Festivals
10 Artists We’re Most Excited to See at Boston Calling 2025
Boston Calling returns this Memorial Day weekend (May 23–25) to the Harvard Athletic Complex in Allston, Massachusetts, with a lineup that spans genres and generations. From country to punk, hip-hop to indie rock, the festival promises something for everyone. Here are 10 artists we’re particularly excited to see.
Fall Out Boy
Fall Out Boy wasn’t planning to play shows this year, but they made an exception for Boston Calling. Fresh off a surprise set at Innings Festival in Arizona, they delivered a 27-song marathon featuring hits across their discography. They even brought along a flying papier-mâché sheep as part of their stage setup. With a new album in the works, expect a mix of classics and possibly some fresh material. Their live shows are known for high energy and unexpected moments, so anything could happen.
Dave Matthews Band
Dave Matthews Band is celebrating a milestone: their first show in Richmond, VA, in 30 years. They’re also continuing their tradition of environmental activism, aiming to divert at least 90% of fan-generated waste from landfills during their 2025 tour. Their set promises a blend of fan favorites and deep cuts, all delivered with the improvisational flair that has become their hallmark.
Luke Combs
Luke Combs has been open about his struggles with a severe form of OCD, sharing his experiences to help others facing similar challenges. Despite this, he continues to deliver powerful performances, connecting with audiences through his heartfelt lyrics and relatable storytelling. His set at Boston Calling is expected to be a mix of chart-topping hits and perhaps some surprises, showcasing his range as a performer.
Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend is currently touring in support of their latest album, “Only God Was Above Us,” and the festival is one of their key stops. They’ve been known to incorporate unique elements into their shows, like surprise guests and playful stage antics. Expect a set that blends new material with fan favorites, all delivered with the band’s signature eclectic style.
Avril Lavigne
Avril Lavigne is bringing her Greatest Hits Tour, offering a nostalgic trip through her early 2000s pop-punk anthems. She’s been touring extensively, with recent shows in Canada drawing large crowds. Her performance is expected to be a high-energy showcase of her most beloved songs, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners.
Public Enemy
Public Enemy continues to deliver politically charged performances that resonate with audiences. Their inclusion in the lineup brings a dose of classic hip-hop with a message, reminding us of the genre’s roots in social commentary. Expect a powerful set that combines their iconic tracks with messages that remain relevant today.
T-Pain
T-Pain recently headlined Coachella 2025, sharing the stage with notable figures like Lady Gaga and even Bernie Sanders. His performances are known for their energy and crowd engagement, blending his signature Auto-Tuned vocals with a dynamic stage presence. At Boston Calling, anticipate a set filled with his biggest hits and perhaps some unexpected collaborations.
Remi Wolf
Just off her Big Ideas Tour and taking the stage on Sunday, Remi Wolf’s genre-blending style combines funk, pop, and soul into a unique sound. Her vibrant performances and distinctive voice have garnered critical acclaim. Her set is expected to be a colorful and energetic experience, showcasing her dynamic artistry.
Cage the Elephant
Part of Saturday’s lineup, Cage the Elephant’s alternative rock sound is characterized by gritty vocals and dynamic instrumentation. Known for hits like “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked,” their live shows are high-energy affairs, with frontman Matt Shultz being unstoppable on stage. Their performance is anticipated to be a standout, delivering raw energy and engaging the crowd throughout.
Megan Moroney
Opening Friday’s festivities, rising country artist Megan Moroney brings heartfelt lyrics and a fresh perspective to the genre. Her recent work has been praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. Her set offers an opportunity to experience one of country music’s promising new voices in an intimate festival setting.
With a diverse lineup that spans genres and generations, Boston Calling 2025 promises a weekend of memorable performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering new favorites, there’s something for everyone at this year’s festival.
Festivals
Jonas Brothers Announced As Friday Night Headliners At Boots And Hearts Music Festival
Republic Live, producers of the internationally acclaimed and multi-award-winning Boots and Hearts Music Festival, announce today that global superstars Jonas Brothers will make their first-ever country music festival debut as Friday night headliners for the August 7–9 weekend in Ontario at Burl’s Creek Event Grounds.
The multi-Platinum, GRAMMY-nominated Jonas Brothers bring their high-energy pop-rock show to Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, marking a major cultural moment for Boots and Hearts as the festival celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. With multiple #1 albums, decades of chart-topping hits, and a stadium-selling fanbase, their addition signals a bold evolution of Canada’s largest country music and camping festival. Known for cross-genre collaborations, including with country artists, and a live show packed with nostalgic hits across generations, the Jonas Brothers help deliver three days of non-stop music and unforgettable moments.
The Jonas Brothers join a powerhouse weekend lineup including Saturday night headliners, The Chicks (August 8), the GRAMMY and CMA Award-winning icons whose influence spans generations, and Sunday night headliners Rascal Flatts (August 9), the ACM Award-winning country hitmakers behind some of the genre’s most enduring anthems.
The 2026 lineup also features a dynamic mix of chart-topping stars and breakout artists shaping today’s country and crossover sound, including Russell Dickerson, Tucker Wetmore, Jessie Murph, Sam Barber, Dasha, Max McNown, Waylon Wyatt, The Jack Wharff Band, Kaitlin Butts, Ashley Cooke, and Emily Anne Roberts.
While the Jonas Brothers’ appearance marks a milestone moment, their presence also reflects country music’s evolving landscape. The band recently collaborated with Russell Dickerson, and their past associations with fellow Boots and Hearts artists, Rascal Flatts and Ashley Cooke, have further connected their sound to the modern country ecosystem.
Staying true to its roots, Boots and Hearts will continue to spotlight Canadian hit makers throughout the weekend, with Brett Kissel, James Barker Band, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, and the best in new Canadian talent like Thelma & James, Savannah Jade, Tony Stevens, Mitch Zorn, and School House.
“Country music continues to grow by reaching new audiences, and many of the artists on this lineup helped lead that growth by creating music that connects across generations and genres. The Jonas Brothers have embraced cross-genre collaboration in the country space, while artists like The Chicks and Rascal Flatts helped open the door for the genre’s mainstream and crossover success,” shares Brooke Dunford, Director of Talent Buying & Business Development for Republic Live. “Bringing them together reflects how fans are consuming music today and we’re proud to follow that creative momentum at Boots and Hearts .”
With the addition of the Jonas Brothers, Boots and Hearts delivers a rare weekend bringing together multiple arena and stadium-level live acts on one festival bill – reinforcing its reputation as a must-attend destination for unforgettable, large-scale performances.
Festival line-up by day below.
Friday, August 7 – Main Stage
Jonas Brothers
Russell Dickerson
Dasha
Friday, August 7 –Front Porch Stage
Brett Kissel (CAN)
Emily Anne Roberts
School House (CAN)
Saturday, August 8 – Main Stage
The Chicks
Jessie Murph
Waylon Wyatt
Carolyn Dawn Johnson (CAN)
Saturday, August 8 – Front Porch Stage
Sam Barber
Thelma & James (CAN)
The Jack Wharff Band
Tony Stevens
Sunday, August 9 – Main Stage
Rascal Flatts
Tucker Wetmore
James Barker Band (CAN)
Ashley Cooke
Sunday, August 10 –Front Porch Stage
Max McNown
Kaitlin Butts
Mitch Zorn (CAN)
Savannah Jade (CAN)
“Boots and Hearts has always been about the moments music creates. It’s about community, unforgettable experiences, and bringing artists together that have never shared the stage,” says Eva Dunford, Co-Founder of Republic Live. “As we celebrate 15 years of the festival, we’re proud to honour that spirit in a way that feels truly authentic. While music brings us together, it’s the memories we create that last a lifetime.”
Elevating the fan experience even further in 2026, Republic Live introduces two new premium options: Daisy Duke’s Deck VIP+ at the Main Stage and the Front Porch VIP area, giving fans new ways to enjoy the festival in elevated style.
Already an eight-time CCMA Country Festival of the Year winner and recognized by the Academy of Country Music for Festival of the Year, Boots and Hearts continues to set the standard for world-class festival experiences.
All ticket types, including weekend, single-day, camping and parking, are now available for purchase at www.bootsandhearts.com. Fans can also take advantage of flexible payment options through PayPal or Klarna. For more exciting announcements and information about the 2026 Boots and Hearts Music Festival, visit the website HERE.
Festivals
Boots And Hearts West Unveils Additional Artists For The Inaugural Festival In Edmonton
Boots and Hearts West announces an exciting new wave of artists set to perform across two stages on August 28 and 29 at Fan Park at @ ICE District, outside Rogers Place in Edmonton. Joining previously announced headliners—Platinum-selling hitmaker Russell Dickerson and genre-blending trailblazer Shaboozey, fresh off his GRAMMY win—the newly revealed lineup features a dynamic mix of chart-toppers, breakout talent, and fan favourites. This latest announcement builds momentum for what is shaping up to be a must-attend weekend for country and crossover music fans across Western Canada.
Added to Friday’s (8/28) line-up is Gold-certified selling artist and rising star Max McNown, known for his heartfelt songwriting and rapidly growing fanbase, alongside three of Canada’s most exciting voices, JUNO award-nominated artist Tyler Joe Miller, Alberta favourite Kalsey Kulyk and emerging artist Dawson Gray.
Saturday (8/29) will feature critically acclaimed GRAMMY, ACM, and CMA-nominated neotraditional country trio Midland, breakthrough duo Thelma & James – marking their first Alberta homecoming performance – breakout artist Zach McPhee, and newcomer Brock Phillips. Additional artists will be announced at a later date.
Festival lineup by day below.
Friday, August 28
Russell Dickerson
Max McNown
Tyler Joe Miller
Kalsey Kulyk
Dawson Gray
Saturday, August 29
Shaboozey
Midland
Thelma & James
Zach McPhee
Brock Phillips
“Seeing Boots and Hearts West continue to take shape with our partners at OEGSE is incredibly exciting. This lineup builds on the energy we’re bringing to Edmonton and reflects our commitment to a thoughtfully curated festival experience. From the artists to the setting at ICE District, we can’t wait to see BootsLife come alive in the West and create two unforgettable days of live music this summer,” shares Eva Dunford, Co-Founder of Republic Live.
Boots and Hearts West will bring the spirit, energy and community of the multi-award-winning festival to Edmonton for the first time this year. For over a decade, Boots and Hearts Music Festival and Republic Live have built a loyal fan base drawn to its signature blend of music, community and unforgettable experiences. An eight-time Canadian Country Music Association Award winner for Country Festival of the Year and recognized by the Academy of Country Music for Festival of the Year, the festival continues to grow by delivering world-class country events directly to country fans across the nation. Boots and Hearts West builds on that legacy, expanding the festival’s footprint into Western Canada and offering fans new ways to experience the festival they love.
Tickets are available for sale exclusively at www.bootsandheartswest.com. Fans can also take advantage of flexible payment options through PayPal or Klarna. Additional festival details will be shared in the coming months.