Inside the 2025 BIGSOUND Artist Hub: Wellness, Workshops and Industry Connections

When BIGSOUND returns to Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley this September, showcasing artists will have more than just the stage to look forward to. Organisers have announced a major expansion of the BIGSOUND Artist Hub, with Spotify stepping in as a key partner to support artist development and wellbeing throughout the four-day event.

Taking over BrewDog’s multi-level venue on Brunswick Street, the 2025 Artist Hub will operate as an all-in-one oasis for emerging and established acts alike. Open throughout BIGSOUND week from September 2nd-5th, it’ll offer everything from quiet zones and refreshments to one-on-one artist concierge services — plus a packed schedule of panels, workshops, activations, and networking opportunities delivered by some of the biggest names in the business.

QMusic and BIGSOUND CEO Kris Stewart said the Artist Hub reflects the organisation’s broader commitment to building sustainable careers in music. “We want BIGSOUND to be more than just a showcase,” he said. “It’s about giving artists tools and connections they won’t find at any other festival.”

Spotify AU’s investment in the hub aligns with its 'Turn Up AUS' program, an initiative designed to amplify and support Australian talent. The streamer’s local Music Editors and Artist & Label Partnerships team will host exclusive artist-only events across the week, including the official BIGSOUND Welcome Event and two Spotify-hosted breakfasts on September 3rd and 4th.

“'Turn Up AUS' is all about celebrating and championing Australian artists — and BIGSOUND is the perfect place to bring that to life,” said Spotify’s Artist and Label Partnerships Lead Leah Harris. “We’re proud to support the Artist Hub as a space where artists can feel welcomed, supported and inspired, while also offering workshops, events and opportunities that help them grow. 

“Whether it’s sharing insights, connecting artists with their peers, or simply providing a place to recharge, we’re here to help artists make the most of their BIGSOUND experience and take their next step on the global stage.”

BrewDog’s Head of Australian Operations, Calvin McDonald, said the venue was proud to host this year’s hub: “Independent beer and music have always gone hand-in-hand, so it makes perfect sense for BrewDog to provide the space for the industry to connect.”

Across the three levels of the venue, artists can expect conversations led by Concord Music Publishing, Select Music, Support Act, Community Music and others, with topics ranging from A&R and sync to mental health and industry navigation.

Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek called BIGSOUND a magnet for both local and international music stakeholders.

“The Artist Hub provides opportunities for live music artists, managers and other creatives to connect, exchange ideas and explore business opportunities vital to a sustainable industry,” he said.

In a BIGSOUND first, artists will also have the opportunity to sell merch through American Apparel’s on-demand printing activation. Fans can purchase shirts featuring artist-designed graphics daily at the Fortitude Music Hall foyer, with proceeds going directly back to the acts.

Other creative partners at the Artist Hub include APRA AMCOS, who will present a trivia session from the team behind Not On Your Rider; CASIO, who’ll install an interactive piano display and give away prizes; and mixers hosted by BMI and Qsic.

Entry to the Artist Hub is free for all showcasing artists, with select sessions open to BIGSOUND delegates.

BIGSOUND 2025

Visit www.bigsound.org.au for more info and to purchase tickets.

All-Access Delegate Pass:
Includes access to the full conference, showcase events, workshops and parties.
General: $724 / QMusic Members: $624 / Students: $399

3-Night Music Festival Pass:
Grants access to 120+ artists across 18 venues and the closing night party.
Early Bird: $79 +bf (until July 31st or sold out)
Under 25: $65 +bf

1-Night Music Festival Ticket:
Entry to all venues on one selected night (Tue/Wed/Thu)
Standard: $49 +bf
Under 25: $25 +bf
Mobility Access: $24.50 +bf