NEWS
James Bay to headline The Long Road Festival’s biggest year yet
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The Long Road Festival is set to make its grand return in August 2025, promising its most ambitious lineup yet. Organizers have officially announced that multi-award-winning singer-songwriter James Bay will headline Sunday night, joining previously revealed U.S. headliners Drake Milligan (Friday) and Midland (Saturday).
Taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend (August 22-24), The Long Road has become a staple for country, Americana, and roots music enthusiasts, earning praise from DIY as a “haven” for the genres. Held in the picturesque grounds of Stanford Hall, Leicestershire, the festival blends music, culture, and an immersive experience for fans.
James Bay, a celebrated British musician and Grammy nominee, will make his Long Road debut, capping off a stellar weekend. Bay, who released his fourth studio album Changes All The Time last year via Mercury/Republic Records, first rose to prominence with his multi-Platinum, UK #1 debut Chaos and the Calm, featuring iconic hits like “Hold Back The River” and “Let It Go.” His latest album showcases collaborations with Noah Kahan and The Lumineers on “Up All Night,” as well as songwriting credits alongside The Killers’ Brandon Flowers and Holly Humberstone.
With over 9 billion streams to his name and performances alongside music legends such as Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen, and Sheryl Crow (who is set to appear on his next release), Bay’s presence at The Long Road is a major draw for festivalgoers.
Festival Creative Director Baylen Leonard shared his excitement about the announcement, stating: “At The Long Road, we’re all about celebrating the best in country, roots, and Americana, while also bringing in artists that broaden the experience. James Bay is one of the finest singer-songwriters of our time and is the perfect fit for our Sunday night finale.”
Expanding Lineup and New Additions
Alongside the headlining acts, an exciting roster of artists has been added to this year’s lineup. French breakthrough star Bobbie, folk icons Bonnie Dobson & the Hanging Stars, and sibling duo Crowe Boys are just a few of the fresh faces joining the bill. Other noteworthy names include UK Americana Music Award winners Danny & The Champions of the World, Irish folk-pop talent Darren Kiely, and CMT’s Next Women of Country artist Denitia.
Two-time Grammy winner Gill Landry, formerly of Old Crow Medicine Show, also joins the festival, bringing his Louisiana-born storytelling prowess to the UK stage. Rock ‘n’ roll fans can look forward to performances by New Orleans-based Greazy Alice and acclaimed Oregon-born songwriter The White Buffalo, whose music has been featured in hit TV series like Sons of Anarchy and This Is Us.
More Than Just Music: A Fully Immersive Festival Experience
The Long Road is not just about established stars; it has become a launchpad for emerging talent. With showcases hosted by industry partners such as Loose Music, Color Me Country with Rissi Palmer, and Snakefarm Records, the festival provides a platform for rising artists. Attendees can also enjoy Nashville-style songwriter rounds, artist meet-and-greets, and lively afterparties.
Now in its sixth year, The Long Road is introducing exciting new elements for 2025. Performances will take place across six unique stages, including the newly expanded Rhinestone Stage, which will open on Friday afternoon for the first time. Other notable spots include The Interstate, The Front Porch, Buddy’s country bar, and The Showground—known for hosting breakthrough acts. A brand-new sixth stage is also set to debut, with further details to be announced soon.
With a carefully curated lineup and an immersive country music experience, The Long Road Festival 2025 is shaping up to be an unmissable event. Tickets are available now, including Weekend, Camping, Day, Kids, and VIP options. Visit www.thelongroad.com/tickets for more details.
Taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend (August 22-24), The Long Road has become a staple for country, Americana, and roots music enthusiasts, earning praise from DIY as a “haven” for the genres. Held in the picturesque grounds of Stanford Hall, Leicestershire, the festival blends music, culture, and an immersive experience for fans.
With over 9 billion streams to his name and performances alongside music legends such as Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen, and Sheryl Crow (who is set to appear on his next release), Bay’s presence at The Long Road is a major draw for festivalgoers.
Festival Creative Director Baylen Leonard shared his excitement about the announcement, stating: “At The Long Road, we’re all about celebrating the best in country, roots, and Americana, while also bringing in artists that broaden the experience. James Bay is one of the finest singer-songwriters of our time and is the perfect fit for our Sunday night finale.”
Expanding Lineup and New Additions
Alongside the headlining acts, an exciting roster of artists has been added to this year’s lineup. French breakthrough star Bobbie, folk icons Bonnie Dobson & the Hanging Stars, and sibling duo Crowe Boys are just a few of the fresh faces joining the bill. Other noteworthy names include UK Americana Music Award winners Danny & The Champions of the World, Irish folk-pop talent Darren Kiely, and CMT’s Next Women of Country artist Denitia.
Two-time Grammy winner Gill Landry, formerly of Old Crow Medicine Show, also joins the festival, bringing his Louisiana-born storytelling prowess to the UK stage. Rock ‘n’ roll fans can look forward to performances by New Orleans-based Greazy Alice and acclaimed Oregon-born songwriter The White Buffalo, whose music has been featured in hit TV series like Sons of Anarchy and This Is Us.
More Than Just Music: A Fully Immersive Festival Experience
The Long Road is not just about established stars; it has become a launchpad for emerging talent. With showcases hosted by industry partners such as Loose Music, Color Me Country with Rissi Palmer, and Snakefarm Records, the festival provides a platform for rising artists. Attendees can also enjoy Nashville-style songwriter rounds, artist meet-and-greets, and lively afterparties.
Now in its sixth year, The Long Road is introducing exciting new elements for 2025. Performances will take place across six unique stages, including the newly expanded Rhinestone Stage, which will open on Friday afternoon for the first time. Other notable spots include The Interstate, The Front Porch, Buddy’s country bar, and The Showground—known for hosting breakthrough acts. A brand-new sixth stage is also set to debut, with further details to be announced soon.
With a carefully curated lineup and an immersive country music experience, The Long Road Festival 2025 is shaping up to be an unmissable event. Tickets are available now, including Weekend, Camping, Day, Kids, and VIP options. Visit www.thelongroad.com/tickets for more details.
