WE OUT HERE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES THE NEXT WAVE OF THEIR 2025 LINEUP

19 hours ago

Rotary Connection 222, Noname, 4AM Kru, Horace Andy, Carl Craig, Jalen Ngonda, Orchestre Poly Rythmo De Cotonou, Leroy Burgess & more join Michael Kiwanuka, Pa Salieu, Joe Bataan, Everything Is Recorded & over 90 live acts & DJs across 15 stages from 14-17 August.

We Out Here Festival 2025 has unveiled its second wave of artists, bringing another layer of world-class talent to its already stellar lineup. The festival, returning for its sixth edition, will take place from 14-17 August in the Dorset countryside, promising four days of unparalleled live music, DJ sets, and cultural programming.

A standout addition to this year’s festival is Rotary Connection 222, a special orchestral tribute to Charles Stepney. As the mastermind behind classic records from Earth, Wind & Fire, Minnie Riperton, and Marlena Shaw, Stepney’s influence on modern music is undeniable. This exclusive performance - curated by International Anthem and Stepney’s daughters, The Stepney Sisters - marks the show’s first and only appearance outside of Chicago.

Joining the bill is Chicago rapper Noname, whose 2023 album Sundial showcased her sharp lyricism and jazz-infused beats. Also announced is Orchestre Poly Rythmo De Cotonou, the legendary Afrobeat and jazz collective, alongside rising soul singer Jalen Ngonda.

On the electronic front, Carl Craig, a defining force in Detroit techno, will bring his signature sound to the festival. 4AM Kru promises a high-energy jungle set, while disco-soul icon Leroy Burgess will deliver a timeless performance. Jungle and drum & bass legends Roni Size, Photek, and Ben UFO B2B Josey Rebelle will also take the stage, adding to the festival’s deep-rooted dance music credibility.

This year, We Out Here pays tribute to 40 years of The Bristol Sound, celebrating the city’s impact on UK music. The lineup includes pioneers Smith & Mighty, Daddy G, Queen Bee, DJ Nature, Om Unit, Yushh, Peverelist, and more - bringing the essence of Bristol’s dub, bass, and trip-hop heritage to the festival.

We Out Here’s programming is crafted with passion, offering an immersive experience across 15 unique stages. From open-air dance floors to intimate sound systems, the festival is designed to foster connection, musical discovery, and collective joy.

With previously announced headliners Michael Kiwanuka, Pa Salieu, Joe Bataan, Everything Is Recorded, KOKOROKO, Nala Sinephro, and Bashy, the festival continues to bridge jazz, soul, hip-hop, house, and electronica with an ever-expanding lineup.

We Out Here is a place to disconnect from the outside world, surrounded by nature and like-minded music lovers.

The final wave of artists, as well as further details on talks and activities, will be announced soon.

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