Music And Politics

by Jeff Jenkins ARIA’s Top 100 singles chart for 2025 features more songs by the KPop Demon Hunters Cast than Australian artists.

A bold new chapter for the Australian singer-songwriter arrives with a record shaped by relocation, reinvention and a willingness to confront change head on.

The global music community mourns the loss of Midnight Oil co-founder Rob Hirst, a formidable drummer, songwriter and activist whose work helped shape Australian rock and carried its voice to the world.

Taylor Swift had 10 Top 10 singles; Australia had none by Jeff Jenkins No Australian song hit number one in 2025. In fact, an Australian single failed to crack the Top 20. It’s believed to be the first time in chart history that a homegrown hit has not reached the Top 20.

ARIA No.1 artist Meg Mac has revealed details of her fourth studio album, It's My Party, set for release on February 20, 2026. The Australian singer-songwriter also prepares to embark on a national theatre tour in support of the record.

Australian rock icon John Brewster of The Angels delivered a career-spanning moment last night in Adelaide, joining Brisbane punk-garage trio Dune Rats during their support set for Yungblud's Idols Tour at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. Together, they performed the legendary pub rock anthem “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again,” creating a historic moment that bridged generations of Australian rock fans.

Melbourne punk legends The Meanies are back in action this March, bringing their frenetic live energy to venues in Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle, Woy Woy and Aireys Inlet. The March run includes appearances at regional festivals Lawncore and the Aireys Music Festival, marking the band's first shows since the release of their new single, “Shutdown,” last October.