Son Little

At 86, Mavis Staples is still proving that the power of song can change the world. The soul, gospel and civil rights icon will release her new album Sad And Beautiful World on 7 November 2025, an extraordinary project that spans seven decades of the American songbook while showcasing her timeless voice and message of unity.

Lucinda Williams is set to deliver one of the most politically charged and emotionally raw albums of her career with World's Gone Wrong, arriving 23 January 2026 through her own Highway 20 Records label. The record continues Williams' lifelong habit of holding up a mirror to American life - this time reflecting on division, resilience and the fight to stay human when the world feels anything but.

More than seventy years into her career, Mavis Staples is still proving why her voice is one of the most cherished in music. The soul legend has released the title track from her forthcoming album Sad And Beautiful World, due out on 7 November, a record that brings together timeless songs, new originals, and a line-up of music royalty.

Irish rock giants U2 have been named the 2025 recipients of the Woody Guthrie Prize, joining an honour roll that includes Bruce Springsteen, Joan Baez, John Mellencamp and Kris Kristofferson.

There are few voices in American music that carry the weight of history, faith, and resilience quite like Mavis Staples. Now 86, Staples is still moving forward with the same passion that has defined her life in music, announcing the release of her new album Sad And Beautiful World for November 7. Produced by Brad Cook (Bon Iver, Waxahatchee, Nathaniel Rateliff), the record is a sweeping celebration of survival and connection, featuring appearances from some of music’s greatest names.

The Doobies Brothers have released the first song from the first album with Michael McDonald in 45 years. ‘Walk This Road’ is the title track from the upcoming album and also features Mavis Staples.

Bonnie Raitt and Mavis Staples will play dates together in Sydney and Melbourne for Bluesfest Touring in April as well as the Bluesfest Festival in Byron Bay.