Summer Sonic 2025 is set to excite fans of live music with the announcement of its fourth round of artists, headlined by international superstar Alicia Keys. The festival will be held on August 16 and 17 at ZOZO Marine Stadium & Makuhari Messe and Expo Memorial Park, promising to attract thousands of attendees wishing to experience some of the best talents across various genres.
The inclusion of Alicia Keys marks her return to Japan after 12 years, with her last performance occurring back in 2013. She will be joined by famous names such as BE:FIRST and Tina Turner, each anticipated to bring their unique sound to the festival stages. The festival's lineup already teems with excitement, featuring artists such as Fall Out Boy and Official Hige Dandism on the first day at Makuhari Messe, along with The Prodigy and Youngblood.
On August 16, additional performances at the Osaka venue will include other big names like Camila Cabello and J. Balvin, making it clear this year's festival is shaping up to be one of the most eclectic yet. The second day’s diverse lineup at Makuhari Messe includes the rising sensation aespa, promising another thrilling experience for attendees.
Beyond the established artists, Summer Sonic 2025 is gearing up to empower the next wave of music stars through its unique audition process dubbed "Derenno!? Summer Sonic!? 2025." This competition offers aspiring performers the chance to earn their place alongside renowned artists at the festival by showcasing their talents.
Applications for the audition opened on March 14, 2025, and will remain open until April 7, 2025, welcoming participants from various music genres, nationalities, and ages. The audition process consists of two stages, beginning with first round sound and video submissions, followed by studio assessments for selected applicants. Finalists will showcase their talents during live screenings slated for June 23 and 24 at the iconic Daikanyama SPACE ODD in Tokyo.
CreativeMan Productions, which has played a pivotal role in orchestrated events, is enthusiastic about this year's audition, stating, "We want to meet artists from all backgrounds and support their aspirations, whether they're local or international." The initiative embraces the modern shift dans la musique, allowing anyone with passion and creativity the chance to shine, regardless of the traditional barriers often associated with the industry.
Last year, notable groups such as Creepy Nuts, and local heroes like the Humbreaders participated, providing immense exposure to talents who took part. The hope remains to discover unique voices and innovative performers who can captivate audiences, reflecting the festival's commitment to diversity.
Summer Sonic continues to extend its legacy as not just a festival but as a stepping stone for upcoming artists, serving as both platform and launching pad for fresh talent. With its willingness to adapt to the changes of the music scene and listen to the voices of tomorrow, it's no wonder the event draws not only dedicated followers of popular music but those seeking to break boundaries.
Enthusiasts can expect the festival to weave together established powerhouses with innovative newcomers, creating thrilling lineups over two days of electrifying performances. Participatory engagement during auditions aims to magnify the reach of potential artists, giving their music the platform to resonate globally.
Whether attendees come to see their favorite artists perform or to discover the next big thing live on stage, Summer Sonic 2025 promises to be memorable. Mark the dates on your calendar: August 16 and 17, and prepare for what could be another landmark year for the festival.
The window for auditions is not just about entering for performance slots but also opens doors to opportunities beyond the festival, such as involvement with various music events facilitated by CreativeMan Productions. This can lead to contracts and engagements with the music industry, helping upcoming artists flourish.
Prospective participants are encouraged to apply, and festival organizers hope to discover extraordinary talent capable of influencing and exciting the global music scene. The reasons for participating are endless—whether to stand on big stages or to share love for music with the world, everyone has their unique motivations, and the Summer Sonic team is dedicated to supporting these ambitions.
For more details on the festival and the audition process, fans and aspiring musicians can follow updates on the respective websites, ensuring they don't miss out on what promises to be one of the most exciting events of 2025.