Australia’s biggest night in music, the ARIA Music Awards, drew plenty of stars to Sydney this week. Model Tyra Banks and UK artist Olivia Dean were among the notable attendees, ready to celebrate local talent.
The event, held at Hordern Pavilion, showcased nearly 30 award categories, highlighting the best in Australian music. Adam Hyde, known as Keli Holiday, kicked off the evening with his hit “Dancing2,” energizing the crowd with a call to “stand up for Australian music.” He shared the stage with artists like Baker Boy and G-Flip, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Olivia Dean, Missy Higgins, and Young Franco also performed, adding to the night’s entertainment. Higgins used her platform to advocate for better support of local artists in streaming playlists, a sentiment echoed by singer Phil Jamieson from Grinspoon. Interestingly, the Australian government recently announced new local content regulations for streaming services, but there are still no audio quotas in place for platforms like Spotify.
This year’s event marked a significant moment for rock band You Am I, who were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. Frontman Tim Rogers reflected on this achievement, expressing gratitude for the recognition amid challenges faced by independent musicians. “We’re giddy and grateful,” he said, highlighting the unpredictable journey of their career.
However, the collaboration with Spotify sparked some controversy. Melbourne band Gut Health, nominated for a breakthrough artist award, voiced concerns about Spotify’s streaming practices. They acknowledged the platform’s global reach but criticized its royalty system, which often makes it difficult for artists to earn a fair income.
In defense of the partnership, Spotify’s Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand emphasized the platform’s commitment to promoting Australian artists on the international stage. ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd supported this view, highlighting that global exposure is essential for success in today’s music landscape.
As artists and fans reflect on the night’s events, the ARIA Music Awards continue to play a crucial role in the recognition and celebration of Australia’s musical talent.
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Hordern Pavilion, Olivia Dean, 2025 ARIA Music Awards, Missy Higgins, ARIA Hall of Fame, Keli Holiday, ARIA awards, Christian Gilles, Australian music, Tyra Banks
