The Australian Open 2025 isn't solely about tennis. It's also about the festival experience. The AO Live Music event brings some of the best international and local artists to Melbourne from January 23 to January 25.
This three-day festival, which takes place at John Cain Arena, features pop, electronic, and dance artists. With something for everyone, fans can enjoy music, food, entertainment, and the atmosphere of the Australian Open.
Let's review the lineup, schedule, and practical tips for attending AO Live Music.
AO Live Music Festival Lineup
As with any music festival, the lineup is hugely important. Fortunately, this year, the AO Live Music 2025 lineup is packed with some of the best names in music, offering three days of great entertainment for fans.
Here's who's headlining the event and what you can expect each day.
Thursday, January 23: Benson Boone
The American pop sensation has quickly risen to fame with hits like "Ghost Town" and "In the Stars." With nearly 2 billion streams and a quickly growing fanbase, Boone is sure to bring a blast of youthful energy to the event and kick the whole thing off with a bang.
Benson Boone is just 21 years old. He became popular from his TikTok and after appearing on American Idol. His emotive lyrics and relatable lyrics helped propel his single "Ghost Town" to chart success. After that, he followed up with "In the Stars" and "Beautiful Things". With heartfelt ballads and upbeat albums, expect a high-energy performance from Boone.
AO Live Music offers a rare opportunity to see one of pop music's fastest-rising stars in an arena setting.
Listen to Benson Boone's "Beautiful Things" here.
Friday, January 24: Kaytranada
Grammy-winning producer and DJ Kaytranada will host the festival's second day. John Cain Arena will certainly move with his signature blend of house, hip-hop, and electronic beats.
The Canadian producer and DJ is best known for his genre-bending sound, which fuses house, hip-hop, and R&B. He's also won two Grammy Awards, including Best Dance/Electronic Album for the 2019 record BUBBA.
He's a leading figure in the electronic music scene. He has showcased his versatility and talent through collaborations with artists like Anderson .Paak, H.E.R., and Ruel.
His sets are known for infectious grooves, smooth transitions, and impeccable mixing. You'll likely hear hit tracks like “10%”, “Glowed Up”, and “You're the One”, with remixes and other surprises.
Here's Kaytranada with Childish Gambino.
Saturday, January 25: Kesha and Armand Van Helden
After a seven-year hiatus, Kesha is back and headlining the festival's final day. The artist, famous for hits like "Tik Tok" and "Praying", is returning to the stage amidst much anticipation and excitement.
Kesha's catchy hooks, empowering lyrics, and dynamic stage presence have earned her plenty of fans worldwide, and her return has been much anticipated.
Expect a high-energy, celebratory spectacle with glitter, fun, and unapologetic confidence. The setlist will undoubtedly combine her greatest hits and provide a joyous celebration that closes out the festival on a high note.
Remember when Tik Tok was just the name of a Kesha song?
The last night will also feature the legendary DJ Armand Van Helden, who is famous for club anthems like "My My My" and "You Don't Know Me."
Armand Van Helden has been making house music since the 1990s; many of his tracks are dancefloor staples. Get ready for catchy hooks, deep grooves, and music that keeps crowds moving all night.
Expect a classic and contemporary house music masterclass, with iconic hits alongside fresh remixes and dance anthems.
The festival's final night also coincides with the women's singles final.
Here's Armand van Helden with Dizzee Rascal on the track "Bonkers".
AO Live Music Event Schedule and Venue Details
Here are the key event details at a glance, which are different to the dates of the whole Australian Open tournament.
Dates and Headliners
- Thursday, January 23: Benson Boone
- Friday, January 24: Kaytranada
- Saturday, January 25: Kesha and Armand Van Helden
Venue
John Cain Arena at Melbourne Park. This iconic arena is known for its retractable roof, ensuring the event goes on rain or shine.
Tickets and Passes
So you've decided you'd like to attend. Here's how.
Tickets start at $89, and they include a Ground Pass for the Australian Open. This pass allows you to enjoy both tennis and live music.
Tickets can be purchased from the official Australian Open website or Ticketmaster. These events are incredibly popular, and tickets sell out fast.
Where to Stay for AO Live Music
For those from outside of Melbourne, there are several great accommodation options. Whether you need luxury, convenience, or something on a budget, there are places to stay.
Luxury Accommodation
Here are a few 4- or 5-star hotels in Melbourne.
The Langham, Melbourne
- Distance: 10-minute drive or 25-minute walk to John Cain Arena
- Highlights: Elegant rooms, stunning city views, spa facilities, and fine dining.
- Why Stay Here: A perfect blend of luxury and convenience, with easy access to the tournament and festival.
Crown Towers Melbourne
- Distance: 12-minute drive or 30-minute walk
- Highlights: Five-star luxury with spacious rooms, premium restaurants, a rooftop pool, and a world-class casino.
- Why Stay Here: Ideal for those looking to combine their AO Live Music trip with Melbourne’s nightlife and entertainment.
Park Hyatt Melbourne
- Distance: 10-minute drive or 20-minute tram ride
- Highlights: Sophisticated décor, spa services, and a tranquil garden setting.
- Why Stay Here: A serene escape after a lively day of top-level tennis from the best and live music.
Mid-Range Hotels
These 3- and 4-star hotels balance comfort, quality, and affordability.
Novotel Melbourne on Collins
- Distance: 15-minute tram ride or 10-minute drive
- Highlights: Modern rooms, gym facilities, and a central location close to shops and restaurants.
- Why Stay Here: Convenient access to public transport for easy travel to John Cain Arena.
Rydges Melbourne
- Distance: 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk
- Highlights: Rooftop pool, contemporary design, and close proximity to Melbourne's theatre district.
- Why Stay Here: A comfortable stay within walking distance of Melbourne Park.
Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne Southbank
- Distance: 15-minute walk to John Cain Arena
- Highlights: Self-contained apartments with kitchen facilities, ideal for longer stays.
- Why Stay Here: Great for families or groups attending AO Live Music and the 2025 Australian Open.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation
If you want to save money for the music, tennis, or other entertainment. Here are some places you can stay on a budget.
Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD
- Distance: 15-minute tram ride or 10-minute drive
- Highlights: Clean, simple rooms with essential amenities.
- Why Stay Here: Ideal for travellers who plan to spend most of their time at the event.
City Square Motel
- Distance: 15-minute walk or 5-minute tram ride
- Highlights: Affordable rates, free Wi-Fi, and a central location.
- Why Stay Here: Perfect for those who want to be close to the action while sticking to a budget.
Space Hotel
- Distance: 15-minute drive or tram ride
- Highlights: Hostel-style accommodation with private and shared rooms, a rooftop deck, and a communal kitchen.
- Why Stay Here: Great for solo travellers or groups looking for a social atmosphere.
fans attended the Australian Open.
Getting to AO Live Music
Thanks to the Australian Open's central location and, subsequently, AO Live Music, it's relatively easy to get there.
Getting to AO Live Music By Public Transport
You can take the train to Flinders Street Station, Jolimont Station, or Richmond Station. It's a short walk to John Cain Arena from any of these stations.
You can also use Route 70 and 70a trams, which run directly to the venue. Tram travel is free during the tournament for AO ticket holders.
Parking for the Australian Open and AO Live Music
If you're travelling there by car, there's limited parking available at the Yarra Park Car Park near the venue. However, we'd recommend using public transport, taxis, or an Uber to get there.
There's also bicycle parking near the Melbourne Park entrance if you want to cycle to and from the event.
What to Expect at AO Live Music
Though live music is in the event's name, there's more to it than just the music. This is a full festival experience.
Food and Drink
At AO Live Music, you can enjoy gourmet food trucks, pop-up bars, and a range of culinary delights, so you won't be hungry during the event.
You can enjoy some of Melbourne's best street food and refreshments between performances.
The Festival Atmosphere
The event is a festival but part of the Australian Open, which brings music and sport together. This is a unique event that's fun, colourful, and buzzing with excitement for artistic and sporting performances.
Other Entertainment
The headline acts aren't the only artists performing, so be sure to see what else is going on around the venue. Families can enjoy the AO Ballpark, while the AO Live Stage also has live acts during the tournament.
Why You Should Go to AO Live Music 2025
There are plenty of reasons that AO Live Music 2025 is worth attending.
For one, it's a one-of-a-kind festival at and during the Australian Open, a Grand Slam event and the first major tennis tournament on the calendar.
It also features a world-class lineup of artists like Armand Van Helden, Benson Boone, and Kesha, allowing for twice as much fun: live music and thrilling tennis matches.
This is perfect for fans of tennis or music. Whether you love tennis or both, AO Live offers a perfect mix. And if you're looking to enhance your game, consider exploring tennis coaching near me.
From January 23 to January 25 at John Cain Arena, you can enjoy incredible acts, a festival atmosphere, and the highest levels of tennis.
If you are inspired by music and tennis, and you would like to start tennis lessons in Sydney or anywhere in Australia, visit Superprof and find a long list of local tennis coaches ready to start lessons with you today!
If you're in Melbourne and looking to sharpen your skills off the court, consider checking out a local tennis class melbourne.
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