Clemson Music Fest Returns April 11-12, 2025 with Jessie Murph, The All-American Rejects, BigXthaPlug Headlining

CLEMSON, S.C. – Clemson University, in partnership with Southern Entertainment and with significant support from the City of Clemson, has officially announced the dates and initial lineup for the second-annual Clemson Music Fest (CMF). The highly anticipated two-day festival is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 11, and Saturday, April 12, 2025, promising a weekend of diverse musical performances and community engagement.

The festival will once again be hosted at the Upper Intramural Field on the campus of Clemson University, utilizing the expansive outdoor space to accommodate attendees and multiple stages. The choice of venue highlights the integral role the university plays in hosting this large-scale public event.

Anticipating the 2025 Lineup

The core of the announcement centers on the confirmation of the first wave of headliners for the 2025 iteration. Leading the bill are contemporary pop sensation Jessie Murph, iconic rock band The All-American Rejects, and rising hip-hop artist BigXthaPlug. This diverse trio suggests a programming strategy aimed at appealing to a wide array of musical tastes, building upon the multi-genre approach seen in the inaugural event.

Jessie Murph, known for her raw lyrics and country-pop blend, has rapidly ascended in popularity. The All-American Rejects bring a wealth of experience and a catalog of chart-topping hits from their decades-long career. BigXthaPlug represents the vibrant and evolving landscape of modern hip-hop. Further artist additions across various genres are expected to be announced as the festival dates approach.

Building on Inaugural Success

The decision to host the second-annual CMF follows the considerable success of the inaugural festival, held in April 2024. That event, which featured headliners T-Pain, Mt. Joy, and Two Friends, drew an impressive crowd of 11,500 fans over its duration. Attendees enjoyed over 15 hours of live music across the weekend, setting a strong precedent for future installments.

Organizers are keen to leverage the positive reception and operational experience gained from the 2024 festival to enhance the 2025 event. Lessons learned from managing logistics, crowd flow, and vendor coordination during the inaugural CMF are expected to contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable experience for the larger anticipated crowd in 2025.

Perspectives from Leadership

University and festival leadership expressed enthusiasm for the continuation and growth of the event. Doug Hallenbeck, Vice President for Student Affairs at Clemson University, emphasized the festival’s role beyond just entertainment.

“This event offers our students an incredible opportunity to create lasting memories and be part of a growing tradition here at Clemson,” Hallenbeck stated. “It’s more than just a concert; it’s a chance for our university community and the wider public to come together and experience something special on our campus.”

Bob Durkin, a festival organizer and co-founder of Southern Entertainment, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the event.

“Clemson Music Fest was envisioned as a signature event, created in partnership with TRZ Management and Clemson University, to provide an unforgettable weekend for both students and the broader community,” Durkin said. “Seeing the energy and turnout last year confirmed the demand, and we are excited to bring an even stronger lineup and experience in 2025.”

Beyond the Music

While music remains the central focus, the Clemson Music Fest is designed as a comprehensive cultural experience. The 2025 festival is slated to include a variety of supplementary attractions aimed at enhancing the attendee experience.

Patrons can expect a curated selection of local food vendors offering diverse culinary options, celebrating regional flavors and supporting local businesses. Art installations will be strategically placed throughout the festival grounds, providing visual stimulation and opportunities for interaction. Additionally, various interactive activities are planned, intended to engage attendees between musical sets and foster a lively, communal atmosphere.

Economic and Community Impact

The festival’s return is also significant for the local economy and community. Attracting thousands of attendees, CMF stimulates activity for local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments. The partnership between the university, the City of Clemson, and private organizers underscores a collaborative approach to bringing major cultural events to the region, enhancing its profile as a destination for entertainment.

Tickets for the second-annual Clemson Music Fest are expected to go on sale in the coming months, with details on pricing tiers and availability to be announced via official festival channels. Organizers encourage prospective attendees to follow official announcements for the latest information regarding the lineup, schedule, and ticketing.