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Bluesfest 2025 Day 7: Greenday Ignites the Biggest Night Yet
Bluesfest 2025 Day 7 was the kind of festival day you dream about. Clear skies, a stacked lineup, and a headliner that delivered fireworks – literally. Greenday took center stage in what many are calling the most electrifying night of the event so far. With pyro, crowd interaction, political heat, and a fanbase singing every word, the legends reminded us exactly why they’re still one of the most iconic bands in rock.
But this wasn’t just Greenday’s night. From punk trios and jazzy showstoppers to Grammy-level funk and local heroes, Day 7 gave us nonstop highlights across every corner of LeBreton Flats. Let’s dive into what made the day so unforgettable.
The Commotions Bring Soulful Swagger and Crowd Favorites
Ottawa’s own The Commotions lit up the tent stage with their signature blend of funk, soul, and smooth charisma. A beloved returning act at Bluesfest, they’ve built a reputation for getting the crowd moving, and this year was no exception. They leaned into their latest project, The Commotions Vol 3, offering tight arrangements, slick horn sections, and vocals that melted effortlessly into the mix.
Their chemistry on stage was undeniable. Between songs, they hinted at new material in the works, teasing the possibility of fresh grooves on the horizon. The crowd soaked in every note, dancing and swaying under the lights. Whether you were a longtime fan or a first-time listener, it was impossible not to be drawn into their soulful world.
Les Shirley Rip Into Bluesfest with Punk-Rock Fire
Les Shirley didn’t come to play—they came to conquer. The Montreal-based trio stormed onto the stage with raw energy and attitude. This show marked their 20th performance in five weeks, but you would never guess it from the tightness of their sound and sheer enthusiasm. Blending riot grrrl energy with modern punk punch, they tore through their set like they were headlining the night.
Their ability to connect with the crowd was immediate. Shredding guitar riffs, hard-hitting drums, and gritty, infectious vocals sent a surge of energy through the field. Les Shirley left fans breathless and wanting more. They’re loud, proud, and clearly on an unstoppable rise.
Four Eyed Muscle Man Sets a New Standard for Opening Sets
Opening the River Stage isn’t always easy—but Four Eyed Muscle Man made it look like the main event. Fronted by a powerful female vocalist and anchored by a bassist with boundless stage energy, the band brought their A-game. Their sound was a punchy mix of rock grit and melodic flair, instantly grabbing attention from the largest early-day crowd seen at the River Stage all festival.
The performance felt like a mission statement. Every member looked like they were having the time of their life, and the crowd responded in kind—clapping, head-bobbing, and fully locked in. Four Eyed Muscle Man made a big impression, and if this set was your first exposure, it definitely won’t be your last.
Jahmeema Blends Jazz Soul and Visual Magic
Jahmeema was the first to grace the Barney Danson Theatre stage, and she made a statement before even singing a note. Draped in a plush fur coat and backed by a talented pianist and sax player, her presence was commanding. Her sound, a rich blend of jazz, soul, and storytelling, brought a sense of cool to the evening.
What really tied the set together was the moody lighting that enhanced every note and lyric. The space felt transformed into a swanky underground club, drawing the audience in for an intimate, emotionally charged experience. Her voice was a highlight of the day, equal parts velvet and power.
Fantastic Negrito Makes a Statement Without Saying a Word
Fantastic Negrito didn’t need an introduction. From the moment he hit the stage in a flamboyant, dazzling outfit, it was obvious something special was about to unfold. His blend of blues, funk, jazz, and rock created an explosive sound that demanded attention. Every track oozed personality, purpose, and a level of musicianship few can match.
A surprise highlight? Mike Dirnt from Greenday casually watching the set from the side – unnoticed by most but very real. It was a set full of rhythm, heart, and powerful grooves that pulled people out of their seats. A performance that earned new fans and reminded longtime listeners why Fantastic Negrito’s name belongs in the Grammy conversation.
The Linda Lindas Prove Punk Rock Is Alive and Loud
The Linda Lindas blasted onto the main stage with the energy of a high-speed train. The band, made up of young women who previously opened for Greenday, finally got their full hour in the spotlight, and they didn’t waste a second. Their youthful rage and lightning-fast setlist gave the crowd a punk-fueled jolt of adrenaline.
They weren’t shy about expressing their political views, taking jabs at “The Orange Man” and closing with their viral anthem Racist, Sexist Boy. Their defiance was met with cheers, and their skill made clear they’re more than just viral sensations – they’re the future of punk.
Los Bitchos Close Out Canada with Pure Groove
With this being their final day in Canada for the tour, Los Bitchos brought a celebratory vibe to the festival. The all-female band, with one male guitarist in tow, delivered a genre-blending instrumental set that was both chill and danceable. Their stage presence was magnetic, and their chemistry was undeniable.
The lead guitarist stood out with riffs that carried the entire set, but the highlight was the collective vocals – a layered sound that washed over the crowd in waves. Los Bitchos turned the field into an impromptu dance party and earned a few hundred new fans in the process.
N’nerjie Proves Less Is More with Voice and Vibe
Armed with only a DJ and her voice, N’nerjie commanded a full house with bold confidence. Her outfit popped with bright colors that reflected her radiant energy, and her voice, oh, her voice, was a showstopper. Deep, controlled, and emotionally resonant, it cut through the air like lightning.
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Ron Sexsmith Closes the Tent with Gentle Mastery
Ron Sexsmith delivered a calm, reflective close to the tent stage. The acoustic-driven set was stripped down but rich with emotion and sincerity. Fans gathered shoulder to shoulder, hanging onto every lyric and melody from the Canadian icon.
The floor bass player added surprising depth, giving old favorites a new twist. Ron also shared that a new album is on the way, giving longtime fans even more reason to smile. It was a perfect wind-down, and a reminder that sometimes the quietest sets leave the loudest impact.
Dwayne Gretzky Shocks and Shines in Greenday’s Shadow
Performing at the same time as Greenday is no easy task – but Dwayne Gretzky delivered a show worthy of its own headline. Known for their dynamic covers, they gave classic tracks a new life with impressive precision and soulful flair. Owner of a Lonely Heart got one of the loudest reactions of the night.
The crowd might have been smaller, but it was mighty. Many walked away buzzing about this underdog set, marveling at the musicianship and visual storytelling. Dwayne Gretzky proved you don’t need fireworks to leave an explosive impression.
Greenday Lights Up Ottawa with Fireworks and Fan Dreams
The second Greenday took the stage, Bluesfest 2025 Day 7 entered another stratosphere. The crowd sang every word of Bohemian Rhapsody before the band even appeared. Then came American Idiot, pyro, and chaos – in the best way possible. Billie Joe worked the catwalk with energy only he can deliver, pulling fans into his orbit.
One young fan was pulled on stage to sing with the band – her joy was infectious. The band rolled through hit after hit, from Welcome to Paradise to Boulevard of Broken Dreams, each song backed by massive visuals from their custom camera setup. Political messages were laced throughout, but never overshadowed the fun. Greenday reminded us all what a legendary rock show should feel like.
Bluesfest 2025 Day 7 Set the Bar Sky High
From sunup to fireworks, Bluesfest 2025 Day 7 was a nonstop thrill ride. Greenday delivered the main event, but it was the variety and strength of every performance that made the day so special. Whether it was a jazz solo in the theatre, a punk scream in the pit, or a soul groove under the tent, the magic of Day 7 lived in every corner of the festival grounds.
Tomorrow brings Bluesfest 2025 Day 8, and with Papa Roach and Daughtry ready to take over, expectations couldn’t be higher. If tonight proved anything, it’s that Bluesfest still has plenty of heat left to give.
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