Ottawa Bluesfest 2025 [Day 9]

After nine days of non-stop music and memories, Ottawa Bluesfest 2025 came to a close on July 20 with an unforgettable final night.
Headlining the RBC Stage was none other than Kaytranada.
An artist I was especially excited to see.
His set brought a vibrant mix of electronic and dance grooves that had the entire crowd moving.
From remixes of Janet Jackson’s If to tracks off Bubba and Timeless, it was impossible not to dance.

Just before Kaytranada, the genre-blurring jazz/electronic group BADBADNOTGOOD took to the stage.
It was a treat to photograph them while it was still daylight which is a rare opportunity.
I was thrilled to catch Speaking Gently live, but unfortunately had to cut the set short as dark clouds rolled in, followed by a quick but intense downpour.

Opening the night on the RBC Stage was Montreal’s Lou Phelps, who also happens to be Kaytranada’s brother.
His energetic hip-hop and dance-infused performance was a perfect warm-up for the evening ahead.

Meanwhile, over at the River Stage, singer-songwriters Nolan Hubbard and Ireland’s Darren Kiely performed earlier in the day.
Sadly, I missed Tim Baker’s set, but the vibe throughout the festival grounds remained upbeat and celebratory.


Caught parts of Catriona Sturton at the Barney Danson Theatre.

All in all, it was a fantastic way to wrap up Bluesfest 2025—a festival full of diverse sounds, surprises, and standout performances.

Ottawa Bluesfest 2025 [Day 9]

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