For over a decade, the California Roots Music & Arts Festival has been the ultimate destination for reggae, rock, and hip-hop lovers, bringing together legendary artists and fans for an unforgettable weekend of music and community.
Held annually at the Monterey County Fairgrounds, the festival has become a staple in the scene, known for its laid-back vibes, sustainability efforts, and top-tier performances. As it gears up for its 2025 edition, Cali Roots continues to elevate its lineup while staying true to its mission of supporting both established and emerging talent.
Fans to Choose Six Emerging Bands for the OG Stage at Cali Roots 2025
The California Roots Music & Arts Festival is once again giving up-and-coming artists a shot at the big stage with the return of the Cali Roots Wild Card Contest for 2025. The fan-powered competition will determine six independent bands to perform on the OG Stage at the legendary festival, happening May 23-25, 2025, at the Monterey County Fairgrounds.
For aspiring musicians, the Wild Card Contest is more than just a chance to play a festival—it’s an opportunity to gain exposure and showcase their sound alongside some of the biggest names in reggae, rock, and hip-hop. With fans voting to decide the winners, the contest allows the passionate Cali Roots community to help curate the lineup, ensuring fresh talent gets a moment in the spotlight.
“For us, Cali Roots has always been about the music, the fans, and the culture,” says Dan Sheehan, Producer & Owner of California Roots and Good Vibez Presents. “The Wild Card Contest is our way of giving emerging artists a platform to share their music and connect with our community. The fans get to decide, and that’s what makes this contest so special—we’re bringing them into the process and letting them help shape the lineup.”
2025 Lineup Brings the Heat
Beyond the Wild Card winners, Cali Roots 2025 is stacking the bill with an incredible lineup of festival heavyweights and rising stars:
Friday, May 23:
Rebelution, Buju Banton, Rome, Collie Buddz, The Elovaters, Protoje, The Hip Abduction, Shwayze, Bumpin Uglies, Joe Samba, Rik Jam, and Dubbest.
Saturday, May 24:
Slightly Stoopid, Iration, Atmosphere, J Boog, The Movement, Anthony B, Mike Love & the Full Circle, Tarrus Riley, Fia, Surfer Girl, Boostive, and Estrella.
Sunday, May 25:
Dirty Heads, T-Pain, SOJA, Common Kings, Steel Pulse, Matisyahu, Eli-Mac, Landon McNamara, Lila Ike, aurorawave, Josh Heinrichs, Cydeways, and Sensory Tribe.
With a lineup like this, California Roots 2025 is shaping up to be another unforgettable weekend filled with music, art, and good vibes. The Wild Card Contest is the perfect way for fresh talent to join the action and share the stage with some of the most influential artists in the scene.
How to Enter & Vote
Bands interested in throwing their name in the ring can submit their music now at CaliforniaRootsFestival.com. The contest is open to independent and unsigned bands, and once submissions close, the public will vote for their favorites. The top six acts with the most fan support will secure a slot on the OG Stage at the festival.
Fans can stay up to date on voting dates, contest updates, and lineup announcements by following @calirootsfest on social media and visiting californiarootsfestival.com.
About Good Vibez Presents
Good Vibez Presents, the team behind California Roots, is dedicated to producing unforgettable music experiences that foster community and culture. Helmed by Dan and Amy Sheehan, Good Vibez is responsible for Holo Holo Festival and other top-tier events, ensuring that each show not only delivers incredible music but also leaves a positive impact on local communities through sustainability efforts and nonprofit partnerships.
For any band dreaming of making their mark on the Cali Roots legacy, the Wild Card Contest is the gateway to the experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of reggae rock history!
