Xavier Rudd at the ZMF 2026

When you look back on Xavier Rudd's breathtaking career, you can't help but wonder: what success can this exceptional artist still achieve? The multi-instrumentalist has long been one of the greats of the Australian music scene and has touched millions of people around the world with his unique blend of folk, reggae and world music.
Born in 1978 in the South Australian surfer's paradise of Torquay, Rudd discovered his love of music at an early age. Even as a child, he played the guitar, clarinet and, of course, the didgeridoo - which later became his trademark. His debut album "To Let" was released in 2002 and his big breakthrough was not long in coming: with "Solace" he made it into the Australian Top 20 in 2004 and achieved platinum status. His often spiritual and socially critical lyrics and his unmistakable sound quickly brought him international attention. But Xavier Rudd is not one to stand still. Even before he released his third studio album "Food In The Belly" in 2005, he released several live albums and became involved in social and ecological projects - from nature conservation to the rights of Australia's indigenous population. In the following years, he consolidated his status with the albums "White Moth" (2007) and "Dark Shades of Blue" (2008), both of which entered the top 10 of the album charts. After the 2010 album "Koonyum Sun", Rudd created one of his most extraordinary works in 2012 with "Spirit Bird" - with the sounds of over 30 Australian bird species incorporated into the music. His album "Nana" (2015) also followed a clear message: in collaboration with the United Nations, he created a work that is directed against all forms of intolerance. His two most recent albums "Storm Boy" (2018) and "Jan Juc Moon" (2022) seamlessly built on his previous successes and underpinned his reputation as one of Australia's most influential voices.
Since the beginning of his career, live performances have been an essential part of Xavier Rudd's art. After years with a full band line-up, he gradually developed his impressive one-man show: with guitar, didgeridoo, drums and harmonica - often all at the same time - he creates soundscapes that are held together by a loop station. He has already impressively demonstrated his unique stage presence at legendary festivals such as Glastonbury, Pinkpop and the Byron Bay Blues Festival, as well as on seven live albums. A concert by Xavier Rudd is far more than just music - it is a rousing experience that connects people.