Newcastle music fans pumped to see global megastar Post Malone at Strummingbird have been deflated after the Sunflower hitmaker cancelled his Australian tour.
Post Malone, real name Austin Richard Post, was booked to headline the second Strummingbird country music festival at the Newcastle Foreshore on October 17.
However, the musical chameleon has postponed all his Asian and Australian tour dates.
The promoters of Strummingbird, Live Nation subsidiary Kicks Entertainment, have replaced Post Malone with Kentucky Americana singer-songwriter Tyler Childers.
You'll be forgiven for feeling a sense of déjà vu because Childers headlined the inaugural Howlin' Country music festival, which is promoted by Newcastle businessmen Greg Mathew and Russell Richardson, only two years ago.
Wingham-raised rising country star James Johnston has also been added to the Strummingbird line-up that includes American acts Bailey Zimmerman, Cooper Alan, Stella Lefty and Texan band Dexter & The Moonrocks.
The Australian contingent includes Newcastle's Max Jackson and Brad Cox.
"We're gutted to let you know that Post Malone will no longer be headlining Strummingbird due to the recent postponement of his Asia and Australian tours," a spokesperson for Strummingbird said.
"While we are saddened by this news, we're stoked to announce that Tyler Childers (Newcastle & Sunshine Coast only), Sam Barber (Ballarat only), and James Johnston are joining the Strummingbird lineup in his place."
Refunds will be available for ticket holders before 5pm on September 3.
"The festival understands some fans may be disappointed by the news, and, due to the lineup change, Strummingbird is giving ticket holders the option to request a refund," the spokesperson said.
