Marcus Kinghas called off his upcoming overseas tour in the wake of the recent news surrounding the cancellation of the iconic Byron Bay Bluesfest in Australia. The Grammy-nominated country and Southern rock artist and founder of theMarcus King Band, 30, announced his regretful decision in a post on social media.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, March, and directing his message to the fans, King wrote, "Hi everyone, there's nothing in the world we hate more than having to cancel a show, let alone an entire tour. But sometimes the business side of things just doesn't line up with our desire [and] need to play for as many of you amazing folks as possible."
"With that, we sadly must announce that due to the cancellation of Bluesfest, we won't be able to go on with our planned Australia and New Zealand run," he added.
King went on to say that the popular, long-runningmusicfestival was central to booking an overseas run, and missing the event disrupts the original schedule.
"Bluesfest was the anchor for our trip, and without that, it just isn't possible," he noted before adding, "We will be back, and we will get together again next get down — down under."
He Plans to Return in the Future
"We will be back soon!" He further promised alongside his post, which earned responses of both heartbreak and support from his fans and followers.
"💔 Devastated!" One person commented below the post. "Butttt will still be first in line for the next NZ tour announcement 😍."
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Another follower added, "We love ya down here, mate! Such a blow for us all losing Bluesfest, but I know there is an audience here awaiting your return when the time is right. 🙌🙌"
"Bummer!" A third fan chimed in.
The Music Festival Was Canceled for Various Reasons
According toRolling Stone Australia, Bluesfest 2026 was supposed to run from April 2-5, but was called off for reasons that included: "rising production, logistics, insurance and touring costs, combined with softer ticket demand and international uncertainties."
Affected dates of King's tour included stops at The Powerstation in Auckland, New Zealand, on April 1; the Enmore Theatre in Sydney, Australia, on April 8; and Hindley Street Music Hall in Adelaide, Australia, on April 11.
King isn't the only act to cancel shows around the collapse of the music festival. Other artists, who have bowed out of Australian dates, according toBluntMag.com, includeEarth, Wind & Fire,Erykah Badu,The Wailers,Buddy Guy,Kenny Wayne Shepherd, andJerry Harrison & Adrian Belew.
For more information on King's tour, visit hisofficial website.
Related: Country Star Forced to Cancel 2026 Canadian Tour, Citing Threat to 'My Freedom': 'I'm Deeply Sorry'
This story was originally published byParadeon Mar 24, 2026, where it first appeared in theNewssection. Add Parade as aPreferred Source by clicking here.