Western Australia's premier community celebration, the WA Day Festival, has found its perfect embodiment in this year's headline act, acclaimed local rapper Drapht. The two-day event, shifting to a sunnier November slot for 2025, is designed as a massive showcase of homegrown talent and state pride.
A Local Hero Takes the Stage
If the spirit of WA had a voice, it might sound a lot like rapper Drapht, the festival's 2025 headliner. Born Paul Reid, the 43-year-old Doubleview father is a homegrown success story. His journey began in Perth's northern suburbs, took him through Perth Modern School, and saw him briefly undertake a roof carpentry apprenticeship before launching a full-time music career nearly two decades ago.
Now a double ARIA Award winner, famous for hits like Jimmy Recard and Rapunzel, Drapht told The West Australian that performing close to home is always special. His music, which riffs on relatable local themes from footy and Bali holidays to youth and relationships, often gets sung back to him by fans of all ages. He expressed particular excitement about a key demographic in the audience this year: his young daughter and her school friends, many of whom will be seeing him perform live for the first time.
A Festival for All of WA
Drapht will not be alone in representing the state's vibrant music scene. He is aptly supported by a powerful lineup of iconic WA acts, including rockers Jebediah and Little Birdy. The festival will also showcase emerging talent such as Ullah and Mariae Cassandra, offering a diverse musical program.
Celebrate WA chairman Scott Jones stated that the free, two-day affair is a celebration of everything that makes Western Australia unique. He emphasised that the event is designed to be accessible to everyone, featuring the state's people, culture, creativity, and local talent.
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk echoed this sentiment, highlighting the program's variety. She noted that the lineup, spanning rock, indie, hip hop, and First Nations performers, reflects the incredible diversity and creativity of WA's local music community.
Summer Skies and Secret Guests
Organisers have moved the festival from its traditional early June date to November to take advantage of clearer skies and warmer weather. This shift ensures that popular family events like the fireworks display, the mascot race, and the Hardwired BMX display will have ideal conditions. The festival will overlap with the start of the first Ashes Test at the nearby stadium, signalling the unofficial start of summer in Perth.
For Drapht, the event is a chance to champion his home state. He expressed amazement when hearing people, especially the young, call Perth boring. Having toured extensively, he insists there is literally no place like Perth in the world and that he still has to pinch himself that he gets to call it home. Adding to the excitement of his performance, the rapper teased that he will be joined on stage by a couple of special guest cameos, a secret he promises to keep until he takes the spotlight.
