Illawarra Music Fans Prepare for Hottest 100 Countdown This Weekend
With the votes officially tallied and sunny weather forecast, music enthusiasts throughout the Illawarra are organising for a vibrant Saturday filled with iconic tunes. The annual Triple J Hottest 100 countdown, featuring the top 100 songs of 2025 as selected by listeners nationwide, is scheduled to commence at 12pm.
Venues Across the Region Host Festive Listening Events
Following recent wet conditions, numerous venues across the Illawarra have promoted listening parties for residents planning to spend their Saturday locally. For those eager to avoid post-countdown cleanup duties at home, eight Illawarra venues are offering dedicated events. Additionally, music lovers further south can join a listening party in Berry, bringing the total to nine locations across the region.
These gatherings provide an ideal opportunity for community members to come together and celebrate Australia's beloved musical tradition in a lively, social atmosphere.
South Coast Artists Shine in Hottest 100 Legacy
The South Coast has a rich history of representation in the Hottest 100, with artists like Windang's Hockey Dad exemplifying local talent. The duo has arguably risen to become Wollongong's most prominent band since Tumbleweed, potentially surpassing the Tarrawanna group in popularity.
Despite performing internationally, Hockey Dad members Zach Stephenson and Billy Fleming maintain their roots in Wollongong. In a 2021 interview, guitarist and vocalist Zach Stephenson reflected on the pressure felt after their songs charted in the Hottest 100.
"I felt the pressure straight after we had some songs in the Hottest 100 and trying to write songs for this record," Stephenson shared. "I felt a little bit of pressure from myself, thinking 'surely I can't write a song as good as that one again'."
This sentiment highlights the significant impact that Hottest 100 recognition can have on artists, driving them to continually produce high-quality music.
A Community Celebration of Australian Music
The Hottest 100 countdown remains a cornerstone of Australian music culture, uniting listeners across generations. This Saturday's events in the Illawarra not only offer a chance to enjoy the countdown but also support local venues and celebrate the region's musical contributions.
Whether attending a listening party or tuning in from home, the Illawarra community is set for a day of musical celebration and regional pride.
