The local promoters of the Rolling Loud festival have hit back after organisers blamed them for the cancellation of upcoming Australia events.
On Friday, organisers confirmed the Sydney and Melbourne shows set for March have been axed, and pointed the finger at local promoters Primuse Entertainment saying they “failed to meet critical payment deadlines and related obligations”.
In a statement given to Rolling Stone AU/NZ, Primuse responded to those claims.
“Primuse Entertainment does not accept certain aspects of the characterisation set out in Rolling Loud’s statement. While there are differing views regarding the circumstances that led to this outcome, we stand firmly by the manner in which we have conducted ourselves throughout this process,” the statement reads.
“Primuse acted in good faith throughout and made reasonable efforts to deliver a successful event for fans, artists and partners, with the intention of ensuring the festival could proceed as planned. Our immediate focus is on supporting ticket holders and working closely with the relevant parties to ensure refunds are processed as efficiently as possible.
“We remain committed to the Australian live entertainment market and to delivering high-quality experiences for audiences in the future.”
Read the full statement below.
Love Music?
Get your daily dose of everything happening in Australian/New Zealand music and globally.
The hip-hop festival made its Australian debut in 2019 with a lineup featuring the likes of Future, Lil Uzi Vert, Playboi Carti, Tyga, Smokepurpp, and local favourite Manu Crook$.
It was due to make its long-awaited return in 2024, but mere weeks after the announcement, the festival was indefinitely postponed. In October 2025, it announced its 2026 return, with the new two-day festival format.
The 2026 lineup was set to feature Gunna, Ken Carson, Sexyy Red, Tya, Swae Lee, Lil Tjay, Quavo, Hooligan Hefs, YNG Martyr, and more. It was also scheduled to have a dedicated local stage, spotlighting Australian and New Zealand hip-hop talent.
—
We are extremely disappointed by the cancellation of Rolling Loud Australia 2026.
Primuse Entertainment does not accept certain aspects of the characterisation set out in Rolling Loud’s statement. While there are differing views regarding the circumstances that led to this outcome, we stand firmly by the manner in which we have conducted ourselves throughout this process.
Primuse acted in good faith throughout and made reasonable efforts to deliver a successful event for fans, artists and partners, with the intention of ensuring the festival could proceed as planned. Our immediate focus is on supporting ticket holders and working closely with the relevant parties to ensure refunds are processed as efficiently as possible.
We remain committed to the Australian live entertainment market and to delivering high-quality experiences for audiences in the future.
Given the circumstances, we will not be making any further public comment at this time.
