A Stellar Lineup of Americana and Bluegrass Music
Bonded Spirit 2025 boasts an impressive artist lineup, bringing together Grammy-nominated musicians, emerging talents, and established names in the Americana and Bluegrass scene. The three headliners promise to deliver soulful, high-energy performances that complement the festival’s bourbon-forward atmosphere.
ROB ICKES AND TREY HENSLEY
Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley are a powerhouse acoustic duo blending bluegrass, country, blues, rock, and jamgrass with virtuosic musicianship and soulful vocals. Ickes, a 15-time IBMA Dobro Player of the Year and former Blue Highway member, has worked with legends like Earl Scruggs and Alison Krauss, while Hensley, a Tennessee-born guitar prodigy who debuted at the Grand Ole Opry at 11, has played alongside Johnny Cash and Peter Frampton. Their critically acclaimed albums on Compass Records include the GRAMMY®-nominated Before The Sun Goes Down and World Full of Blues, featuring Vince Gill and Taj Mahal. Collaborating with Tommy Emmanuel on a special EP, they’ve electrified audiences worldwide, with their latest album produced by GRAMMY® winner Brent Maher set for release in early 2023.
Lindsay Lou
With a voice that’s been described as “molasses-sweet”, Lindsay Lou blends folk, bluegrass, and progressive Americana into a sound that is both soulful and deeply personal. Her latest album, Queen of Time, explores themes of love, resilience, and transformation, inspired by personal loss and a spiritual awakening. Named one of NPR’s best live performers, she has collaborated with icons like Billy Strings and Jerry Douglas, making her one of the most exciting voices in modern Americana.
The Brothers Comatose
This San Francisco-based band is known for their infectious blend of Americana, folk, and bluegrass, featuring tight harmonies, virtuosic string instrumentation, and raucous live energy. With Addie Levy recently joining the group as a mandolin player and vocalist, their 2025 performance will bring an even richer dynamic. Fans can expect a high-energy set filled with storytelling, rollicking rhythms, and audience engagement that embodies the spirit of classic bluegrass with a modern twist.
Bonded Spirit Music Festival returns to Covington, Kentucky, on March 8, 2025, bringing an electrifying mix of bourbon, Americana, and Bluegrass to the historic Roebling Bridge area.
This one-day festival celebrates Kentucky’s bourbon heritage while showcasing top-tier musicians who embody the soul of American roots music. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur, a live music enthusiast, or simply looking for an unforgettable festival experience, Bonded Spirit 2025 promises an immersive blend of tradition, storytelling, and world-class performances.
A Bourbon Festival Rooted in History
Bonded Spirit isn’t just a name—it’s a tribute to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, a landmark law that guaranteed bourbon authenticity and quality. John G. Carlisle, a Covington native, was instrumental in passing this legislation, ensuring that American whiskey met strict standards. The festival pays homage to this legacy by offering a wide selection of bottled-in-bond bourbons, alongside other premium Kentucky whiskeys.
Expect a deep dive into bourbon culture, with:
Special cocktails with New Riff Bourbon
Special bottled-in-bond releases
Opportunities to meet fellow Bourbon drinkers
Whether you prefer smooth caramel notes, bold spice, or complex oak-aged flavors, this festival is a paradise for bourbon lovers.
Smoke Justis: The Exclusive Venue Partner
Every year this event is held at Smoke Justis, Covington’s home for Smooth Bourbon and Smoked Meats. Known for their legendary smoked meats and extensive bourbon collection, they’ll be serving up:
Signature smoked meats
Crafted bourbon cocktails
Whether you’re pairing a pour of bottled-in-bond bourbon with a plate of smoked wings or grabbing a quick bite between sets, Smoke Justis guarantees that festival-goers will experience the best of Kentucky’s bourbon and barbecue scene.
A Historic Venue with Iconic Views
Bonded Spirit 2025 is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Roebling Bridge, an iconic symbol of Covington. With sweeping views of the Ohio River, festival attendees will enjoy a setting that perfectly blends Kentucky history with contemporary celebration. The festival grounds offer:
An intimate yet lively outdoor setting
Easy access to Covington’s bourbon bars and distilleries
A vibrant atmosphere that enhances the festival experience
Tickets & Event Details
With an incredible lineup, exclusive bourbon tastings, and Smoke Justis’ legendary smoked meats, Bonded Spirit 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
Location: Covington, Kentucky (near the Roebling Bridge)
Tickets: Available here.
VIP packages will include:
✔ Exclusive bourbon tastings
✔ Priority seating for live performances
✔ Meet-and-greet opportunities with artists and distillers
Why You Can’t Miss Bonded Spirit 2025
Bonded Spirit isn’t just another music festival—it’s a celebration of Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, a showcase of world-class Americana and Bluegrass artists, and an immersive experience unlike any other. Whether you’re sipping bottled-in-bond whiskey, stomping your feet to live bluegrass, or enjoying slow-smoked brisket from Smoke Justis, this festival captures the true essence of Kentucky culture.
Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to visit bondedspirit.com for updates and availability.
Don’t miss out on this perfect blend of bourbon, music, and history—see you at Bonded Spirit 2025!