Support Us Button Widget

What artists should play Tampa’s new country music festival?

We asked our readers who should take the stage for the incoming May 2025 show.

Country artist Chris Stapleton dons a hat and black suit while singing into a microphone and playing a guitar at a show.

Chris Stapleton could serenade us from the Ray Jay stage.

Photo via Wikimedia Commons

The news about Tampa scoring “one of North America’s most beloved music festival brands” kind of broke the internet last week. That can only mean one thing: Our readers really love their country bops.

We’re still waiting on more news about the incoming festival — which is slated for May 2025. But in the meantime, we’re sharing some of the superstars our readers want to take the stage.

The most popular suggestions on the list were:

  • Chris Stapleton
  • Kacey Musgraves
  • Morgan Wallen
  • Zach Bryan
  • Lainey Wilson
  • Post Malone
  • Luke Combs

And, in case you’d prefer to listen along, we created a playlist of what the rockin’ Ray Jay show could sound like if our readers crafted the lineup.

    Events
    From Oktoberfest celebrations to mural festivals, we’ve got you covered.
    The horror park opens for the season on Friday, Sept. 8.
    You’ve got an extra day this weekend, and we’ve got nine ways to use it.
    National Dog Day is this Saturday, Aug. 26.
    Put concerts like The Smashing Pumpkins, Playboi Carti, and Jelly Roll on your calendar.
    We’ve got intel on Queen Bey-themed drinks around Tampa Bay, where to park, and how to best party all night.
    This year’s celebrations include $8.13 deals at Sparkman Wharf, free Jeni’s scoops, and plenty of Hillsborough pride.
    Need a little comedic relief (or just looking for air-conditioned activities)? We’ve got improv shows, a visit from SNL alum Seth Meyers, and a show at the Imagine Museum.
    Get kids ready for the school year with school supply giveaways, health clinics, and parties.
    Explore TBAY through its history, food, drink, and art on these tours.