Billy Strings is bringing his love of heavy music to the forefront by personally curating a metal stage for this year’s Ionia Freak Fair.
Although best known as one of bluegrass music’s biggest stars, Strings has long embraced the metal scene. Over the years, he’s performed alongside Tool and Primus, and even contributed to Cryptopsy’s 30th anniversary re-recording of Blasphemy Made Flesh in 2025.
On June 26, Strings unveiled the lineup for the festival’s Metal & Pinball Tent, which will feature performances from Bane, Cryptopsy, For The Fallen Dreams, Flesh And Blood Robot, Heartsick, and See You Next Tuesday.
Announcing the lineup, Strings shared his excitement about bringing heavy music back to his hometown roots.
“IONIA MICHIGAN!! I have been dying to let this cat of the bag!! We are throwing it back to the days of The Center, when we were throwing DIY shows and bringing some of the best heavy music to town. I’m so stoked to share this line-up that I personally curated with the help of my team and the good folks at The Pyramid Scheme. These are bands that I have loved for years and some of them are dear friends of mine that I used to play shows with 20 years ago. We are bringing some death metal, some Hardcore, some grind and more to the Ionia Freak Fair this August. Get ready for Cryptopsy, BANE, For The Fallen Dreams, Flesh And Blood Robot, See You Next Tuesday and Heartsick!”
The Ionia Freak Fair is scheduled for August 28-29 in Ionia, Michigan, with Billy Strings headlining the festival. The event will also feature performances from Greensky Bluegrass, Sierra Hull, Leftover Salmon, and several other artists.
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