vance joy

Vance Joy: The Billion-Stream Artist Who Still Chooses to Open for Ed Sheeran

When a musician’s songs rack up eight billion streams worldwide, you’d expect them to headline stadiums on their own terms. But Australian singer-songwriter Vance Joy has carved out a unique career path—one where he consistently takes the stage as the opening act for global superstars like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran, even as his own hits dominate playlists across the world.

This summer, Vance Joy returns to Australia as the special guest on Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour, performing at major venues in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. While it may seem counterintuitive for an artist of his commercial success, this decision reflects a deeper philosophy about artistry, humility, and connection that defines Joy’s approach to music.

Why Does Vance Joy Keep Opening for Ed Sheeran?

In a 2023 interview with Triple J, Vance Joy explained that his choice isn’t about modesty—it’s about reverence. “I’ve been doing this since I was 18,” he said. “Every time I get the chance to open for someone I respect, I feel like I’m learning something new.”

That humility is evident in his long-standing relationship with Ed Sheeran, who first invited Joy to join him on tour back in 2015. Since then, Joy has opened for Sheeran multiple times, including during the ÷ Tour and now the Loop Tour—a massive arena and stadium run across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.

Despite his global streaming numbers—his breakout hit “Riptide” alone has over 400 million Spotify plays—Joy remains grounded. His latest album, In Our Own Sweet Time (released in March 2024), debuted at number one on the ARIA Charts and features introspective tracks like “Clarity,” “Missing Piece,” and “Don’t Fade.” Yet, when asked why he still chooses to be the opener, Joy told news.com.au:

“Being the opener taught me how to read a crowd. It’s not just about playing your songs—it’s about building energy, creating space, and making sure the headliner’s show feels like a journey.”

This mindset sets him apart from many of his peers. Most artists of Joy’s stature would likely demand co-headlining slots or full stadium tours. Instead, he sees value in the role of the support act—not just musically, but personally.

A Career Built on Connection, Not Just Hits

Vance Joy’s rise to fame began quietly. After moving from Melbourne to Brooklyn in 2011, he released his debut EP Dream Your Life Away independently. The lead single, “Riptide,” became an overnight sensation after being featured in a viral YouTube video and later picked up by Triple J for heavy rotation.

What followed was a meteoric climb:
- 2014: “Riptide” goes multi-platinum in Australia and the UK.
- 2015: Joins Ed Sheeran on his ÷ Tour as the opening act in select cities.
- 2017: Releases sophomore album Nation of Two, which includes the hit “Georgia.”
- 2020: Collaborates with Tash Sultana and The Teskey Brothers, solidifying his place in Australia’s indie-folk scene.
- 2024: Returns to Australia as the official opener for Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour, alongside local acts like Tash Sultana and Lime Cordiale.

Throughout it all, Joy has maintained a loyal fanbase built on authenticity rather than spectacle. His lyrics—often poetic, nostalgic, and emotionally resonant—resonate deeply with listeners who appreciate storytelling over flash.

His Instagram (@vancejoy) offers a rare glimpse into his creative process: behind-the-scenes studio shots, acoustic covers, and candid reflections on life and music. With over 650K followers, he uses the platform not for promotion, but to stay connected with fans on a personal level.

The Cultural Significance of Being the Opener

In the music industry, the “opening act” label often carries baggage—seen as a stepping stone rather than a respected position. But for artists like Vance Joy, it represents something far more valuable: mentorship, exposure, and artistic growth.

By consistently choosing to open for legends like Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift, Joy positions himself within a tradition of musicians who view collaboration and homage as essential parts of their craft. As he explained in a recent 7NEWS feature:

“When you open for someone like Ed, you’re not just playing music—you’re part of their story. You’re helping shape the night for thousands of people. That responsibility means everything.”

This approach also benefits his own audience. Fans attending Ed Sheeran’s shows get to experience Vance Joy live in front of tens of thousands of people—something they might not otherwise see, given his preference for smaller, intimate venues.

Moreover, Joy’s presence adds diversity to massive tours. While Ed Sheeran’s setlist dominates the headlines, Joy brings a distinct sound rooted in Australian folk and indie rock. His inclusion ensures that local talent gets visibility alongside international icons—a win for the broader music ecosystem.

The Impact on Australian Music Culture

Joy’s career trajectory reflects broader shifts in how Australian artists are perceived globally. Once dismissed as “too niche” or “regional,” musicians like Vance Joy, Tame Impala, and Courtney Barnett have proven that homegrown talent can achieve international acclaim without compromising their identity.

His decision to return as the opener on Ed Sheeran’s tour isn’t just personal—it’s symbolic. It signals confidence in the value of supporting roles, both within the industry and in shaping concert culture. For young Australian musicians, seeing a peer like Joy thrive while staying true to his roots serves as powerful inspiration.

Additionally, Joy’s success underscores the enduring power of streaming platforms. While physical sales have declined, artists like him continue to build careers through digital reach. His eight-billion-stream milestone is no accident—it’s the result of consistent output, fan loyalty, and strategic collaborations.

What’s Next for Vance Joy?

With In Our Own Sweet Time still gaining traction and his Australian tour dates confirmed, Joy shows no signs of slowing down. Rumours swirl about potential collaborations with other Aussie icons, and his social media hints at new material on the horizon.

Fans can expect more stripped-back performances, heartfelt ballads, and perhaps even a surprise acoustic set during his upcoming shows. Whether he’s opening for Ed Sheeran or headlining his own tour, Joy remains committed to one thing: creating music that matters.

As he told Triple J last year:

“I don’t want to be the biggest name in the room. I want to be the one who makes people feel seen.”

In an era dominated by algorithm-driven hits and viral moments, Vance Joy’s quiet persistence stands out. He may not always be in the spotlight, but his influence echoes through every chord, every verse, and every standing ovation.

For Australian music lovers, this summer’s tour is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of authenticity, community, and the enduring power of a well-told song.

Tour Dates (Vance Joy as Special Guest on Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour):
📍 Sydney – Qudos Bank Arena – 15–16 February 2025
📍 Melbourne – Rod Laver Arena – 19–20 February 2025
📍 Brisbane – Suncorp Stadium – 23–24 February 2025

Tickets available via Ticketek.