Ashley Capps named one of SPIN's 2026 most influential people in music

The co-founder of Bonnaroo and founder of Big Ears Music Festival is recognized for his contributions to the industry.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:47am

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Ashley Capps, the co-founder of the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival and the founder of the Big Ears Music Festival in Knoxville, Tennessee, has been named one of SPIN magazine's most influential people in the music industry for 2026.

Why it matters

Capps has been a pioneering figure in the live music industry, helping to establish two of the most acclaimed and influential music festivals in the country. His recognition by SPIN highlights his lasting impact and influence on the music landscape.

The details

Capps co-founded Bonnaroo in 2002, which has grown to become one of the largest and most prestigious music festivals in the United States. He later founded the Big Ears Music Festival in Knoxville in 2009, which has become known for its eclectic programming and focus on experimental and avant-garde music.

  • Capps co-founded Bonnaroo in 2002.
  • Capps founded the Big Ears Music Festival in Knoxville in 2009.
  • Capps was named one of SPIN's most influential people in music for 2026.

The players

Ashley Capps

The co-founder of the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival and the founder of the Big Ears Music Festival in Knoxville, Tennessee.

SPIN

A prominent music magazine that has named Ashley Capps one of the most influential people in the music industry for 2026.

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What they’re saying

“It's always a special honor to be recognized by your peers in the industry,”

— Ashley Capps (wn.com)

The takeaway

Ashley Capps' recognition by SPIN as one of the most influential figures in music underscores his lasting impact on the live music industry through his work in founding and growing two of the country's most acclaimed music festivals.