Looking for the latest lineup, date, ticket information or latest news about your favourite festivals, look no further. Summer Festival Guide’s Festival News section covers all your needs!
Sziget Festival, the Island of Freedom, has a lot of to offer when it comes to music from all genres and an endless variety of music running non-stop. The 7-day festival hosts more than 500.000 Szitizens coming from more than 100 countries. This year, at the 25th Sziget, Kasabian, Major Lazer, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Flume, PJ Harvey, Alt-J, Interpol, Billy Talent, Two Door Cinema Club, Jamie Cullum, Rudimental and many more names will perform.
Sziget Festival is on the European festival radar for 25 years now, bringing music and art from all genres to the huge island. Programs never stop, one can always find music or any activity non-stop during the 7 days. There are more than 50 program venues where contemporary circus, art, dance and many more entertain the Szitizens, apart from the music acts. This time, besides the already announced names, we can find PJ Harvey, Alt-J, Rudimental live, George Ezra, White Lies and Dubioza Kolektiv on the Dan Panaitescu Main Stage. One of the favorite venue of the festival, the huge A38 tent, will host once again music for all like The Naked and Famous, Mando Diao, Anne-Marie, Andy C, Watsky, Nothing But Thieves, Léon, Bear’s Den, Chef’Special, De Staat, Valentino Khan, The Strypes, Rone and Weval among the already announced names. The electronic party central of the island, the giant tent of Arena, is happy to have Steve Aoki and Nervo this round.
All names announced so far in alphabetical order:
Alt-J Andy C Anne-Marie Bad Religion Bear's Den Billy Talent Cashmere Cat Charli XCX Chef'Special Clean Bandit Crystal Fighters Danny Brown De Staat Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike DJ Shadow Dubioza Kolektiv Flume Fritz Kalkbrenner George Ezra GTA GusGus Interpol Jagwar Ma Jamie Cullum Kasabian Kensington Leningrad León Mac Demarco Major Lazer Mando Diao Maurice West Metronomy Nervo Nothing but Thieves OH Wonder Oliver Heldens PJ Harvey Rone Rudimental live Steve Aoki Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano The Kills The Naked and Famous The Pretty Reckless The Strypes Tom Odell Two Door Cinema Club Vince Staples W&W Watsky Weval White Lies
Reading and Leeds have confirmed Eminem as the final headliner for this year’s festivals, taking place on 25 – 27 August 2017 at Richfield Avenue, Reading and Bramham Park, Leeds. Tickets are available here.
Consistently seen as one of the greatest rappers of all time, Eminem is not only a titan in hip-hop but in modern culture itself. One of the biggest selling artists of the 21st century, his razor-sharp wit and impeccable larger than life anthems continue to defy boundaries, with the likes of ‘Lose Yourself’, ‘My Name Is’, ’Not Afraid' and ‘The Monster’ all storming charts and record collections around the world. His return to Reading and Leeds marks an extremely rare opportunity to witness an icon in the flesh, with a set that’ll add another legendary chapter to the story of Eminem.
Melvin Benn commented: “Eminem returning to Reading and Leeds is beyond exciting. His 2013 headline performance was incredible and I can’t wait to have him back. In addition to our third and final headliner (joining Kasabian and Muse) we’ve announced over 70 additional acts to this year’s line up – it’s looking stronger than ever.”
‘Bad and Boujee’ hip-hop superstars Migos will return to the UK this summer, with a huge appearance lined up at Reading & Leeds. One of the most talked-about groups of the year; the trio have become global symbols of a new wave of modern rap following the release of their latest album C U L T U R E. Expect a swagger-filled performance as Migos make their way to Reading & Leeds.
South London rapper Giggs will continue his march to the top with an unparalleled set at this year’s festivals, bringing the gritty sounds of latest album Landlord to the fields, in a crowning moment for one of the genre’s most defiant voices.
One of the most hotly anticipated returns of the year, HAIM are set to land at Reading and Leeds this summer with a sun-soaked guitar-pop filled performance. Delving into classics from their 2013 debut Days Are Gone and sure-to-be hits from their upcoming new record, it’ll be unforgettable set as rock’s beloved sensations take to the Reading and Leeds stage.
British arena-rock kings You Me At Six will continue their rich history at Reading and Leeds, packing in anthems from their career along with the heavy kicks of latest album Night People. A band born for the biggest stages, Reading and Leeds is set to bear witness to a landmark step from a band that stand head and shoulders above the rest.
A standout success story of 2016, Blossoms have established themselves as national treasures with the release of their self-titled debut, storming to number 1 in the charts and leading to sold-out venues and huge stages wherever they go. Stockport’s finest are set to bring their pop-laden anthems to Reading and Leeds this summer in a performance that marks the next generation of arena-sized icons.
Stand-out alternative pop performances will reign supreme at Reading and Leeds this summer, with Halsey set to bring her powerful electro-tinged hits to the festivals, marking a rise that has seen her become a vital voice for an entire generation. Pop will be in abundance as the voices behind many of the biggest club anthems in the past year, Becky Hill and Charli XCX,head to Reading and Leeds,delivering in-your-face performances that blend cutting-edge electro beats with singalong favourites.
One of the most indisputable voices in British rock, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes will continue their incredible rise with another festival-stealing slot at Reading and Leeds this summer. After turning the Main Stage into a crowd-surfing punk masterclass at last year’s festivals, Frank Carter arrives loaded with the runaway success of latest album Modern Ruin, packing even more stadium-sized moments into the Bank Holiday weekend.
Lead by the unmistakable voice of Taylor Momsen, The Pretty Reckless will return to the festivals this year, armed with heavy blues-laden anthems of latest album Who You Selling For. Joining them in triggering mass singalongs at Reading and Leeds this summer are Blush emo-soarers Moose Blood, melodic-rock five-piece Mallory Knox, and punk smashers Marmozets who areset to unveil their invigorating new era after the riotous success of debut album The Weird and Wonderful Marmozets.
The always-seismic presence of explosive Canadians Billy Talent will leave their mark on this year’s festivals, bringing an acclaimed live show that has seen them remain at the top of their game for nearly 25 years. Blistering punk risers Counterfeit will perform at Reading and Leeds this summer, fresh from the release of their hotly anticipated debut album Together We Are Stronger,which sees frontman Jamie Campbell Bower in full voice. They’ll be joined by London trio Puppy,who are set for a true standout moment at this year’s festivals.
Joining them at Reading and Leeds 2017, and set to define an entire summer with anthems are Mancunian art-rockers Everything Everything who willdeliver a captivating set of electronic ground-shakers from across their stunning career. Reading hometown heroes Sundara Karma will be bringing indie tales of youthful abandon to the festivals this summer, with Oh Wonder geared to stun the Reading and Leeds crowds with tracks from their mesmerising self-titled debut album. Sheffield’s finest indie upstarts The Sherlocks will continue their journey from packed stage to packed stage with a huge set at Reading and Leeds this summer. Watford squad The Hunna will heat things up on their return to the festivals, and riotous Cabbage will deliver another onslaught that confirms why they’re seen as one of the most exciting new bands in the country. Mesmeric indie-pop groovers Fickle Friends will return to the festivals with their sun-laden anthems, with breakthrough festival moments to come when genre-morphers Inheaven, German ‘Stolen Dance’ songwriters Milky Chance,Ed Nash of Bombay Bicycle Club’s new project Toothless,and stripped-bare electro wizard Tom Misch all take to the Reading and Leeds stage across the weekend.
The explosion of grime and hip-hop will continue to flow through Reading and Leeds, as the festivals once again play host to legendary favourites and the ground breaking voices of the future. Brooklyn’s Flatbush Zombies channel the best of the 90’s East Coast rap era and are set to take on the festival this summer, with hits from last year’s debut album A Laced Odyssey. ‘Pow’ don Lethal Bizzle is set to send festival-goers into a rapturous spin with an explosive set of London grime, while the chilled vibes of Rejjie Snow and BBC Sound Of winner Ray BLK will be dousing the crowds with electric and soulful R&B.
From the down-to-earth freestyle sounds of Dave to the home grown swagger of MIST, the vibrant voices and future favourites in grime, rap and hip-hop can all be found at Reading and Leeds this summer. Avelino, Cadet, MoStack,
J Hus, Angel, Mic Righteous, Geovarn, The Manor, Young T & Bugsey and The Heatwave will all make theirunforgettable appearances at the festivals over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Punchy and gritty in everything they do, Black Lips are set to deliver their distinct brand of punk for a stage show that has to be seen to be believed whilst folk-rock duo Bear’s Den promise panoramic-sized grooves from last year’s Red, Earth & Pouring Rain along with classic favourites from their wistful debut Islands.Ferocious live shows will also come from Tom Grennan, Shame, Phantogram, The Amazons, Louis Berry, Grouplove, King Nun, IDLES, Yonaka, Eden, Prose and Picture This, as they all leave their own stamp on the weekend.
The most talked-about names in current electronic dance music will be heading to Reading and Leeds this summer. International sensation Marshmello,who’s huge remixes of Jack Ü and Zedd, along with sun-kissed anthem ‘Summer’ will make for an electrifying performance. Unmissable beats and sets are also guaranteed from drum ‘n’ bass titan High Contrast,masked heavyweight Jaguar Skills,London jungle king Shy FX with Stamina MC and Katy B who’ll be delivering a storming DJ set. Dillon Francis, Sam Divine, Majestic, Claptone, CamelPhat, TOKiMONSTA, James Organ, Chris Lorenzo, Mullally, Klose One and Star.One will all bring big room DJ sets, alongside a very special performance from acclaimed Dutch trio Noisia and their Outer Edges concept show also confirmed, the latest and greatest are set to take Reading and Leeds as their own this summer.
These names join a stellar bill already confirmed for Reading and Leeds 2017, joining previously announced headliners Muse and Kasabian, with Major Lazer, Bastille, Two Door Cinema Club, Flume, Fatboy Slim, Wiley, At The Drive In, Architects, Korn, While She Sleeps, Tory Lanez, Glass Animals, Circa Waves, Against The Current, Danny Brown and many more set for a weekend that brings together the most exciting sounds and artists from across the musical spectrum, capturing a year in music like no other.
Slam Dunk Festival line up is starting to fill up with even more acts annouced…..Now where do we start?!!
Firstly We Are The Ocean who haved been playing the festival more times than anyone else, will say their goodbyes as they will be making these SDF dates their final ever shows.
Representing the Best of British are the Kaiser Chiefs, Texas, The Shires, Example + DJ Wire, Jonas Blue, Nothing But Thieves, The Sherlocks, Ward Thomas, The Undertones, The Alarm and Elle Exxe. They join David Guetta, Run DMC, Arcade Fire and Rod Stewart who top the bill over the weekend as well as George Ezra, Bastille, Jack Savoretti and Rag’n’Bone Man performing across the weekend.
Fronted by the charismatic Ricky Wilson, the Kaiser Chiefs’ are best known for anthems such as ‘Oh My God’, ‘I Predict A Riot’, ‘Everyday I Love You Less And Less’, ‘Ruby’ and ‘Never Miss A Beat’. The band have recently released their sixth studio album ‘Stay Together’ which charted in the top five in the UK Official Albums Chart.
Texas will perform at the festival for the first time following their 25th anniversary last year, which included the release of ‘Texas 25’ reaching the top five of the UK charts. Since their formation in 1986 the Glaswegian band have scored thirteen UK top ten singles, three UK number one albums and seven UK top ten albums with sales of over 35 million records with hits such as ‘Say What You Want’ and ‘Black Eyed Boy’.
Country duo The Shires is comprised of singer-songwriters Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes. The band released their debut album ‘Brave’ in 2016, becoming the first UK country act to chart in the Top 10 of the Official UK Albums Chart. Their second album ‘My Universe’ released October of last year, became the fastest-selling UK country album in history selling 14,500 copies in the first week.
Example + DJ Wire, real name Elliot Gleave, is renowned for his monstrous DJ sets. With eight UK Top 10’s, two UK Number One’s ‘Changed The Way You Kissed Me’ and ‘Stay Awake’, Example’s huge electronic bangers have earned him millions of fans from across the globe. Example is currently working on his sixth studio album which will see him return to his unique EDM-rap cross over style.
London based electronic dance producer Jonas Blue released his first single ‘Fast Car’ in 2015, a reworking of Tracy Chapman’s 1988 hit. Adding tropical house beats to the bittersweet original, the single topped the charts in 17 different countries. In 2016 Blue released his follow up hit to his global smash, ‘Perfect Strangers’ featuring JP Cooper, the single charted at Number Two in the Official UK Singles Chart.
British Rock band The Sherlocks consist of two sets of brothers, Kieran and Brandon Crook and Andy and Josh Davidson. They were the first unsigned band since Arctic Monkeys to sell out their local venue the Sheffield Leadmill. The band have received great support from the likes of Steve Lamacq, Annie Mac & Huw Stephens and kick off their headline UK and Ireland tour next month.
Modern country duo Ward Thomas is comprised of 22 year old twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas. The duo produce modern country music with a British twist and released their second album ‘Cartwheels’ which reached Number One in the Official UK Albums Chart, making them the first British country act to do so.
Formed in Northern Ireland in 1975, The Undertones became renowned for combining lyrical invention and musical flair with intelligent simplicity. Their anthemic ‘Teenage Kicks’, much loved by John Peel, was one of the most influential songs of the post-punk era. Reformed in 1999, festival goers will play their classics hits alongside new material.
Welsh alternative rock band The Alarm opened for acts such as U2 and Bob Dylan, before becoming a popular alternative rock band of the 1980s. The band have 17 Top 50 UK Singles, a host of successful albums and over five million sales worldwide. The band have recently announced dates for their UK tour in May.
Rising Scottish popstar Elle Exxe has been championed by BBC Introducing and Kiss FM, flown high in Music Week Charts and Amazing Radio charts. At the start of 2016 her single ‘Lost in L.A’ was synced to a worldwide advert for Google Music. Elle has recently played sold out shows across London and her native Scotland.
The Isle of Wight Festival takes place from 8th – 11th June at Seaclose Park, Newport. Due to popular demand, 2017 sees the return of Day Tickets in addition to Weekend Tickets.
For a VIP festival experience, exclusive glamping options are also on sale. Eve’s Tipis offer a luxury stay with a cocktail bar and hot breakfast options to kickstart your day. The much loved colourful Podpads will also be returning which include a power point to keep your phone charged throughout the weekend. Love Your Tent, Tangerine Fields and Pink Moon Camping also offer unique camping experiences for a weekend in style.
2017 will be the 16th Isle of Wight Festival since it was successfully relaunched in 2002 to become one of the most popular weekends of the summer, with a proud heritage of show-stopping headliners such as Foo Fighters, The Rolling Stones, The Killers, Paul McCartney, Coldplay, Blur and Fleetwood Mac.
But that’s not all, The Common Stage will see sublime dancefloor duo Groove Armada hitting the decks to provide their own inimitable brand of booty shaking brilliance with appearances from Wild Beasts, Foals (DJ set), The Selecter + The Beat, Saint Etienne, Amy MacDonald, House Gospel Choir and Lucy Leave On Saturday in Oxford, while South Park’s Sunday mainstage action will see BRITs Critics’ Choice winner 2017 Rag’n’Bone Man’s staggering vocals and gospel-powered grooves, plus music from Becky Hill, The Cuban Brothers, Elvana: Elvis Fronted Nirvana and Coldredlight.
And in Southampton, The Common Stage will see BRITs Critics’ Choice winner 2013 Tom Odell’s charismatic swagger and rave legends Faithless on the ones & twos, plus there will be appearances from Loyle Carner, Becky Hill, Stefflon Don, Seán McGowan, Kassassin Street, Elvana: Elvis Fronted Nirvana and Black Kat Boppers on Saturday. And Groove Armada, Wild Beasts, British Sea Power, Amy MacDonald, Nadia Rose, Novelist, House Gospel Choir, Signals and The Novatones will appear on Sunday.
Filling your dancing boots throughout the weekend, the Uncontained Stage will be jumping with My Nu Leng & M8s and very special guest Goldie, Novelist, Redlight, GotSome and Klose One, all stepping up to the plates to drop bombs on Saturday in Oxford and Sunday in Southampton, while hands in the air behaviour will come courtesy of Moxie presents On Loop featuring sets from Joy Orbison, Midland, Kornél Kovács, Felix Dickinson and Or:la on Saturday in Southampton and Sunday in Oxford.
Discovering new music is what gets the man like da Bank out of bed in the morning, it’s the very the lifeblood of the Bestival team! So, we’ve teamed up with fellow new music evangelist and Oxford institution Nightshift once again to showcase the best new local bands alongside some of the most exciting acts around on the Uncommon Stage, including ShaoDow, Zaia, The Balkan Wanderers, Jess Hall & Barney Morse Brown, Kanadia, Vienna Ditto, Death of Hi-Fi, Leader, Young Women's Music Project, Rhymeskeemz, The Shapes, Low Island, Desert Storm, The Epstein, Little Red, The Pink Diamond Revue, Catgod and Slate Hearts.
And continuing our long and illustrious partnership with The Joiners in Southampton we are delighted to present Beans on Toast, Black Honey, Natives, Happy Accidents, Cassava, Fever, XOCKHA, Feeble Grandpa, Scarecrow Boat, Nakamarra, Gun Shy and Deltorers.
Oxford will see universal dance adventures at The Pig’s Big Record Club Stage, hosted by the Shellac Collective 78s DJs and ensuring the party always swings, there will be a host of local DJs from Southampton and Oxford across the weekend.
With amazing music keeping your feet moving throughout the bank holiday weekend, we’ll be bringing a little taste of our legendary madness and mayhem ramping up the Bestival antics to transform Common People into an amazing festival wonderland, with plenty of our off-the-wall shenanigans including boss boogying at the Disco Shed in Oxford, and the World’s Biggest Bouncy Castle in Southampton, plus both shows will have the old-time pleasures of Vintage Funfair Rides, surprising Pop-Up Performances, brass-powered Horns of Plenty in Oxford, and Saints Brass in Southamptonwith the savoury delights of Scrumptious Street Food, decadent drinkies from Cocktail Bars, a fantastic Kids Area withthe gymnastic pageantry of Circus,Face Painting, Crazy Inflatables, and much more!
2017 will see the return of Live Nation's Wireless Festival back at Finsbury Park in London.
Taking place between the 7th – 9th July, the lineup for this years festival will blow you away.
Headlining this year are global superstars Chance the Rapper, Skepta & The Weeknd
Joining them are some other mighty heavyweights including Bryson Tiller (UK Festival Exclusive), NAS (UK Festival Exclusive), G-Eazy, Rae Sremmurd, Tory Lanez, Young Thug, Sean Paul
Accomodation
For a good choice of hotels with discount prices, visit our preferred hotel suppliers here:
Zara Larrson, Post Malone, Flatbush Zombies, Lil Dicky, Big Narstie, Noname, Nef the Pharoah
Saturday 8th July
Skepta
Rae Sremmurd
Young Thug, Sean Paul, Lil Yachty, Wiley, Section Boyz, Yungen, Dave, Mostack, Jez Dior, The Age of L.U.N.A, Big Tobz, Young T & Bugsey
Sunday 9th July
The Weeknd
Nas
Tory Lanez
Ty Dolla $ign, Wizkid, Lil Uzi Vert, Tyga, Desiigner, Hilltop Hoods, Mike Skinner & Murkage present Tonga, Stefflon Don, Yuna, Cadet, Aj X Deno, Abra Cadabra, Topaz Jones,
Main stage hosted by DJ Charlsey
Headlining Friday is Chance The Rapper, who is rapidly establishing himself as the hottest hip-hop artist of his generation. Since the release of his first official mixtape 10 Day in 2012, he’s won three Grammy Awards, collaborated with Kanye West on the critically acclaimed Life of Pablo, and clocked over fifty-seven million streams of his debut album Coloring Book. Having recently announced his 40 date US tour, including two sold out shows at the Hollywood Bowl, this is one act not to miss at Wireless 2017.
Following a momentous performance with Boy Better Know last year, London’s very own grime luminary Skepta will return to Finsbury Park as Saturday’s headliner. Last year saw his ground-breaking album Konnichiwa receive a well-deserved Mercury Prize among countless other awards and take his music worldwide. This summer, Wireless is delighted to host Skepta performing to his home crowd.
Known for some of the biggest hits of the past year, two-time Grammy Award Winner The Weeknd will be closing Wireless Festival on Sunday. The performer, producer and songwriter made history in November 2016 by breaking Spotify records with single ‘Starboy’, which still hold the record for most streams in 24 hours by a single artist.
Bryson Tiller will be bringing crowd pleasing singles ‘Don’t’ and ‘Exchange’ to Finsbury Park for a UK Festival Exclusive at Wireless 2017, alongside the “James Dean of rap” G-Eazy. Swedish songstress Zara Larsson and the young and talented Post Malone are also set to perform on the Main Stage.
Already a big fan of performing at Wireless Festival, Base Defense League Big Narstie will be back with a number of bassline dropping hits. Gritty and atmospheric Flatbush Zombies, comedic rapper Lil Dicky, poetic Chicago rapper Noname and Californian rapper Nef The Pharaoh have also been added to the line up.
Dynamic hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd, stereotype defying rapper Young Thug and the flame-haired Lil Yachty all join the line up for UK Festival Exclusives performances. Also performing are grime legend and godfather Wiley, ‘Temperature’ dancehall superstarSean Paul, UK rap crew Section Boyz, and Capital Xtra Show host DJ Charlsey who will open the festival on the Saturday and Sunday.
Underground British sensation Yungen, 18-year old rapper Dave and Mr Gangster With BanterMoStack, are set to carry out unmissable sets. Further acts to perform on the Saturday are hip-hop meets grunge rap artist Jez Dior, Walthamstow’s Big Tobz,the much talked about TheAge of L.U.N.A and The Royal Foundation winners, now major label signed Young T & Bugsey.
Regarded as one of the best MC’s of all time and with a career spanning over 20 years which includes hits ‘One Mic’, ‘N.Y. State of Mind’ and ‘If I Ruled the World’, Nas will be making a UK Festival Exclusive appearance at Wireless on the Sunday. Also added is R&B and rap fused Tory Lanez; the Toronto born artist known for hit single ‘LUV’, renowned producer Ty Dolla $ign, and the one of a kind Tyga who will be bringing with him five studio albums that include tracks ‘Rack City’ and ‘Faded’. Nigerian singer songwriterWizKid,catchy buzz rapper Lil Uzi Vert and ‘Panda’ celebrated Desiigner will also perform.
Mike Skinner and Murkage present Tonga will be at Finsbury Park this July, alongside a long awaited performance from one of the biggest hip-hop successes to come out of Australia, Hilltop Hoods. London’s grime queen and an artist to watch out for this yearStefflon Don, teenage marvels AJ X DENO, and popstar Yuna will be joined by ‘Stereotype Freestyle’ rapper Cadet, grime purist Abra Cadabra,and storyteller Topaz Jones for the ultimate music experience this summer.
By way of a late Valentines Day gift, BLOODSTOCK is thrilled to announce 3 more bands for 2017’s event!
ARCH ENEMY will be joining us as Sunday’s special guests. Get a taste of their Swedish melodeath with the live video for ‘War Eternal’, shot at Wacken 2016 and check out what’s in store this August – https://youtu.be/p5etfIwlRbg. The band, now fronted by Alissa White-Gluz, are set to release a new live DVD/Blu-Ray of their full Wacken set titled ‘As The Stages Burn!’ on 31st March via Century Media. ARCH ENEMY guitarist Michael Amott tells us "We're very much looking forward to being a part of this year's edition of BLOODSTOCK, which actually takes place very close to where my father was born. We'll be bringing our 'pure fucking metal' attack home… Hail to England!" Stay clued up on all things ARCH ENEMY at www.facebook.com/archenemyofficial/.
Salt Lake City deathcore mob CHELSEA GRIN also land an early main stage slot on Friday. The band released their fourth studio album, ‘Self Inflicted’ via new label home Rise Records last summer and unveiled a video for ‘Broken Bonds’ – https://youtu.be/awa50gXnOdw. Frontman Alex Koehler tells us “We are looking forward to heading back overseas this summer to be part of Bloodstock 2017. When we were offered the show and we saw the lineup we were extremely excited. We’ve seen tons of videos from BLOODSTOCK in the past and cannot wait to be there.” Get all the latest on CHELSEA GRIN over at www.facebook.com/ChelseaGrinMetal.
Lastly, prog metallers ONI join the ranks on the Sophie stage on Saturday. Signed to Metal Blade, these Canadians recently unveiled a creepy video for ‘The Only Cure’ from debut album ‘Ironshore’, featuring guest vocals from Lamb of God’s Randy Blythe. Check it out at: https://youtu.be/ERFBmOtElKU. Frontman Jake Oni says “In the past year, we’ve had the pleasure of playing the UK a few times, but being a part Bloodstock 2017 is a huge honour. We are not only excited to show this festival what we’ve got, but also to see some of the masters that are playing!!! You don't want to miss this!” ONIwarm up for their BLOODSTOCK debut by traversing Europe next month with Children of Bodom.
Boomtown have just announced their first wave of acts for Chapter 9, showcasing the festival’s signature mix of expansive genres, with unique acts spearheading a vast roster of talent. Joining previously announced 2 Tone ska legends The Specials are; hip hop pioneers Cypress Hill, world infused London M.I.A., multi award winning Arrested Development, reggae superstar Toots and the Maytals, 90s legends Chaka Demus & Pliers, sounds from cult classic film with TheOriginal Blues Brothers Band, folk-punk star Frank Turner, Bob Marley’s eldest son and founding member of the ‘Melody Makers’Ziggy Marley andfolk-rock act Newton Faulkner.
The 60,000 capacity Hampshire festival is the only fully immersive music and theatrical festival in the UK and have followed up their storyline trailer for 2017 by announcing over 160 artists spanning a huge variety of genres, including reggae, folk, jazz, world, dub, dancehall, ska, house, techno, garage and a whole lot more…
The world's biggest reggae stage, the Lion’s Den will again host some of the largest names in reggae, dancehall and hip hop.Long coveted ska legends The Specials lead the line up, alongside multi-platinumprogenitors Cypress Hill, the unique sounds of M.I.A. blending world music with hip hop for an electrically conscious set. Returning to Boomtown for the first time since 2010 Toots & The Maytals will be bringing Jamaican spirit to the Lion’s Den stage and debut appearance by Ziggy Marley sees him following in the footsteps of many of his family members by making the Lion’s Den his home… Keeping things in the family with the Bonner Brothers, in the world of reggae music few families rival these brothers’ success featuring;Richie Spice, Spanner Banner, Snatcha Lion, Sheperd Bonner & Pliers, the latter of which will be bringing along his legendary sparring partner Chaka Demus! From stalwart legends to the new wave of roots reggae coming out of Jamaica, often referred to as 'the reggae revival' The Lion’s Den will be welcoming Raging Fyah, Jah9, Iba Mahr, Runkus alongside the scene's leading figure, Protoje.
"We've known about playing Boomtown for some time & it's been really difficult to keep it secret. Everybody has been saying 'it would be great if you played Boomtown' & all we could say is 'yeah'. Well, we are playing Boomtown …..YEAH!!!" The Specials
Moving on to the Town Centre stage, which pulls in genre leaders from across all the main stages into one melting-pot; Hampshire superstar, Frank Turner, will be back on home soil after his North American tour to rouse the audience with his anthemic folk-punk. Arrested Development’s alternative hip hop will again be welcomed back; there will be sunny Californian ska punk from Sublime with Rome, chest thumping gospel and uplifting sing along tunes from The Original Blues Brothers Band. Electronic dancehall infused metal band Skindred are set to whip the crowd into a frenzy, while Reel Big Fish will be throwing back some iconic ska-punk,along with the carefree, jam-centric good times from Slightly Stoopid, And lastly, but not least, one of the first ever bands to grace Boomtown’s Town Centre stage back in 2009, the much loved and admired The Wurzels will undoubtedly be a crowd pleaser among the Boomtown faithful.
One of the festival’s most visually stunning immersive street sets, The Wild West transports attendees back into a Western filled with saloons and cowboys, hosting some of the most internationally renowned folk and world at The Old Mines stage. Alabama 3 fuse country with house and spoken word,while Newton Faulkner’s percussive songwriting takesfolk rock to a different level.Irish folk groupKílaleave spines tingling with seamless instrumentation and Congolese group Mbongwana Star bring Afro-house to the stagemixing percussion with bass.
Back for it’s second year, The Windmill, set in tranquil and exploratory Whistlers Green, harks back to the very first UK music festivals with a largely jazz line up consisting of some of the country's most respected new forward thinking jazz trailblazers such as: Mercury nominees GoGo Penguin, Portico Quartet, Soweto Kinch, and The Comet Is Coming; Mobo Winners Sons Of Kemet and the simply not to be missed all-female septet Nérija. And topping this soulful and thought provoking stage will be the dub poetry of Benjamin Zephaniah & the Revolutionary Minds.
The vibrant carnival district of Barrio Loco invites attendees to lose their inhibitions in a playground of festivity. Scene shapers Ben UFO & Mr Scruff & Joy Orbison will be playing an epic five and half hour collaborative set, in a one-off outing exclusive to Boomtown’s flagship house and techno venue Vamos. The celebration of dance culture doesn’t stop there and will also be welcoming founding father of Detroit techno Carl Craig, along with one of the UK’s greatest ever techno producers, who’s been crafting classic tracks for over two decades, Dave Clarke. As well as minimal house supplied by German duo Booka Shade performing live, and fellow German, Berlin based electro producer Boys Noize heading up the jam packed line-up which also includes the House Gospel Choir, Dusky, Monki, Solardo, and many more.
Over in Barrio Loco’s other main venue, Poco Loco, versatility and quality are the order of the day, with newcomer Loyle Carner’s ‘sensitive and eloquent’ hip hop with grime rapper A J Tracey providing a seamless flow over trap music. Other headliners include Chali 2na & Krafty Kuts, High Focus Records’; Ocean Wisdom and The Four Owls, plus more to be announced.
The awe inspiring Sector 6 stagewill again be captivating the crowds with its stunning architecture and pyrotechnic displays alongside a fresh new soundtrack including; genre hopping bass loving Shy FX, Radio 1 resident Toddla T spreading feelgood carnival vibes, and Shogun Audio will be bringing the underground sounds of Bristol bass scenefor a four hour takeover. More acts for Sector 6 still to be announced.
Newly upgraded multimedia hub of Bang Hai Tower, the festival’s biggest and most ambitious stage to date, will welcome dubstep originator, Rusko, self-formed and unequivocally adept garage supergroup TQD (Royal T, DJ Q & Flava D) going B2B with the formidable Bristolians My Nu Leng and Dread MC in a never before seen world exclusive and Exit Records will be hosting the cream of electronic music courtesy ofthe label takeover featuring D-Bridge, Skeptical, Alix Perez, Fracture and SP:MC. More acts to be announced.
This first headliners release covers just a few of the acts that can be found on eight of Boomtown’s 25 main stages. Full district announcements are still to come and will be released throughout February and March.
LINE UP SO FAR: (More to be released…)
Lion’s Den
Agent Sasco & Dub Akom Band / Big Youth & U-Roy/ The Bonner Brothers (Richie Spice, Spanner Banner, Snatcha Lion, Sheperd Bonner feat. Chaka Demus + Pliers) / Cypress Hill / Earl Gateshead with Dawn Penn & Soom T / Gentleman’s Dub Club feat. Taiwan MC, Parly B & Eva Lazarus / Iba Mahr & Harar Band / Jah9 / Lutan Fyah / M.I.A. / Mr Vegas / Protoje / Raging Fyah / Runkus & The Old Skool Bond / Solo Banton & Horseman with The Upper Cut Band / The Specials / Stand High Patrol & Pupajim / Suns Of Dub feat. Randy Valentine / Stick Figure / Toots & The Maytals / Ziggy Marley
Town Centre
Arrested Development /Eskorzo / Frank Turner / Hepcat / Hoffmaestro / The Original Blues Brothers Band / Reel Big Fish / Sam & The Womp / The Showhawk Duo / Ska’N’Ska / Skindred / Slightly Stoopid / Smokey Joe & The Kid feat. Mystro / Sublime With Rome / Sugarhill Gang with Grandmaster Melle Mel & Scorpio’s Furious 5 / Wax Tailor / The Wurzels
Old Mines
Alabama 3 / Beans On Toast / The Breath / Bukahara / Chris Wood / Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band / The Furrow Collective / Heymoonshaker / Kumbia Queers / Lakuta / Mad Dog Mcrea / Mbongwana Star / Newton Faulkner / Kila / Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band / The Showhawk Duo / 47 Soul
The Windmill
Benjamin Zephaniah & the Revolutionary Minds / Brinsley (Aswad)Forde MBE / The Comet Is Coming / Dub FX / GoGo Penguin / Jesse Royal / Nerija / Nomade Orquestra / Portico Quartet / Mike Love / SK Shlomo / Sons Of Kemet / Soweto Kinch / United Vibrations / Wrongtom meets The Ragga Twins
Old Town
Crash Nomada / Los Colorados / UFOSlavians
Rusty Spurs
Jim Jones & The Righteous Mind
Hidden Woods
Nattali Rize / Nice Up! Takeover / Reggae Roast ft Brother Culture / Randy Valentine
Psychedelic Forest
Astrix / Ace Ventura / Berg / GAUDI / Juno Reactor / Ott & The All-Seeing I
Devil Kicks Dancehall
The Dreadnoughts / King Prawn / Legendary Shack Shakers / Planet Smashers
Chinatown Courtyard
The Dualers
Poco Loco
AJ Tracey / Chali 2na & Krafty Kuts / Dea Players Vs Problem Child / Donae'O / Elf Kid / Loyle Carner / MC Taiwan / Ocean Wisdom / The Four Owls
Vamos
Ben UFO & Mr Scruff & Joy Orbison / Boddika / Booka Shade / Boys Noize / Carl Craig / Dave Clarke / Dusky / House Gospel Choir / Monki / Solardo
Bang Hai Tower
Black Sun Empire / Break / Exit Records Takeover / Kill Box / My Nu Leng B2B TQD / Optiv & BTK / Phace / Redlight / Rusko / S.P.Y / The Prototypes
Sector 6
Butterz takeover (Elijah & Skilliam, Swindle & DJ Champion & MC Serious) / DJ Luck & MC Neat / Heartless Crew / Holy Goof / Mefjus B2B Emperor / Shogun Audio Takeover / Shy FX / The Heatwave / Toddla T
Robotika
Aphrodite / Caspa / Deekline B2B Ed Solo / Dub Phizix & Strategy / Freestylers / Gutterfunk Takeover (Dj Die, Addison Groove, Dismantle),Loefah /Mampi Swift /Randall /Ray Keith / Schlachthofbronx / Star.One / Storm /Utah Saints
Adding to the bank holiday festivities is a further twenty world-renowned acts, each regarded as an innovator within their specific genre. Hence continuing our wide ranging remit for 2017 which has resulted in phenomenal ticket sales to date. So drumroll please as South West Four proudly presents the next artists to join London’s biggest dance music festival…
MORE SATURDAY ACTS ANNOUNCED!
WILKINSON (LIVE)
After blasting to fame in 2012 with sensational track ‘Afterglow’, this home grown talent has crafted releases now considered amongst the best of contemporary dance music. His exhilarating LIVE shows have seen Wilkinson wow festivals from UK to the USA. Plus with hype for new album ‘Hypnotic’ beginning to swell, a UK Tour about to commence and selling out Camden’s prestigious venue ‘The Roundhouse’ weeks in advance, we can’t wait for Wilkinson to kill it at SW4!
PLUS DJ SETS FROM (A-Z) CAMELPHAT, CLAPTONE, GOLDIE VS MY NU LENG, HYPE B2B HAZARD, JULIO BASHMORE, KC LIGHTS, KUNGS, SASASAS
CAMELPHAT An unprecedented twelve months has seen Camelphat capture the hearts of revellers around the world with charismatic productions and invigorating showcases. As proved by new release ‘The System’ achieving Top 10 status in Beatport’s ‘Deep House’ chart and EP ‘Deets’ commended by industry champions such as Pete Tong. Expect these guys to fire things up on the Common.
CLAPTONE Returning for a third time, this mysterious enigma prepares for another aural assault at SW4. That jazzy re-work of ‘Liquid Spirit’ was labeled last year’s feel good anthem, with widespread acclaim catapulting Claptione into the elite of electronic music. Since then a capacity show at London’s illustrious Electric Brixton, regular performances at Ministry of Sound plus Amnesia Ibiza amongst others and the burgeoning popularity of Claptone’s raucous parties under ‘The Masquerade’ banner – deem this a flagship inclusion for 2017 .
GOLDIE VS MY NU LENG With a career spanning over two decades Goldie is regarded a true legend. His OBE recognition is instrumental in inspiring not only aspiring artists but industry peers too! Fitting then this household name makes a SW4 debut on Saturday, for one of the Capital’s most anticipated festival appearances this summer. But don’t forget the best things come in pairs!
So to form an ear splitting ensemble, Goldie is joined by My Nu Leng – current trailblazers in bass music for a B2B of epic proportions! The Bristol based duo may be relative newcomers but are cherished within the scene for production skills second-to-none and an incomparable sound. Earning regular airtime on BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, this exposure has led to global recognition in record time.
HYPE B2B HAZARD Known for CDJ wizardry and a jaw dropping dexterity behind the decks, DJ Hype is amongst the most respected ever ambassadors for D&B. His trend setting label ‘Playaz’ has gone from strength to strength with a standout residency at Fabric, crowned by a jump-up style and technical ability which mystifies the dance floor.
Joining our main man will be the protégé himself! In just a few years, Hazard has knocked out anthems aplenty and is now recognized as an outstanding producer. A force to be reckoned with, this exclusive London back to back a proud addition to this year’s roster.
JULIO BASHMORE Julio’s distinctive sound dictates he always stands tall from the crowd, taking influence from icons such as Daft Punk and Cassius. Managing to hone his sound down the years to produce some of the most accomplished house music tracks of recent times. Pushing a unique sound to earn endorsements from Annie Mac and Carl Cox, as well as headline shows throughout Europe on a regular basis. So onwards and upwards as Julio joins an array of the scene’s stalwarts to make his long awaited SW4 debut on Saturday 26th August.
KC LIGHTS In 2015, KC Lights illuminated the house music genre as ‘No No No’ became the definitive Ibiza anthem of that year. The smash hit soared to No.3 and No.10 respectively in the dance charts for Radio 1 and Shazam, leading to Annie Mac proclaiming ‘Yes Yes Yes’ for inclusion in her namesake compilation ‘AM Presents…’ A career defining moment then, which has continued to grow with frequent collaborations and performances alongside heavyweights MK, Rudimental, Danny Howard and Hannah Wants. We are super stoked for this Glaswegian producer to bring his melodic and fresh beats to South West Four!
KUNGS The last twelve months has been a whirlwind for the fledgling producer, as Kungs continues to forge a unique and distinct niche. His remix of ‘This Girl’ erupted into the charts, claiming top spots in Germany, France, Russia, Switzerland and receiving prestigious ‘Platinum’ status in both Britain and Australia. At just twenty years old, this young age belies a tour itinerary which has included playing alongside David Guetta, NERVO and Robin Schulz. Plus with the excitement which surrounded debut album ‘Layers’ still very much lingering, Kungs at SW4 will be class.
NETSKY Adored by fans worldwide, Netsky’s talents both in the studio and whilst performing knows no limits. From humble beginnings to selling out stadium sized shows in all four continents, Netsky has become a mainstay at South West Four. Recently announcing his own stage at ‘Tomorrowland’ and selling out a series of tours with both his live and DJ concepts, the man from Antwerp has never seen so many accolades! A favourite with the Clapham Common faithful we can’t wait to welcome him back.
SASASAS What do you get when combining six of the slickest MCs and DJs in Drum and Bass? Think a sonic boom of energy and explosion of intense sound, an unrivaled experience that’s not to be missed! The collective consisting of Harry Shotta, Stormin’, Shabba D, Skibadee, Macky Gee and DJ Phantasy have already performed a host of recent sell out shows and specifically chose SW4 as next on the hit list. An ever-growing fan base and unbelievable buzz meant we had no option but to duly accept.
SW4 LINE UP SO FAR
SATURDAY 26TH AUGUST
PENDULUM (LIVE) ERIC PRYDZ SIGMA LIVE WILKINSON LIVE DUKE DUMONT (A-Z) CAMELPHAT CLAPTONE HANNAH WANTS HYPE B2B HAZARD JULIO BASHMORE KC LIGHTS KUNGS MK MAYA JANE COLES VS HEIDI MISTAJAM PATRICK TOPPING SAM FELDT (LIVE) SASASAS SONNY FODERA VS LOW STEPPA
SUNDAY 27TH AUGUST
DEADMAU5 KNIFE PARTY MARCO CAROLA (A-Z) DUSKY LIVE GARETH EMERY MATADOR LIVE NICKY ROMERO PAN-POT THE MARTINEZ BROTHERS ZINC VS CHRIS LORENZO
It’s a brand-new era, so prepare for the truly immersive experience of Bestival 2017. Announcing four incredible headliners and a huge bill of amazing music, we are entering a new chapter of light and sound, exploring the wonders of Colour on our mission to increase the peace this 7th – 10th September at the Lulworth Estate, Dorset.
Rob da Bank says: “Well what an adventure this promises to be… we have a beautiful new home with a massive castle in the middle of it, acres of beautiful woodland and forest, a sea view and the dramatic Jurassic coastline. Going back to our roots with Josie da Bank’s hand-drawn artwork, reviving all our favourite stages from 14 years of Bestival history and going out with all our headliners for the first time ever together, we’re pretty excited at Bestival HQ. From pop to grime, hip-hop to techno, folk to classical and every style in between we are reclaiming our place as the funnest, most adventurous, musically savvy and downright magical festival on the map. Please come along for the ride. and remember Increase the Peace”
We are honoured to say that The xx will be the first ever Castle Stage headliners at Bestival! Never anything less than breath-taking, we can’t think of a more fitting band to get the main stage action underway in our new home.
Commenting on their headline performance, The xx said: “Bestival was one of the first festivals we played, back in 2010, and it had always been a dream for us…we even begged to play the previous year. In 2012 we returned to play the main stage and we’re so happy to say we’ll be headlining this year, at the new site in Dorset. The Isle of Wight will hold a special place in our hearts but we’re excited to bring our new show to their new home”.
Guaranteed to be momentous, we are extremely excited indeed to announce that hip-hop heroes A Tribe Called Quest will headline Saturday at Bestival 2017, performing what will be their last UK Show.
Bringing our debut mainland Bestival to a suitably triumphant close, we are completely over the moon to announce synth-pop geniuses Pet Shop Boys as our Sunday night headliners. Quite simply legends, we think they’re the perfect band to bring some mind-blowing colour to our first Lulworth Estate finale!
Commenting on their headline show, Pet Shop Boys said: “Amazingly it is over ten years since we last played Bestival but we remember it being one of the most enjoyable festivals ever. Looking forward to bringing our new show there this year – and seeing how the audience has decided to dress up!”
And completing 2017’s fantastic foursome of first-time headliners we are delighted to announce Wimbledon’s finest, Jamie T will be the man kicking it all off with an exclusive performance topping the Thursday night bill on our second stage, The Box.
We’ll also have mind-blowing live music from super suave Gallic funksters Justice, plus, Dizzee Rascal, DJ Shadow, Little Dragon, Danny Brown, Rag’n’Bone Man, Laura Mvula, Soul II Soul, MNEK, Circa Waves, Ray BLK, Lucy Rose, and Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon among many, many others.
And there will be DJ sets from Annie Mac, Andy C presents 25 Years of RAM, Kurupt FM, David Rodigan presents RAM JAM, DJ Yoda, Maceo Plex, Jackmaster, Kölsch, Dusky, Toddla T presents Carnival, Artwork presents Art’s House, Sink the Pink and loads more to boot. Check the line-up so far listing at the end of this press release for even more names playing across the weekend.
Redrawing our favourite party in the spirit of its original pioneering vision, Bestival’s creative essence will explode before your very eyes with a cavalcade of brilliant new stages, incredible destinations and stone cold classics, including our brand new main stage The Castle Stage, the eclectic wonders of The Box, the hands in the air nirvana of Temple, Bestival’s heart and soul, Bollywood, and the righteous vibrations of Reggae Roots.
Back by very popular demand HMS Bestival is the last word in off the hook partying, plus you can dance like there’s no tomorrow in new venues The Frozen Mole and Stacey’s, delve into the vintage madness of Caravanserai, and Club DaDa, and kick back in the enchanting Ambient Forest, and at our steam punk vision, Oberon’s Observatory.
Bestival 2017 is a whole new world to explore and to keep you on your toes we’ll also have the dazzling delights of The World's Biggest Confetti Canon, Castle Fireworks Finale, the Love-Bot, The World's Biggest Bouncy Castle, Bestival Inflatable Church, Confetti Wedding Disco, The Feast Collective, Slow Motion, Revolution Rides, Carnival Day Parade and Night Parades, the Sugar Skulls Cocktail Bus, Sunday Best Cardboard Record Shop, Lost in the Woods, Ancient Woodlands, Free Haircuts, Campsite Recycling Hubs, Kids’ Field and for all you vexillophiles out there, Flags by Angus Watt.
