Reading and Leeds Festivals today announce a total of 20+ artists confirmed to play the festival. In addition to this, the highly-anticipated Late Night Leeds line-up has been shared, alongside Thursday night’s performers. Promising unforgettable performances from the most influential and exciting names in indie, alternative, hip-hop and dance, the three-day festival takes place on 25-27 August 2023, returning to Reading’s famous Richfield Avenue and Leeds’ legendary Bramham Park. Tickets are on sale now, via www.readingfestival.com/tickets and www.leedsfestival.com/tickets.
Joining the likes of Sam Fender, The Killers, Billie Eilish, Foals, Lewis Capaldi and Imagine Dragons will be some of the most exciting names in global music. From the upbeat drum and bass of breakout TikTok star and viral ‘Messy In Heaven’ songwriter venbee to the hyped Dr. Dre endorsed rapper Cordae, there is an artist for everyone to enjoy at the 2023 instalment of the festival.
Also added to the line-up are viral pop sensation and ‘If We Ever Broke Up’ singer Mae Stephens, heartfelt R&B singer Foushee, energetic Georgia rapper Ken Carson, Nottingham-based rapper skaiwater, progressive afrobeat rapper Artan, candid Tottenham rapper Jordy, tenacious voice Dreya Mac, afro-pop singer Highlyy, R&B extraordinaire Mnelia, raw rap artist Lost Girl and Hertfordshire techno duo Tibasko.
UPSAHL will also be playing an exclusive set at Reading Festival, bringing her up-tempo pop hits to Richfield Avenue.
Stirring up dancefloors with their earworms will be Dublin’s indie songwriter Somebody’s Child, Irish hip-hop innovator Malaki, Essex rock band Bilk, gritty alt pop star Mothica, punk-infused hip-hop stars Joey Valence & Brae, Wrexham festival favourites The Royston Club, anthemic indie pop star Lauran Hibberd, soulful songwriter Mya Craig and the effervescent, eclectic punk of Fat Dog.
Gearing up for the stellar weekend ahead, the Thursday night performers announcement sees social media star come indie breakout act James Marriott joined by refreshing Yorkshire indie trio King No-One, Cardiff’s lovable indie-pop outfit Panic Shack and Baby.
This year’s Late Night Leeds selection promises all the night owls and midnight boogiers a veritable feast of danceable tunes, including appearances from drum and bass pioneer Andy C, feel-good garage anthem king Sammy Virji, BBC Radio 1 DJ Jaguar, Watford-born feel good anthem merchant Silk, DJ and music personality Millie Cotton, energetic Irish DJ duo Obskur, House DJ Emma Forster and the era-spanning drum and bass DJ Harriet Jaxxon.
DJ’s also promise to deliver the goods throughout the late hours of Leeds Festival. Kicking up a storm on the dancefloor will be all female DJ Collective Girls Don’t Sync, Australian melodic house DJ Dom Dolla, house-meets-disco DJ Airwolf Paradise, uplifiting beatsmith Georgie Riot, Malaysian hip hop DJ Guiltybeatz, house duo Gentlemens Club and finally Radio 1 Xtra’s DJ SEMTEX.
With just four months to go until the celebrated festival’s gates open in Bramham Park and Richfield Avenue, this latest announcement transforms an already outstanding festival line-up into one that will be remembered for years to come. As a standout rite-of-passage festival with hundreds of thrilling acts, Reading & Leeds is set to return as the ultimate festival weekend of the summer – defining and celebrating the sounds of modern ground-breaking music, as well as boasting a world-class comedy line-up.
Since making their debut at Reading and Leeds Festivals way back in 2002, Brit-Nominated Biffy Clyro return to this year’s festival as the final headliner. The Scot rockers will be taking the place of Queens of the Stone Age, who, due to restrictions and logistics, sadly are unable to perform at the festival. Simon, Ben and James last headlined in 2017 and will be performing hits from across their incredible career including tracks from their latest No.1 album A Celebration Of Endings. The band are very happy to return: “We are delighted and honoured to be headlining Reading & Leeds for a third time.We cannot wait to get out there and play for you all again after such a tough year…It’s gonna fuck!!”
Making their debut at the festivals this year will be Dublin four-piece Inhaler. With their debut album It Won’t Always Be Like This rocketing to the top of the album charts, these lads are set to be the ones to watch as future headliners.
London rapper and songwriter Russ Millions will be bringing his own style of hip hop to the festivals and will undoubtedly perform his Tik Tok dance challenge-inducing #1 Platinum-selling single Body. He can’t wait to get back out there to perform: “I’m excited to be reunited with my supporters again at R&L, let’s turn up!”
Emerging from the pandemic gleaming, Holly Humberstone is one of the biggest breakthrough UK pop acts of 2021. Less than a year since the release of her debut EP, her dark, wonky, electric pop with brutally honest lyrics has gained over 100 million streams worldwide, all recorded from her bedroom in Grantham.
Born and raised in Camden Town but rapidly achieving global recognition, Bakar is set to bring his fresh carefree sound to Reading and Leeds this summer. Refusing to be defined by genre, his sound effortlessly dances the line between indie and rap. HIs soulful offering ‘Hell N Back’ has garnered over 87 million Spotify streams.
South London’s Blanco, at just 21 has already made his mark on the UK rap scene, breaking out as a key member of ’drill dynasty’ Harlem Spartan. Refusing to limit himself, Blanco embraces versatility from Drill rap to Brazilian paired with complex metaphors and cheeky references produce his individual sound, which he is set to bring for an electric set at Reading and Leeds.
Positioned at the unique intersection between metal and hip-hop, Dana Dentata, is a force to be reconned with. Crafting empowering, feminist, industrial, metal-dripping rap, her shock-rock performance art isn’t one to be missed over the festival’s weekends.
Hailing from Dublin, Chaya, is a multi-instrumentalist with classical training, growing up on exclusively classical music until New York City’s underground scene introduced him to the vibrant world of electronic. His diverse influences collide to produce a truly individual sound, often embodying classic UK Garage elements married with classical undercurrents.
Jazmin Bean is a complex and intense enigma, who will be showcasing their intoxicating mix of Alt Metal Electropop to The Pit Stage. Unapologetically impossible to define, Jazmin radiates an empowering sense of individualism, self-integrity, and independence. They embody the spirit of the Gen Z’s vibrant unorthodox subculture.
Indie-Punk three piece from Brighton, Gender Roles follow a whirlwind 2019 full to the brim with a triumphant BBC Radio 1 Maida Vale session with Annie Mac and riotous sell-out headline shows. The trio bombard the stage with charged-up, hazy guitars and a whole lot of chaotic fun.
Born out of sheer “boredom with the state of music at the moment” Punkband, bring pure attitude, punk and swagger to all their raucous tracks. They channel the youth of Britain’s disinterest and disgust in post-punk Britain paired with gritty, unpolished instrumentals.
Also announced today is female rap phenomenon Trillary Banks, who will be set to deliver a captivatingly raw blend of Rap and Dancehall culminating in contagious summer sounds. Trailblazing for women in the UK music landscape, she debuted her ‘FIRE IN THE BOOTH’ freestyle with Charlie Sloth, a rite of passage for any rapper but all the more valuable for female representation.
Essex Golden Boy French The Kid, naturally blends a resonant mix of English and French melodics, aided by growing up in the South-West of France. His bars share deep introspection, tackling mental health, his gritty past as well as looking ahead to the bright future.
Championing a unique style of conscious rap, Kam-Bu, uses his fast-paced, bass-leaden bars to share contemplative stories, stirring up the London scene. He takes aim at urgent political issues from Grenfell to institutional racism, as well as themes on the Black culture and the environment. Smoothly oscillating from party anthems into poignant lyricism, he is not one to be missed.
The BBC Music Introducing Stage will be showcasing the best up and coming talent from across the UK at Reading and Leeds Festival, with artists such as Radio 1 Live Lounge Introducing winner Bonnie Kemplay, Berwyn, who made the BBC Music Sound Of 2021 list, The Rap Game’s Lady Ice and Graft as well as Kent starlet Josie Man, Somerset singer songwriter Finn Askew, Leeds post-punk rockers Yard Act, electronic rising star Meg Ward, South London rapper Master Peace and many more.
Sadly, due to various restrictions and logistics, a few artists are now no longer able to perform at the festivals. This includes Queens of the Stone Age, Madison Beer, Denzel Curry, Sofi Tukker, Super Whatevr, Wallows, Oliver Tree, Tate McRae, MizorMac and Nation of Language.
For those heading to Bramham Park, the Leeds site will again be welcoming a full timetable of after-hours events at Late Night Leeds from Thursday night with DJs and performers taking to the three stages, Anachronica, a new dance stage, and of course the legendary Picadilly Party, to keep festival goers partying until the early hours. With a brand new, audio-visual experience stage, among the line-up on the dance stage will be DJ Semtex, BadBoy Chiller Crew, Fumez The Engineer, Hariett Jaxxon and chart-toper 220 Kid. This year the Anachronica stage is focusing on all things in the forefront of UK dance music. DJs who are pushing the limits and pioneering in Jungle, Garage and Dubstep will be stepping up into the Mad Max-esque world of Anachronica, skillfully salvaged and adapted to blast out some of the biggest tunes late into the night.
Today Reading and Leeds Festivals announce day tickets for the 2021 editions of the festival are on sale now, with day splits also being revealed, alongside some exciting new additions to the line-up including Gerry Cinnamon, girl in red and Sports Team. The three-day festival takes place on 27-29 August 2021, returning to Reading’s famous Richfield Avenue and Leeds’ legendary Bramham Park with headliners Stormzy, Liam Gallagher, Post Malone, Queens of the Stone Age, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Disclosure. Day tickets and full weekend tickets are on sale via https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/reading-and-leeds-festival
Reading and Leeds Festival have also announced several more names across the 2021 main stages. Celebrated British hardcore punk band Gallows are set to make an almighty return to Reading and Leeds, having last performed at the festivals in 2013. Having emerged from the underground punk scene in 2005 with the explosive albums ‘Orchestra of Wolves’, ‘Grey Britain’ and their most recent ‘Desolation Sounds’, the band will undoubtedly bring their confrontational, ferocious and anarchic live performance to the festivals’ stages.
Following their stratospheric rise in 2020, indie alt rock six-piece Sports Team are set for an explosive return to Reading and Leeds in 2021. Their dedicated legion of fans can be sure to expect hits from the band’s chart-topping Mercury Prize nominated debut album ‘Deep Down Happy’ and anticipate a highly electrifying live performance led by frontman Alex Rice.
Nova Twins are also set to bring their dominating, boundless energy to the Reading and Leeds stages. A force to be reckoned with, the London based female duo refuse to conform to any template, championing their own a unique bass-heavy genre-warping sound. They use their platform to advocate inclusivity and diversity, influenced by the socio-political experiences of their day-to-day experiences.
Dreya Mac’s explosion onto the rap scene with her debut single ‘Skippin’ quickly showed the world her ferocious multiple abilities – singing, rapping, dancing and directing. Her performance is set to be a great showcase of the contagious energy and mesmerising flow that’s earning her worthy attention.
Liverpool’s legendary indie rockers The Wombats are also making a return to the Reading and Leeds stages, undoubtedly bringing a selection of their infectious, guitar-driven beats and hooks from across their 4 studio albums, including iconic indie bangers ‘Let’s Dance to Joy Division’ and ‘Moving To New York’, and some future pop licks from their latest album ‘Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life’.
Manchester’s house DJ duo Solardo have rapidly become the main flag-bearers for their hometown’s iconic musical history. Working with CamelPhat, Loco Dice, Eli Brown to name a few, and remixing the likes of Calvin Harris, Gorgon City, Dua Lipa and MK, has led to residencies in Ibiza, giving them the perfect credentials to bring the dance party to Reading and Leeds.
Gerry Cinnamon will be bringing his relatable, anthemic, sing-a-long hits including ‘Canter’ and ‘Sometimes’ to the festival for the first time. The already legendary live performer has been on an exponential rise with his sophomore album shooting straight to UK Number 1 in the Official Album Charts earlier this year. His performance is not to be missed with his ability to whip audiences into a frenzy and inspire electrifying arena-wide singalongs.
With over 50 million followers and the third most-followed music channel in the UK behind Ed Sheeran and One Direction, Watford-born YouTuber and rapper KSI is set to take to the Reading and Leeds festival stage next year. Evolving from a YouTube sensation to boxing champion to a bonafide, respected artist, fans can expect him to play tracks from his critically acclaimed debut studio album Dissimulation.
Bradford’s Bad Boy Chiller Crew (BBCC) meteoric rise from driving an ice-cream van to underground wonders has caught the eye of many, becoming one of the most hyped new acts of 2020. BBCC are modernising the fundamentals of classic old-school garage tunes to produce authentic, bop-worthy bass-lines, ready to hit festival crowds.
The transition from online creator to rapper has proved extremely rewarding for Niko B with his hit ‘Who’s That What’s That’ peaking at No. 26 on the UK Singles Chart this year and also touring with NSG. His blend of hip-hop and comedy has created something unique that the festival audiences will be eager to see.
Originally a YouTube channel sharing founder member Joe Lazcru’s DJ mixes, the Crucast collective featuring Lazcru, Skepsis, Darkzy, Bru-C, TS7, Kanine, Window Kid, and MC AD have been taking the music scene by storm. Pushing a vital new strain of beats that include electro house, DnB, garage, and more, Crucast will be returning to Reading and Leeds in 2021 showcasing plenty of chunk bass and high-octane rhythms that will have the festival crowds dancing well into the night.
girl in red brings a striking blend of raw and relatable alternative pop from Norway, quickly becoming celebrated for her unapologetic, powerful songs about love, mental health, and sexuality. Since breaking onto the scene in 2018, girl in red has captured the attention and hearts of her 6.7 million monthly Spotify listeners, swiftly establishing her as a teenage queer icon.
Following her rise to fame as a YouTuber, Ivorian Doll has hit rap scene hard and true with fiery wordplay and pop appeal all at once. As the self-proclaimed “Queen of Drill”, she will be sure to make her debut performance at Reading and Leeds is one to remember.
Fresh from the release of their critically acclaimed debut album ‘Lie Out Loud’ through the iconic Chess Club Records, Bloxx have fast become a force to be reckoned with in the indie pop world. Led by vocalist/guitarist Fee Booth, the Reading and Leeds crowds can look forward to Bloxx’s cathartic bangers that seamlessly define the emotion attached to growing up in a satellite town and experiencing love for the first time.
Dual-fronted power pop Hot Milk are set to bring a chaotic blend of pop-rock anthems and catchy choruses. In just two short years since exploding onto the scene, their angsty female/male vocal duo approach has commanded them high-profile support slots for the likes of the Foo Fighters and You Me At Six, proving them as ones not to be missed!
DAY SPLITS
FRIDAY READING/SATURDAY LEEDS (A-Z)
AJ Tracey Ashnikko Catfish & The Bottlemen Dreya Mac Gallows Jack Harlow Lewis Capaldi Mabel Madison Beer MK Nova Twins Sports Team Stormzy
SATURDAY READING/SUNDAY LEEDS (A-Z)
Beabadoobee DaBaby Disclosure Dojo Cat Fever 33 Post Malone Sigrid Solardo The Wombats Two Door Cinema Club
SUNDAY READING/FRIDAY LEEDS (A-Z)
100 Gecs Bad Boy Chiller Crew Bloxx Charli XCX Crucast Gerry Cinnamon girl in red Hot Milk Ivorian Doll KSI Liam Gallagher Lyra Neck Deep Niko B Queens Of The Stone Age Sofi Tukker Yungblud
Comedy is an essential part of Reading and Leeds and today the first wave of funny acts have been announced. Panel show favourite Josh Widdicombe will headline the Alternative Stage, entertaining audiences with his quick wit, guaranteed to have festival-goers in stitches. Having found fame as a regular on Channel 4 series The Last Leg, Widdicome has continued his storied career with stellar stand-up shows and rave reviews for his BBC sitcom Josh.
Comedy genius Bridget Christie is ready to take on the Alternative Stage crowds this summer with a headline set. A regular on the comedy scene since 2004 where she won the Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Award the multi-award winner has since gone on to become a regular favourite on TV and radio.
Further Alternative Stage comics include Abigoliah Schamaun (R), Andrew Maxwell (R), Brennan Reece (L), Carl Donnelly, Dane Baptiste, David Morgan, Ed Gamble, Fin Taylor, Kae Kurd, Kiri Pritchard-McLean, Lloyd Griffith, Marcus Brigstocke, Masud Milas, Nick Helm (L), Russell Kane, Shappi Khorsandi and Tom Allen. David Olshanetskyand Naledi Dube will present a live episode of their hit podcast, David’s Out For A Good Time, and spoken-word poet Luke Wright will also be live at Reading Festival. Late night DJs include Hot Dub Time Machine, Buttoned Down Disco (R) and Trangressive Takeover, with special guests to be announced. Festival goers will also be able to take the weight off their feet and settle down to catch film screenings of documentaries including ‘Liam Gallagher: As It Was’ and Frank Sidebottom’s ‘Being Frank: The Chris Sievey Story’.
Alongside the Alternative Stage, more names have been added to the remarkable music line up across the festival weekend. British singer-songwriter Mabel joins the BBC Radio One Stage bill ahead of the release of her anticipated debut album ‘High Expectations’ this July. Fans can expect to hear hits including 2017 platinum record ‘Finders Keepers’ and 2019 top 10 single ‘Don’t Call Me Up’. Irish rock band Picture This will thrill fans when they bring their eagerly anticipated new album, MDRN LV to life alongside indie rockers CHILDCARE. Rap-rock morphers The LaFontaines join the BBC Radio One Dance Stage with rising rap star Barny Fletcher and pop queen Kim Petras. Laura Jane Grace & the Devouring Mothers will bring songs from their emotionally charged debut album ‘Bought To Rot’, the undisputed kings of ‘fashion-art’ rock Palaye Royale join the Pit Stage bill with Californian punk rockers Plague Vendor. Merseyside crew Queen Zee will not hold back bringing their quirky style to The Pit.
American punk rock band Bleached will head to the festivals off the back of their US tour and siblings Sons Of Raphael will also be crossing the pond to bring their unrelenting energy for performances not to be missed. Oddity Road will deliver their heavy riffs and tight infectious songs, Philadelphia singer-songwriter Pink Sweat$ will bring his soothing R&B jams and Kawala, who are currently making waves within the indie music scene since the release of their first single, ‘Small Death’, will also be joining the Festival Republic Stage.
East London drill rapper Unknown T best known for hisbreakout hit Homerton B will be making his Reading and Leeds debut on the BBC 1Xtra Stage, as well as rapper and producer NAV who will be bringing his trademark vocals and hypnotic trap beats to the festival following the release of Billboard number one sophomore record ‘Bad Habits’. Elsewhere, US rapper YBN Nahmir is set to deliver an unforgettable performance, while BiG HEATH, DigDat, Geko and Tyla Yaweh will also be joining the the BBC 1Xtra stage bill.
If that’s not enough, RelentlessAfter Dark have also announced an eclectic line-up for Leeds Festival including Alma (live), Amy Becker, Charlie Sloth & Friends Presents,Crucast (feat Skepsis, Darksy, Mr Virgo, Bru-C, TS7, Lazcru and Window Kid), DJ Jonezy, DJ Semtex, Hannah Wants, Jaguar, James Organ, Jay1, Jess Bays, L U C Y,Mason Maynard, MIC Righteous, Prospa, Rude Kid, Solardo, Stardom, The Menendez Brothers and Unknown T. Relentless After Dark will provide a late night hangout from Thursday to Sunday evening, keeping Leeds Festival energised till the early hours.
Already boasting a phenomenal line-up of indisputable headliners and the hottest voices in modern music, Reading & Leeds has announced even more names for this year’s festivals, taking place between 25 – 27 August 2017 at Richfield Avenue, Reading and Bramham Park, Leeds. Tickets are available here.
Rock ‘n’ roll legend and an unmistakable icon of music history, Liam Gallagher will be bringing his highly anticipated solo performance to Reading and Leeds in a UK Festival Exclusive. One of the most recognised figures in British music, his show will be an attitude filled performance fuelled with Oasis classics and tracks from his debut solo record; announcing the next huge step for the nation’s most unmissable frontman.
Undeniable alt-rock sensations PVRIS will be laying out their marker for the year ahead at Reading and Leeds, as they return to the stage ahead of their long-awaited sophomore record. After becoming the hottest name in emerging rock with the release of debut album White Noise in 2014, their electro-infused anthems have continued to resonate with an audience of devoted fans eager for their next chapter.
Long Beach trailblazer and Def Jam star, Vince Staples has become the definitive voice of rising hip-hop. Earning the respect of influential musical figures such as Odd Future, Earl Sweatshirt, Mac Miller, and Gorillaz following his debut album Summertime 06, his eagerly awaited appearance at Reading and Leeds this summer is sure to be an unmissable coronation of future rap royalty.
From one generation to another, timeless drum and bass titan Goldie will make a very special stop at this year’s Reading & Leeds festivals. A true innovator for a genre and a movement, Goldie transcends British culture, with classic LP Timeless still sounding as raw and captivating as it first did upon release in 1995. With a new album set for release, 2017 is the year Goldie returns with a bang, laid out in full colour at Reading & Leeds this summer.
With an incredible variety of genres and styles spread across the festival's six stages, Reading & Leeds is bursting with exciting names and defining sounds for 2017 and beyond.
MAIN STAGE
With huge headline performances set from the likes of Kasabian, Eminem and Muse, even more names have been confirmed for their standout moment in the sun on that iconic Reading & Leeds Main Stage. Along with the unmissable returns of Liam Gallagher and PVRIS, politically-charged garage rockers VANT will be making the step-up, following on from a festival-stopping set on last year’s Festival Republic Stage. With debut album Dumb Blood radiating unstoppable hits, expect their performance at this year’s festival to be a journey into unfiltered riffs in full glory. Grunge-tinged indie-pop pair Honeyblood will lay out tracks from second studio album Babes Never Die at the festivals, with LA blues rock duo Deap Vally will be bringing Femejism to both sites, and frenetic London quartet Judas heading back to the Main Stage after their sensational last-minute slot at Leeds last year.
Lynn Gunn, PVRIS:
“We are incredibly grateful to be performing again at Reading & Leeds. Our first experience at the festival was phenomenal and took us completely by surprise. We are excited to see what comes from it this time around and perhaps even play some new tunes *wink wink*
Deap Vally; "We can't wait to return to the R & L stage and show everyone how it's done”!
Judas;
"We feel totally honoured and privileged to be asked to open the main stage this year. We have been working so hard for so long and it's amazing to be rewarded with the chance to play the main stage at the best music festival in the U.K. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, see you in August! Let's have it"
Honeyblood
“Mega excited to be playing Reading and Leeds this year! It's such a legendary festival and it's an absolute dream come true be on the main stage.”
NME / RADIO ONE STAGE
Spilling with big names and rising favourites, including previously announced headliners You Me At Six, Flume and Haim, the NME/Radio One Stage has announced even more stand-out sets over the weekend. Monumental live performances will come from Mura Masa, the electronic maestro behind hits ‘Love$ick’ and ‘Firefly’. The highly acclaimed producer and multi-instrumentalist will reign over Reading and Leeds with thundering beats and a set that promises to point towards one of the most exciting artists in the world. Bass-giant Sub Focus is set to up the ante with an unmissable live set of eclectic dance, having released new material Lingua earlier this year.
Having made a name for herself through collaborations with Rudimental, Sean Paul and Clean Bandit, Anne-Marie is set to bring her mellifluous melodies and infectious synth lines to the festival. Teenage singer-songwriter extraordinaire Declan McKenna is another new name on the bill who is most definitely primed for big things over the year ahead. Possessing a live show that lights up packed venues and TV screens wherever he goes, and with a debut album out this summer, Declan McKenna’s moment is here and Reading and Leeds is the place to be to witness it all.
Chicago’s The Orwells will be packing out their muscular riffs and catchy refrains for an unpredictable appearance this year, along with Marika Hackman, whose hotly tipped new album I’m Not Your Man is set to drop this summer, full of distinct melodies and a bolder new sound. Expect it to go down a treat when Marika Hackman steps up to the Reading & Leeds stage this summer.
Brighton geek-rockers The Magic Gang, melancholy indie scuzz three piece Blaenavon and Australia's psych-pop groovers Pond are also lined up for stunning moments over the weekend, while further additions King No-One, SG Lewis, Mutemath and X Ambassadors all add to making the NME/Radio One Stage a not to be missed musical destination throughout the festival.
Declan McKenna;
“Reading & Leeds is definitely going to be a highlight of the year for me. Am so excited to finally be playing at a festival I love so much and have been to so many times.”
Zach Lount, King No One; "Reading and Leeds is such an amazing platform to spread who we are and drive our message of equality to more and more people. We can't wait to share our biggest moment”
FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE
With headliners Bear’s Den, The Black Lips and The Hunna already primed for rapturous sets – the Festival Republic Stage is once again overflowing with future stars and acts possessing that special something that’ll take them to a whole new level. These include renowned garage rock heroes Japandroids, who returned earlier this year with acclaimed new album Near To The Wild Heart Of Life packed full of the shout-along hooks that have packed venues across the globe. 90s guitar riffers Ash are primed for a return to the festivals with a catalogue of indisputable hits at their disposal, while the transcendent grooves of US ambient-electro force Cigarettes After Sex are sure to be a highlight of the festival weekend.
Dazzling with a who’s who of names destined to burst into record collections over the next 12 months, the stage will play host to the likes of Aussie dance-psych kings Jagwar Ma with their infectious cuts from latest LP Every Now & Then, trailblazing indie-noir heroes Black Honey, glacial electro swooner The Japanese House, all-encompassing cinematic dreamers Pumarosa, modern pop tilter Bishop Briggs and Danish eruptive-pop trio Off Bloom amongst others.
After releasing their acclaimed debut About U, MUNA will make their first appearance at the festivals – promising a powerhouse show full of lush harmonies and potent pop perfection. They’ll be joined across the weekend by vibrant guitar-pop gang The Big Moon, sun-soaked pop prince Will Joseph Cook, US garage rock kickers The Districts, Dirty Hit two piece Superfood, Sydney duo Vallis Alps, distinct bassline pointer Cosima, blistering indie upstarts Paris Youth Foundation and the blues-fuelled highs of Ten Tonnes for landmark moments at every turn.
With further sets confirmed from Barns Courtney (Reading Only), LA creator Mondo Cozmo and electric pop swaggers OUTLYA – the Festival Republic Stage is a must-see look at the future of music and the world’s next favourite acts.
Tim Wheeler, Ash;
"We’re very proud to announce an historic 10th appearance for Ash at the Reading festival. We first performed there in 1995 and our shows at the festival stand among our favourite shows that we’ve ever played, it’s always been a highlight of each year we’ve done it. Somewhere along the way we were promised a statue upon reaching our 10th appearance, so we’re looking forward to the grand unveiling in August!"
Black Honey; "We've been going to Reading and Leeds since we were little, it's where I crowd surfed for the first time and fell in love with music, it feels so fucking good to be back on the other side of the barrier again this year"
Barns Courtney;
“Looking forward to making my debut appearance at one of my fave UK festivals which was the 1st one I ever a went to as a kid! Looking forward to rocking your little socks off Reading and thanks for the invite”
MUNA;
"We love the U.K. and are beyond thrilled and excited to be able to finally play a festival there!”
THE PIT/LOCK-UP STAGE
Bringing together the hottest names from every inch of the rock world, The Pit/Lock-Up Stage is set to play host to the most genre-defining sets of the weekend as Japanese leaders ONE OK ROCK, riotous live favourites Gnarwolves, riff masters Arcane Roots, high-octane lo-fi duo PWR BTTM and American heavyweights Breaking Benjamin will storm the coveted rock spotlight.
French electro-doom bringer Carpenter Brut, bass-heavy Bristol natives Turbowolf, and grime-punk new bloods Astroid Boys promise to redefine the very meaning of blistering festival performances, whilst Boston Manor, Defeater, VUKOVI, God Damn, WSTR, and Viagra Boys are destined to steal the stage with their raw punk behaviour.
In a seismic billing of alternative power, critically acclaimed Zeal & Ardor are set to bring anthemic black metal to the stage as hotly tipped acts Palisades and Casey reinforce the unapologetic intensity of The Pit/Lock-Up Stage. A monumental mix of fierce acts including Tigers Jaw, Big Jesus, Tired Lion, Culture Abuse, Muncie Girls, TIGERCUB, SLØTFACE, RavenEye, Freak and LIFE promise to take 2017 to another level.
Andrew Groves, Arcane Roots;
Playing the esteemed Reading & Leeds Festival last year was one of the highlights of our career, so to be asked to play again this year, with a new album on the way and an ambitious new sound, is both an honour and a opportunity to unveil what we've only teased at so far. Reading & Leeds has always felt like a proving ground to us, and we'll be certain to bring something special with the likes of Billy Talent shortly after us.
Thom Weeks, Gnarwolves;
"We're very excited to be playing Reading and Leeds this year. It'll be our 4th time at Reading and we get to play on the stage we first played on 4 years ago! I spent my teenage years at Reading, watching bands like Thursday and Sick Of It All, so getting to play is like living out a teenage fantasy…4 times!"
Ben Hopkins, PWR BTTM;
"My mind is completely blown that we are going to be playing Reading and Leeds where so many incredible bands have played for so many years. I just hope my outfit looks good!!!”
Lande Hekt, Muncie Girls:
“We're so exciting to go back to Reading and Leeds this year. Last time Eminem played, Dido made a surprise appearance and amongst the thousands of shocked fans, there wasn't a dry eye to be seen. We can only hope for the same this year. Also the Lock Up stage is amazing. What a way to end our summer!”
Sløtface;
"Just thinking of the fact that we'll be on the same poster as Kasabian, Charli XCX, At The Drive In and Eminem is really exciting. We love the festival life in the UK and this is the biggest UK festival we've ever done, so this has to be amazing.”
BBC 1XTRA STAGE
Promising to be one of the most exciting stages of the weekend, the BBC 1Xtra Stage welcomes Manchester’s finest Bugzy Malone. The northern Grime wordsmith’s credentials remain unchallenged with genre-defining E.P’s Walk With Me and Facing Time entering the UK Album Chart Top Ten. With videos of his flawless freestyles and music videos racking up over 90 million views; it’s no surprise he returns to Reading and Leeds as the stage’s final headliner.
New additions today include London’s grime queen, Stefflon Don, explosive American rapper Vince Staples, the hotly tipped West London MC AJ Tracey, MOBO Award Winner Abra Cadabra, and one of America’s most exciting hip-hop artists and producers, Russ.
Lord of The Mics legend, P Money will take to the BBC 1Xtra Stage, whilst Dante Jones and Drew Love appear as R&B success story, THEY. Critically acclaimed Canadian DJ Lunice will be bringing his highly anticipated mix of hip-hop, breakbeat and trap to the festival alongside hip-hop polymath Akala, freestyle master Big Tobz and grime young blood Jaykae. In addition to these incredible names, DJ Semtex (Reading only), Not3s, Bossman Birdie, A2, and Monster Florence also join the line-up, making for the most exciting BBC 1Xtra Stage billing to date.
Bugzy Malone; "I cannot wait to get back on stage at Reading and Leeds. It will be my third year in a row and I'm so gassed to be headlining the BBC 1Xtra stage. I've got a few surprises planned, so make sure you get there early."
P Money;
"Glad to be back! Third time is always the best time! Grime in full effect"
DJ Semtex
"The raw energy and excitement of the crowd that Reading and Leeds festival attracts is unrivalled. They demand the hardest, pounding abrasive sounds, and I love that. For me this is the event of the year."
BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE
With Goldie announced today, the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage packs the biggest electro line up of the summer, with new additions today including radio icon and contemporary tastemaker Mistajam. A gatekeeper to the most exciting music of the present day, he’ll take to the coveted stage alongside Brentford’s finest pirate radio DJ crew Kurupt FM, live beat-maker and multi-instrumentalist Jax Jones, and garage sound-system stars Heartless Crew. With Delta Heavy, Monki, and Hospital Records’ own Metrik also confirmed for moments across the weekend, the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage will once again provide an exciting soundtrack to the bank holiday weekend.
Already soaked in unmistakable dance royalty, the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage will be full of electronic boundary-pushers throughout the weekend, including seismic blending from South London’s prodigal beat maker Jacob Plant, garage pioneers Dreem Teem, homegrown house producer Kideko and a Fabric favourites B2B set from Loadstar and Matrix & Futurebound. Also added today and set to provide a fitting summer soundtrack is LANY, the alt-pop trio known for their sunset haze sound, Alma, who will be on hand with her tropical house beats and powerhouse vocals, and indie-pop charmers HAUS.
Jacob Plant;
"I can't wait to play R&L this year! It's hands down my favourite festival to play in the world. This will be my 4th time playing and every year gets bigger and better!"
Loadstar;
'We are delighted to be playing at Reading & Leeds festival this year, its definitely one of those festival's we've always dreamt of playing and to be part of the massive line up for the R1 dance stage is huge honour…see you there!'
LANY;
"Reading and Leeds is muddy and weird and perfect. I can't wait to be back."
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.
With their sixth studio album set for release this spring, rock juggernauts Kasabian stand as one of the biggest and most beloved British bands of the 21st century. Their unmistakable modern-day rock & roll anthems have seen them reinvent themselves from the vintage classics of West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum, through to the electro-infused party starters of recent album 48:13. A band leading the charge in modern British rock – their UK Festival Exclusive performance at Reading & Leeds will mark an invigorating new chapter for a defining band of our time.
Kasabiancommented: “It’s been five years, and as a band we have come a long way since then. We’re looking forward to playing tunes from the new record and bringing the mosh pit to Reading & Leeds Festival!”
Two Door Cinema Clubjoin the impressive line up for another vibrant performance at Reading and Leeds. Expect old favourites alongside new tracks from latest album Gameshow, as the Northern Irish trio smash yet another festival crowd on their way to indie immortality.
Two Door Cinema Club commented: "It's so good to be back at Reading and Leeds, it's always a highlight of our summer. Good to see so many guitar bands on the bill this year as well."
Aussie electro king Flume is set to touch down at Reading & Leeds this summer. Latest album Skin saw him branch into stunning collaborations with AlunaGeorge, Vic Mensa, Vince Staples and Beck amongst others. Expect a stellar production of the soundtrack to 2017 when one of the most in-demand producers in modern dance, Flume takes to the Reading & Leeds stage for a UK Festival Exclusive performance.
No British DJ stands as iconic as Fatboy Slim. In the span of his 20 year career, he not only pioneered an entire revolution in British dance, but became the genre’s leading face and changed a generation in the process. From ‘The Rockafeller Skank’, through ‘Praise You’, ‘Right Here, Right Now’ and many more, Fatboy Slim’s first ever performance at Reading & Leeds this summer is guaranteed to leave festival-goers wanting to ‘Eat, Sleep, Rave, Repeat’ for the entire weekend.
Following the success of his top ten album The Godfather, Wiley returns to Reading and Leeds in 2017. Widely acknowledged for laying the foundations for one of the most explosive and important genres of the 21st century, catch the godfather himself performing his art in its purest form.
Circa Waves will mark their unstoppable return with an appearance at this year’s festivals, bringing their hotly anticipated new album Different Creatures to life with the live presence that has catapulted them to sold-out shows across the globe.
Talking about playing Reading & Leeds this year, Circa Waves said: “We are SO made up to be playing Reading and Leeds again. We are so ready for the festival and can't wait to tear the stage up!”
Undisputedly one of the most influential pop-punk rock acts of the past 20 years, Jimmy Eat World powered the 90’s emo scene with inimitable songwriting and epic live performances that made them a cult phenomenon. JEW’s strike rate on hit records since then speak for themselves; alongside 2001’s “The Middle”, the likes of “Pain”, “Work”, “Sweetness” and “Always Be” have not only helped them attain chart success here but also a vehemently loyal fanbase in the UK and around the world. As Jimmy Eat World return to the Reading and Leeds Festival stage once more, in support of their recently released album Integrity Blues, this will be a moment that cannot be missed.
Aussie metalcore titans The Amity Affliction will make their way to Reading & Leeds this summer for a UK Festival Exclusive performance, bringing their unmistakable sound to new levels after a mammoth 12 months of touring around the globe. One of the most talked about post-hardcore bands of the moment, their debut appearance at Reading & Leeds will be a calling moment of a band in their element.
Joel Birch of The Amity Affliction says: "I can’t actually believe we’re going to be playing Reading and Leeds. What a wild dream we’re living in. After seeing insane photos of these festivals for my entire adult life and wishing I could just go as an attending music lover, it’s going to be an extremely special experience for me personally to be standing on those stages."
After a mammoth 12 months of trail-blazing live moments with a growing legion of devoted fans, Rat Boy will be returning to Reading & Leeds in August. Sparking with a youthful rebellion that’s captivated a nation, his riotous performance is not to be missed this summer.
ANNOUNCED TODAY
Kasabian | Two Door Cinema Club | Flume | Fatboy Slim | Wiley | Circa Waves | Jimmy Eat World |
The Amity Affliction | Rat Boy
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
Muse | Major Lazer | Bastille | At The Drive In | Architects | Torey Lanez | Glass Animals | Against The Current | Danny Brown | Andy C | While She Sleeps
Reading & Leeds Festivals announce Muse, in a UK Festival exclusive, as the first headliners for next year’s festival, taking place 25-27 August 2017.
Stadium rock royalty, Muse are one of the most influential and revered live bands of modern times. Led by the commanding presence of frontman Matt Bellamy, the trio have taken to the biggest stages around the world with their interstellar anthems for over 22 years, and their return to Reading & Leeds promises to be yet another landmark moment in their storied career.
Muse commented:
"We’re very excited to be playing Reading and Leeds again. More news about our plans for 2017 coming in the new year."
Also confirmed for Reading & Leeds 2017 in a UK Festival Exclusive, are dancehall-rejuvenators Major Lazer. Diplo, Jillionaire and Walshy Fire have become the soundtrack of modern dance, claiming No.1 records, chart-dominating tracks such as ‘Lean On’ and ‘Cold Water’ as well as live shows packed with genre-mashing moments promising an unrivalled party atmosphere.
With a worldwide legion of fans and a catalogue of defining pop anthems, Bastille stand as one of the biggest acts on the planet. Their storming breakout album Bad Blood saw the band catapulted onto playlists, sell out venues, scooping BRIT Awards and selling over 7 million albums. With latest LP Wild World once again dominating the charts on both sides of the Atlantic, expect to witness a crowning moment as true modern titans return to Reading & Leeds.
At The Drive-In are set to bring their high-octane and powerful live show to Reading & Leeds this year, returning to the festival after their sold out world tour in 2016. Establishing an entire genre with their seminal 2000 LP Relationship Of Command, their unpredictable live shows bring a timely reminder as to why they remain such an influential powerhouse in alternative music.
Having released one of the most critically revered hip hop records of the year, Danny Brown will be bringing his world renowned individuality to the stage at Reading & Leeds Festival. Throughout his musical career he’s remained daring and distinctive when delivering his personal message, resulting in an atmospheric and emotional performance that’s not to be missed.
In terms of celebrated post-hardcore British bands, none may be as vital and influential as Architects. Through a career with numerous defiant moments, Brighton’s very own have forged a path of their own such as recently headlining a mammoth evening at London’s Brixton Academy fresh from the release of acclaimed album All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us. Expect an emotionally charged return to Reading & Leeds for a UK Festival Exclusive performance of immeasurable significance.
Glass Animalscontinue to demonstrate why they are set to be one of the true global breakthrough artists of 2016. How To Be A Human Being was released at the end of August via Caroline International / Wolf Tone to rave album reviews, and Radio 1 and 6 music A-listed singles ‘Life Itself’ and ‘Youth’. The band have had a phenomenal live year, selling out their entire UK, EU and US tours and amassing well over 200 million Spotify streams. 2017 will see the band continue their anomalous rise, starting with Singapore, Australia and New Zealand in January, followed by the band's biggest UK tour to date, including Brixton Academy on March 16th.
One of the most recognisable voices of the past 12 months, Tory Lanez will be making an appearance at Reading & Leeds 2017. With standout single ‘LUV’ heralded as an indisputable late-night party anthem, the Canadian breakout star is on the cusp of world domination.
Powered by catchy, upbeat melodies and the strong voice of frontwoman Chrissy Costanza, Against The Current will dominate their first ever Reading & Leeds performance with tracks from this year’s debut album In Our Bones. They’ll be joined on the bill by drum and bass icon Andy C. His incredible career has seen him headline some of the biggest stages and moments in the genre’s history, most recently including his sell out shows at Brixton Academy and Alexandra Palace. Equally as momentous will be the return of While She Sleeps, British metalcore’s undeniable DIY heroes who’ll be back in 2017 with their anticipated third album You Are We.
With hundreds of acts set to play across eight stages, Reading & Leeds is once again the unmissable festival weekend of the summer – defining and celebrating the who’s who of modern ground breaking music.
CONFIRMED TODAY
Against The Current | Andy C | Architects (UK Festival Exclusive) | At The Drive-In | Bastille | Danny Brown | Glass Animals | Major Lazer (UK Festival Exclusive) | Muse | Tory Lanez | While She Sleeps
Leading the comedy line up is the phenomenally talented Russell Howard who has enjoyed massive success with Russell Howard’s Good News, establishing Russell as one of the UK’s most successful comedians and a rising international star.
Bill Bailey will be returning to Reading and Leeds after his incredible performance in 2014. Known for the astounding musical knowledge that saw him become a panel show staple on Never Mind the Buzzcocks, as well as starring in Channel 4’s sitcom Black Books, Bailey will be delighting the Reading and Leeds audiences as his famous Limboland world tour makes a stop at both festival sites in August.
Joining them over the Bank Holiday weekend is an extensive array of well-known comedic figures including Radio 4 stalwart and one of Britain’s finest comedians Marcus Brigstocke. Katherine Ryan will be entertaining audiences with her razor sharp critique of pop culture alongside Well Good prankster Lee Nelson, the flamboyant flow of Russell Kane and Impractical Jokers’ very own Joel Dommett.
Further Alternative Stage appearances will come from outspoken political commentator Owen Jones who will be in conversation with Andy Parsons alongside performances from Sara Pascoe, Holly Walsh, The Boy With Tape On His Face, Andrew Maxwell, Mark Steel, Tom Deacon (Reading Only), John Robins, Carl Donnelly (Leeds Only), Daniel Simonsen, Dane Baptiste, Lloyd Griffith (Reading Only), Al Porter, Angela Barnes, Jamali Maddix, Lauren Pattison (Leeds Only) and Alternative Stage MC’s David Morgan, Iain Stirling, Dan Nightingale (Leeds Only) and Ian Boldsworth (Reading Only).
The Alternative Stage will also play host to a vast array of late night entertainment throughout the weekend, including a special appearance from the US hip-hop icon Grandmaster Flash who’ll be performing an explosive set at Leeds Festival only. He’ll be joined by hip-hop turntablist DJ Yoda and the impressive stylings of Rave Karaoke and Nightmares From The Discotheque for a full-throttled evening of entertainment, ensuring that Leeds will be dancing late into the night.
Masterful indie club night Propaganda will once again provide a late night euphoric disco soundtrack with special guest appearances from This Is England’s Thomas Turgoose, DJ Dan and many more, with Buttoned Up Disco also on hand with the rock, pop, punk and indie party-starters. Then be ready to travel back in time, with the unrivalled Hot Dub Time Machine bringing the world’s very first time-travelling party to Reading & Leeds this summer, taking you back on a journey through the defining hits of over 60 years of good times.
With the previously announced Kurupt FM Presents Champagne Steam Rooms and Cassetteboy vs DJ Rubbish also taking to the stage over the weekend, the Alternative Stage offers a different spin on the UK festival experience, making Reading and Leeds 2016 the ultimate festival party of the summer.
Reading and Leeds 2016 boasts the biggest names, sounds and festival moments for another year, with 5 headliners over 3 days – Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foals, Biffy Clyro, Disclosure and Fall Out Boy. They head up an unmissable Bank Holiday weekend which also includes performances by Jack Ü, The 1975, Two Door Cinema Club, Boy Better Know, Chvrches, Imagine Dragons, The Vaccines, A$AP Rocky, HAIM, Nas, Good Charlotte, Asking Alexandria, Fetty Wap and over 200 more.
ALTERNATIVE STAGE ANNOUNCED TODAY
Russell Howard
Bill Bailey
Marcus Brigstocke
Katherine Ryan
Russell Kane
Lee Nelson
Owen Jones in conversation with Andy Parsons
The Boy With Tape On His Face
Andrew Maxwell
Sara Pascoe
Holly Walsh
Joel Dommett
Mark Steel
Carl Donnelly (Leeds Only)
John Robins
Tom Deacon (Reading Only)
Daniel Simonsen
Dane Baptiste
Al Porter
Angela Barnes
Lloyd Griffith (Reading Only)
Lauren Pattison (Leeds Only)
Jamali Maddix
Mark Grist
Mystry
Anthony Anaxagorou
David Morgan (MC)
Iain Stirling (MC)
Dan Nightingale (Leeds Only)
Ian Boldsworth (Reading Only)
Grandmaster Flash (Leeds Only)
DJ Yoda (Leeds Only)
Rave Karaoke (Leeds Only)
Nightmares From The Discotheque (Leeds Only)
Propaganda with Special Guests Including This Is England’s Thomas Turgoose, DJ Dan + More
Buttoned Down Disco
Hot Dub Time Machine
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
Biffy Clyro (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fall Out Boy (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Red Hot Chili Peppers (Headline)
Foals (Co-Headline)
Disclosure (Co-Headline)
Imagine Dragons (European Festival Exclusive)
Jack Ü
Two Door Cinema Club
The 1975
Courteeners
Boy Better Know
Chvrches
The Vaccines (UK Festival Exclusive)
A$AP Rocky (UK Festival Exclusive)
HAIM (UK Festival Exclusive)
Jack Garratt
Nas (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Turner
Kano
Good Charlotte (UK Festival Exclusive)
Coheed and Cambria
Mastodon
Tonight Alive (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Wombats
Twenty One Pilots (UK Festival Exclusive)
Crystal Castles (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fetty Wap (UK Festival Exclusive)
Eagles Of Death Metal (UK Festival Exclusive)
Slaves
Parkway Drive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Nothing But Thieves
The Internet (UK Festival Exclusive)
Rat Boy
Hinds
Lower Than Atlantis (UK Festival Exclusive)
Asking Alexandria (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Dillinger Escape Plan (UK Festival Exclusive)
Travi$ Scott (UK Festival Exclusive)
G-Eazy (UK Festival Exclusive)
Skindred
Five Finger Death Punch (UK Festival Exclusive)
Sleeping With Sirens (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Neighbourhood (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes
State Champs
Savages
Die Antwoord (UK Festival Exclusive)
Cage The Elephant (UK Festival Exclusive)
Krept & Konan
Sigma
Half Moon Run
Basement
Blossoms
Mura Masa
Spring King
Sunset Sons
Deaf Havana
Haelos
The Virginmarys
Third Eye Blind
Clutch
Black Foxxes
The Temper Trap
Brian Fallon And The Crowes
BØRNS
Lapsley
Charlie Sloth
Arcane Roots
Fickle Friends
Eagulls
Whitney
Clean Cut Kid
Pulled Apart By Horses
Ezra Furman
VANT
Big Narstie
The Magic Gang
Blaenavon
The Hunna
LANY
The Sherlocks
DMA’s
Rationale
Beach Baby
Transviolet
Isaac Gracie
Giggs
Netsky
Highly Suspect (UK Festival Exclusive)
Sundara Karma
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard
Palace
Lewis Del Mar
LUH
Otherkin
Anteros
Will Joseph Cook
White Miles
Gnash
The Beach
The Vryll Society
Area 52
Tibet
Thrice
Hacktivist
DMAs
LUH
Nothing More
Milk Teeth
Ghost Town
Greywind
Giraffe Tongue Orchestra
MGK
Heck
ROAM
Beach Slang
SWMRS
Superheaven
Big Spring
Waterparks
Yung Lean
Hoodie Allen
Maverick Sabre
Metro Boomin
Little Simz
Fekky
Geko
Bugzy Malone
Logic
K.Flay
Sneakbo
Baauer
Mick Jenkins
Kiko Bun
Troyboi
Franko Fraize
Clara Amfo
SOPHIE
Danny L Harle
Rag’n’Bone Man
Friction
Fred V & Grafix
Delta Heavy
The Japanese House
99 Souls
Redlight
Lion Babe
AlunaGeorge
Duke Dumont
David Rodigan MBE
Disciples
My Nu Leng B2B Oneman + Dread MC (Reading) / Oneman B2B My Nu Leng + Dread MC (Leeds)
One of the most entertaining figures in British culture today, Big Narstie has become a true superstar of the internet age. The BDL figurehead has helped usher in the new era of Grime dominance with his punchy vocal flow and unmistakable presence, dropping by mainstream TV and chart features with ease. Catching a viral sensation in the flesh, Big Narstie’s appearances on the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage are set to be a true highlight of a legend in the making at this year’s festivals.
Californian heroes Third Eye Blind are set to return to British shores with a hugely anticipated set on the Festival Republic Stage. Following the sold out London & Manchester shows last November, American alternative rock band Third Eye Blind return to the UK for Reading and Leeds. Expect the classics and fan favourites from the first 4 albums, along with songs from their recently released ‘Dopamine’ album.
The favourites of today and the future reign supreme at Reading and Leeds 2016, as seen by the return of Deaf Havana take to the stage armed with a catalogue of unifying rock tales and new material from an upcoming fourth studio album that’s sure to see airplay at their NME/Radio 1 Stage appearance. Rising pop-soul queen Låpsley has drawn vast plaudits for her recently released debut LP ‘Long Way Home’ and her mercurial sound is sure to create a unique and bewitching spectacle on the Festival Republic Stage, whilst Arcane Roots and their heavy-hitting onslaught is sure to be a massive hit over at the Lock Up Stage.
Across a spectrum of stages, Reading and Leeds provides a true platter of game-changing music with a variety of names added to the line up today.
MAIN STAGE
Joining a mammoth line up on the Main Stage that already boasts appearances from the biggest names in modern music are American groove-benders Clutch, celebrating 25 years and 11 studio albums of forward-thinking alternative rock. They are joined today by Macclesfield trio The Virginmarys whose set of riotous punk comes fresh off the back of sophomore album ‘Divides’. Providing an opportunity to seize the biggest stage of the summer, the Main Stage is lined up to provide festival moment after festival moment at Reading and Leeds 2016.
NME / RADIO 1 STAGE
With Deaf Havana announced for their return to Reading and Leeds, the NME/Radio 1 Stage is also set to host the hotly-tipped six-piece Whitney who’s deftly Americana sound has seen them rise into a bonafide force of their own. Formed for just over a year, their debut appearance at Reading and Leeds Festival is sure to be a riveting affair. Joining them are Fickle Friends who have been on the tongues of new music fans for over 18 months, steadily building a reputation for dazzling tropical indie and delectable pop hooks that are sure to bring the sunshine to Reading and Leeds this summer.
THE PIT/LOCK UP STAGE
Alongside Arcane Roots being announced today is the distorted scuzz sound of Ghost Town. Infusing electronic dance music with dank heavy vibrations to form a true hybrid spectacle, Ghost Town will be coming to The Pit with sheer ferocious intent fresh from having spent the entire summer on the Warped Tour in America. Also on the Lock Up stage, rising favourites Greywind will touch down for a hotly anticipated performance, as the Irish brother-sister duo unleash a wave of sound that cements just why they remain one of the hottest properties in rock today. Full of originality and sensational live spectacles, The Pit/Lock Up Stage once again boasts the best in the heavy rock sphere.
FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE
Full of the headliners and the anthemic sounds of tomorrow, the Festival Republic Stage has added even more of the hottest names in ground-breaking new sounds. Psychedelic Australian rockers King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard will be launching into dense technicolour, whilst ethereal sound-scapers Palace will continue their rise with an emphatic and moon-lit set this summer. With further appearances announced for pop groover Will Joseph Cook, Austrian ‘stoner-rock’ duo White Miles and the alternative neo-indie of Gnash, the Festival Republic Stage is once again the place to be.
1XTRA STAGE
With Big Narstie announced today, the BBC 1XTRA Stage packs the biggest urban festival line up of the summer, with new additions including radio icon Charlie Sloth; arguably the voice of British urban music and a true champion of innovative and fresh hip-hop from around the globe. He’ll take to the decks alongside names including established South London MC Sneakbo, Jay Z collaborator Baauer, US underground starlet Mick Jenkins, Kiko Bun and his modern take on classic reggae and admired producer Troyboi. With The Range and Rude Kid also confirmed for moments across the weekend, the BBC 1XTRA Stage will provide an exciting soundtrack to the bank holiday weekend.
Stuffed full of incredible music and festival memories, Reading and Leeds 2016 will break new ground with 5 Headliners Over 3 Days, with Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foals, Biffy Clyro, Disclosure and Fall Out Boy all commanding euphoric celebrations for landmark headlining performances. They head up a bill that includes the leading names in rock, indie, dance, hip-hop, RnB and everything in-between featuring Jack U, The 1975, Two Door Cinema Club, Boy Better Know, Chvrches, Imagine Dragons, The Vaccines, A$AP Rocky, HAIM, Nas, Good Charlotte, Asking Alexandria, Fetty Wap and over 200 more. The epicentre of alternative music, Reading and Leeds is once again destined to cement the next generation of musical legends.
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
Biffy Clyro (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fall Out Boy (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Red Hot Chili Peppers (Headline)
Foals (Co-Headline)
Disclosure (Co-Headline)
Imagine Dragons (European Festival Exclusive)
Jack Ü
Two Door Cinema Club
The 1975
Courteeners
Boy Better Know
Chvrches
The Vaccines (UK Festival Exclusive)
A$AP Rocky (UK Festival Exclusive)
HAIM (UK Festival Exclusive)
Jack Garratt
Nas (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Turner
Kano
Good Charlotte (UK Festival Exclusive)
Coheed and Cambria
Mastodon
Tonight Alive (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Wombats
Twenty One Pilots (UK Festival Exclusive)
Crystal Castles (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fetty Wap (UK Festival Exclusive)
Eagles Of Death Metal (UK Festival Exclusive)
Slaves
Parkway Drive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Nothing But Thieves
The Internet (UK Festival Exclusive)
Rat Boy
Hinds
Lower Than Atlantis (UK Festival Exclusive)
Asking Alexandria (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Dillinger Escape Plan (UK Festival Exclusive)
Travi$ Scott (UK Festival Exclusive)
G-Eazy (UK Festival Exclusive)
Skindred
Five Finger Death Punch (UK Festival Exclusive)
Sleeping With Sirens (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Neighbourhood (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes
State Champs
Savages
Die Antwoord (UK Festival Exclusive)
Cage The Elephant (UK Festival Exclusive)
Krept & Konan
Sigma
Half Moon Run
Basement
Blossoms
Mura Masa
Spring King
Sunset Sons
Haelos
Black Foxxes
The Temper Trap
Brian Fallon And The Crowes
BØRNS
Eagulls
Clean Cut Kid
Pulled Apart By Horses
Ezra Furman
VANT
The Magic Gang
Blaenavon
The Hunna
LANY
The Sherlocks
DMA’s
Rationale
Beach Baby
Transviolet
Isaac Gracie
Giggs
Netsky
Highly Suspect (UK Festival Exclusive)
Sundara Karma
Lewis Del Mar
LUH
Otherkin
Anteros
The Beach
The Vryll Society
Area 52
Tibet
Thrice
Hacktivist
DMAs
LUH
Nothing More
Milk Teeth
Giraffe Tongue Orchestra
MGK
Heck
ROAM
Beach Slang
SWMRS
Superheaven
Big Spring
Waterparks
Yung Lean
Hoodie Allen
Maverick Sabre
Metro Boomin
Little Simz
Fekky
Geko
Bugzy Malone
Logic
K.Flay
Franko Fraize
Clara Amfo
SOPHIE
Danny L Harle
Rag’n’Bone Man
Friction
Fred V & Grafix
Delta Heavy
The Japanese House
99 Souls
Redlight
Lion Babe
AlunaGeorge
Duke Dumont
David Rodigan MBE
Disciples
My Nu Leng B2B Oneman + Dread MC (Reading) / Oneman B2B My Nu Leng + Dread MC (Leeds)
