The Isle of Wight festival has a history dating back to when it was a ‘counterculture’ event that was held from 1968 to 1970. Its history lists an enviable list of artists including Bob Dylan in 1969, Jimi Hendrix in 1970, David Bowie, 2004, R.E.M in 2005, The Rolling Stones in 2007, The Police in 2008, Neil Young, 2009 and Jay-Z in 2010. Any act to headline this festival is certainly in great company and an alumni of that.
The first acts including headline acts have been announced and although there have been negative reactions on socials which is always expected as you can’t please everyone, I personally think it’s a great lineup!
Sting as the main headline of the Friday is an inspired choice, It’s STING! He’s a British music legend and the songs he can bring to this are incredible. If you saw his set from Sting played at Radio 2 in the Park this year it’s one to look forward to. Younger audiences may not appreciate it yet but they will look back and relish the fact they saw him live. Faithless are listed on the Friday as well and I assume they will close the evening off the same way the likes of Calvin Harris and David Guetta have in the past. It always feels better with a big live dance act to close.
Saturday is Paul Heaton, ‘brilliant’ enough said there. Then The Script, followed by headliners The Sterephonics. The Script are a great band and I’m sure they will deliver a great set that will sit perfectly with the audience. Then, anyone who has seen The Stereophonics live will know what to expect and if they haven’t they are in for a proper treat. An exceptional live band that I will never get enough of seeing perform. Kelly Jones live is just as he is on recordings plus 10!
Sunday is Justin Timberlake with Teddy Swims, Texas and Olly Nurse throughout the day. There is something for everyone there. I’ve seen Texas a number of times and they are another great live act to see. I’ve not seen Teddy Swims or Olly Murs live but from what i’ve seen and know they will bring their A game, great entertainers. Justin Timberlake may divide opinion but again a performer who you can guarantee wont take this opportunity lightly and I think we are in for a spectacle.
Clean Bandit are not new to the festival and always draw a crowd as will Example and adding James who are festival royalty is again an superb addition. Alison Moyet and Dean Lewis, whats not to like and i’ve seen both The Lathums and Lottery Winners at festivals this year and they will certainly be on my list again to see.
Book your tickets as this is building up to be another year not to miss, a great festival continuing it’s year on year tradition of booking great artists. The audience has changed over the years with increasing numbers of picnic blankets and fold out chairs to navigate as you approach the main stage but worth the obstacle course for the music.
