Reading and Leeds festivals 2014 Round Up

Photographer credit: Jen O'Neill

Reading and Leeds festivals 2014 Round Up

With the dust still settling over the sites of Reading and Leeds, the buzz of three amazing days will live on for months to come. The good news is that Festival goers can already plan ahead with the first Weekend and Early Bird tickets for 2015 now on sale for a limited period at 2014 prices! 

Tickets can be purchased here 

With a homecoming headline show for Arctic Monkeys, who closed Leeds Main Stage in triumphant fashion on Sunday night and played on Saturday in Reading, the rapturous return of Blink 182 with a career spanning set, Queens Of The Stone Age and Paramore’s co-headline slots plus hundreds of top performances from artists, bands, comedians and DJs, Reading & Leeds fans certainly enjoyed a weekend to remember.

In a first for the Festivals Queens Of The Stone Age headlined the coveted Friday night bill at Reading proving they are the consummate rock band with their hit-laden show whilst Paramore headlined Saturday night at Leeds with Hayley Williams leading their enthralling set and at one point bringing her sister on stage for the momentous occasion. With light displays, fireworks and confetti explosions a-plenty, these were two of the best-received headliners of recent years.

Headliners Arctic Monkeys graced the Reading Main Stage on Saturday and Leeds on Sunday where the northern rockers brought their epic AM tour to a fitting end with Alex wearing the white rose of Yorkshire with pride. Accomplished professionals, from the first note to the last, they had the audience in the palm of their hands.  

Blink 182’s performance delivered twenty years of anthems with punchy measures of wit and pop-punk. Spanning a back catalougue of hits including ‘I Miss You’, ‘What’s My Age Again?’ and ‘All The Small Things’ which recived the biggest cheer of the night.

From his debut on the Leeds Festival Republic Stage in 2012, Jake Bugg brought his Reading and Leeds success story to a career defining spot on the Main Stage. The Nottingham based singer songwriter whipped thousands of fans into a sing along frenzy with opener ‘There’s A Beast And We All Feed It’ plus his stomping hits including ‘Trouble Town’ and ‘Lightning Bolt’.

Macklemore and Ryan Lewis put on a hugely entertaining show with fireworks, smoke and pyros. The duo’s set boomed with tracks off their Grammy Award winning album bringing tonnes of fun and at Reading there were not one, but two renditions of ‘Can’t Hold Us’ which the fans lapped up.

The Relentless Stage returned to Leeds Festival kicking off proceedings on Thursday night along the tree-lined avenue. Zane Lowe, DJ Fresh and Klaxons were just some of the DJs to bring the noise and get the party started. The infamous Picadilly Party, this year in partnership with XFM, continued to keep its reputation as one of the best late night parties Leeds Festival has to offer.

It was the summer of secret sets at Reading this year. On the Friday morning Jamie T announced his upcoming evening performance via Twitter. The London troubadour rocked up to the Festival Republic stage to give an explosive performance and delighted the fans with new material including ‘Don’t You Find’. Other secret gigs that pulled in eager fans were Jake Bugg (Saturday) and You Me At Six (Sunday), who both showed up to play stripped back 30-minute sets at the BBC Introducing Stage.

Now each in their second year, the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage and the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage were full to the brim with Festival goers. The BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage saw stand out sets from Netsky, Annie Mac, Pendulum and Flume, who had flown in from Australia. Klaxons were a huge draw receiving raputorus cheers for previous material including ‘Atlantis to Interzone’ as much as they did for new tracks such as ‘There Is No Other Time’. Fans couldn’t get enough of the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage which played host to headliners Giggs, Pusha T andDanny Brown/Joey Bada$$ who topped a supporting lineup to rival any other.

Once again The Alternative Stage at Reading & Leeds brought the best in comedy and spoken word to the Festivals. The lineup was topped by favourites Bill Bailey and Simon Amstell who both commanded huge audiences, showing the appetite for comedy is stronger than ever. Kate Tempest treated fans to a delightfully infectious show whilst People Just Do Nothing proved their epic TV sketches easily translate to a festival audience live on stage. Not only that but with the silent disco and Transgressive hosting the likes of Kelis, Gengahr and The Two Bears at Leeds as well as DJ sets from Frank Turner, Huw Stephens and Jen Long at Reading, the Alternative Stage was truly one of the most vibrant areas of the festival.

With so much going on across the weekend there was never a dull moment, highlights from the Festivals include Parma Violets and Band Of Skulls smashing the Festival Republic Stage; incredible sets from Gerard Way whose show was a UK Festival first, Disclosure, Bombay Bicycle Club, Royal Blood, Brody Dalleand SBTRKT who was joined by Vampire Weekend’s Ezra Koeing for ‘New Dorp New York’ on the NME/Radio1 Stage.

The all new Pit Stage hosted by Daniel P Carter was buzzing with Of Mice And Men being the standout act of the weekend, and Jimmy Eat World and Gorgol Bordello both blew audiences away with their headline slots.

The BBC Radio1 Signing Tent had fans arriving in their hundreds to meet their idols. Over 20 bands from the line-up took time out across the weekend to meet the queues of people. Particular highlights from Leeds included Gerard Way and The 1975, whilst over 300 fans queued at Reading to meet Of Mice And Men.

Managing Director Melvin Benn reflects on the weekend:

“Without a doubt, my highlights this year were all four headliners and I’d like to thank Queens Of The Stone Age, Paramore, Arctic Monkeys and Blink 182 for putting on absolutely incredible shows. I really enjoyed Imagine Dragons too, their set on the main stage blew me away. Across the weekend I’ve witnessed 200,000 music fans having a ball, what a fantastic year for our beloved Festivals. I would also like to thank our sponsors and media partners for their continued support. 2014 is going to be a tough one to beat but one special headliner for 2015 is confirmed, now the work continues to confirm another mind blowing line-up for the fans next year.”

BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 1Xtra and BBC3 broadcasted from the Festival, allowing fans without tickets the chance to enjoy some of the incredible artists playing across the weekend. To catch up on the coverage from the weekend head here (www.bbc.co.uk/events/e65q2m)

The following videos can be used for press:

Lucius - Go Home 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSadParC5CI&list=PLwKN245EGfqYL5vAajab0TeI2I6Yon8mW

You Me At Six - Football & Shove Ha-Penny 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhvJbNyKV4s&list=PLwKN245EGfqYL5vAajab0TeI2I6Yon8mW

Gogol Bordello - My Campanjera

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzNACz4ZTWY&list=PLwKN245EGfqYL5vAajab0TeI2I6Yon8mW

Papa Roach - Uncompetitive Darts 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l75oLE10W-4&list=PLwKN245EGfqYL5vAajab0TeI2I6Yon8mW

Kate Tempest – Happy End 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKWA2pFYVAI&list=PLwKN245EGfqYL5vAajab0TeI2I6Yon8mW

Twin Atlantic - Nasty Darts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ob4y3rbplg&list=PLwKN245EGfqYL5vAajab0TeI2I6Yon8mW

Reading & Leeds festival Announce BBC Introducing Stage For 2014

Reading and Leeds festival Announce BBC Introducing Stage For 2014

With less than a month to go until the gates open, the countdown is now well and truly on for Reading and Leeds 2014. Returning this year will be the one stop home of the best in up and coming talent, the BBC Introducing Stage. With BBC Introducing forever championing the finest in new music from the UK and beyond, the stage is part of BBC Introducing’s commitment to offering the best new artists unrivalled opportunities to be seen and heard. As a powerful launching platform for emerging talent, the stage has previously been home to this year’s Main Stage success story Jake Bugg as well as Catfish And The Bottlemen, Spector, Clock Opera and many more.

Topping the bill on Friday at Reading and Saturday at Leeds will be the extremely exciting BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra championed London soul singer Moko. Joining her will be alternative punk project The Bulletproof Bomb, Kent experimental rock group Broken Hands, the ambient neo-soul singing collective Lyves, 19-year-old folk-pop singer Rebecca Clements, the blues tinged and Tom Waits influenced sounds of John J Presley, the fiercely executed rap and powerfully emotive, catchy vocal melodies of Judge and The Jury, melancholic indie quintet Dancing Years, Buckinghamshire singer/songwriter Natasha North and fierce Scottish post hardcore band Shambles In A Husk.

Heading up the lineup on Saturday at Reading and Sunday at Leeds is the delicate vocal of Bombay Bicycle Club collaborator Rae Morris. The thrilling and hotly tipped London slacker rock trio Happyness will join her alongside York band Hello Operator, ex-General Fiasco brothers Owen and Enda Strathern’s new band Oh Volcano, three piece Leicester music makers Juniors, upcoming songwriter and Enigma Dubz collaborator Lippi, the melodious pop of Liverpool’s Guardian championed trio All We Are, France formed Aussie and Brit four piece indie rockers Sunset Sons and the horror-influenced skate-punk of Cambridge four piece Bloody Knees.

Sunday at Reading and Friday at Leeds sees the stage headlined by Scottish synth-pop trio and Island signees Prides who will come to the festival fresh from playing the Blink 182 Reading and Leeds warm-up shows at Brixton Academy. Joining them are unsigned indie rock band Crystal Seagulls, promising and ever hard working singer-songwriter Adam French, the live spectacle of Swansea based Cramps-esque punkers Heavy Petting Zoo, fiercely talented alternative songwriter Jack Garratt, Manchester’s future stars Man Made, Hull-based garage/punk band Mother, the BBC Radio 1Xtra playlisted talent of Esco Williams, the hauntingly beautiful music of Billie Marten and the raw.

This year saw the return of the prestigious Futuresound Competition, offering the winner the chance to perform on the Festival Republic Stage and five runners up the chance to open over on the BBC Introducing Stage. Leeds’ piano bashing, rock ‘n’ roll five piece Carnabells came in on top for what is sure to be the opportunity of a lifetime over on the Festival Republic Stage.

The Friday at Reading and Saturday at Leeds sees self-proclaimed ‘Black Keys meets Nancy Sinatra’ trio Crybabycry open the stage. Saturday at Reading and Sunday at Leeds bills the post punk and pop of Tabloids and Forever Cult’s slow burning grunge kicking off festivities. Sunday at Reading and Friday at Leeds, West Yorkshire alternative five piece Allusondrugs and the mod sounds of Leeds’ Vendettas will be opening the stage.

Centre Stage 2014 winners GirlsOnDrugs have also been added to the bill. A collaboration between a boy and girl, the band have deep bass synths and dream-laced chords enlivened by the beautiful, sultry, vocal talents of Kat McHugh, whose voice dances from pure expression to melancholic yearning.

The BBC Introducing Stage is truly the best place at the Festival to see the best emerging talent from across the UK. All this and a few very special, secret guests can be expected during what promises to be the biggest weekend in this summer’s festival calendar!

Jason Carter, Head of Live Music and Events, BBC Popular Music says: “BBC Introducing are delighted to be bringing our stage to the Festival for another year. Over the past few years it has been fantastic to see bands that have been completely unknown move up the stage at the Festival, right up to the main stage, this is another phenomenal new band line-up”.

Reading and Leeds Announce Alternative Stage And Transgressive Takeover

Reading and Leeds Announce Alternative Stage And Transgressive Takeover

With six weeks to go until the Festival gates open, the line-up for the Alternative Stage at Reading and Leeds has been announced. Reading tickets are sold out but those looking for a reason to buy Leeds tickets need look no further than this eye-opening announcement.

On top of the already huge line-up including headliners Queens Of The Stone Age, Paramore, Arctic Monkeys and Blink 182 comes a host of the best in comedy and alternative talent from the UK and beyond plus the annual after-hours takeover from Transgressive Records.

Heading up the comedy line-up is “comedy’s Mozart” and all-round polymath Bill Bailey. His unique mix of surreal and sharp wit with brilliant musical mash-ups makes him consistently rated as one of the funniest acts in the country. From Kraftwerk tributes to dubstep hymns, to releasing his own ‘In Metal’ album, music is an integral part of his stand-up sets, making Bill the perfect addition to the Reading and Leeds line-up

As a regular on TV favourite ‘Mock The Week’ and multiple Radio 4 shows, the deadpan stylings of British comedian Milton Jones are sure to prove an Alternative Stage highlight of the weekend. With sidesplitting one-liners aplenty, his Reading & Leeds performance is not to be missed. 

Also heading for Leeds will be Adam Buxton of BBC6 Music fame who will perform his BFI London show BUG. The show celebrates the wacky wonderfulness of the latest interesting, strange and otherwise noteworthy music videos and the accompanying You Tube comments.   

With a line-up also including parody wonderkids turned TV stars The Midnight Beast, comedy hip hop duo Rubberbandits, BBC3’s ‘Uncle’ star Nick Helm andThe Helmettes, comedian and ‘Eastenders’ regular Terry Alderton as well as ‘Stand Up For The Week’ regular Sara Pascoe and BBC 3 mockumentary stars People Just Do Nothing, the Alternative Stage is truly one of the must see parts of the festival.

Online sensations Jack and Dean also join the line-up alongside Canadian comedian, writer and actress Katherine Ryan, stand up, novelist and sports pundit Mark Watson, fresh-faced panel show regular Chris Ramsay, English standup and Edinburgh Fringe success Seann Walsh, fast rising UK star Daniel Sloss and ‘Show Me The Funny’ finalist Tiffany Stevenson.

The comedy bill expands even further with sharp witted and social funny man  Glenn Wool, London comedy circuit regular Carl Donnelly, comedy songwriter Phil Nichol, Radio 1’s Tom Deacon, breakthrough Australian comic Felicity Ward, ‘I’m A Celebrity…’ co-host Rob Beckett, Radio 4 Extra’s Romesh Ranganathan and award winning Welshman Matt Rees. BBC3 actor and comedian Jeff Leach, ‘Viral Tap’ presenter and funnyman Matt Richardson, stand-up comic and actor Tom Price, Irish comedian Jarlath Regan, the livewire and ever-energetic Eric Lampeart and Sunday Assembly co-founder Sanderson Jones who will ‘Kick The S#*! Out Of Your Morning’ with a show that contains ‘digital comedy’ including dutch clapping, venn diagrams and chat roulette.

The famous Alternative Stage is far more than just another festival comedy tent, as it bills some of the best in forward thinking and genuinely alternative spoken word to the stage. Fast gaining a name as one of the UK’s most vital talents, Kate Tempest will be bringing her vitriolic and socially conscious fusion of music, spoken word and hip-hop to the festival performing tracks from her album ‘Everybody Dance’. Alongside Tempest will be the equally forward thinking and ever-groundbreaking Beardyman whose awe-inspiring beat boxing and live looping skills make him an act truly like no other. Joining them will be the dubstep-influenced expert London beat boxer Reeps One as well as the ever thoughtful, spoken word poetry of Wonder Woman Hollie McNish.

On top of this, Transgressive’s annual takeover brings together another hotly anticipated late-night line-up to Reading and Leeds. The independent label is celebrating their 10th anniversary with a specially curated bill that is their biggest yet.

Hi-jacking the Saturday and Sunday nights in Leeds, the stage will run from 9.30pm until late, and Sunday features an exclusive set from multi-million-selling, global pop megastar Kelis. From Brit Awards through to NME Awards and with huge hits including ‘Milkshake’ and upcoming single ‘Friday Fish Fry’ in her arsenal, Kelis’ set is sure to bring the house down.

Having just finished a stomping 12 week residency at XOYO, modern house pioneers the 2 Bears composed of Joe Goddard (of electronic band Hot Chip) and Raf Rundell join the line-up alongside electronic maestro Star Slinger, the massively tipped Gengahr,  garage, house and R&B influenced BLONDE plus FAMY and the Transgressive and Bless teams. Live visuals will be provided throughout the night with more surprise appearances guaranteed on the nights themselves.

Transgressive will be taking over Friday night in Reading bringing Dj-ing talent to the Silent Arena courtesy of BBC Radio 1's Huw Stephens and Jen Long, alongside Transgressive Soundsystem residents.

Toby L, co-founder of Transgressive comments: 

"Reading and Leeds is the greatest party of the year, and our annual takeover of the Alternative Stage has seen some of my favourite moments. In past years we have had everyone from Disclosure, SBTRKT, London Grammar, Warpaint, Foals, Metronomy, Johnny Flynn, to Laura Marling, Jon Hopkins, Two Door Cinema Club, Pulled Apart by Horses and Fuck Buttons come and play for us, often providing some of their earliest or first ever festival shows.” 

"This year I'm as excited about the brilliant, brand new bands such as FAMY and Gengahr as I am Kelis, who we're completely honoured will come and join us for an exclusive weekend closing set in Leeds. Indeed, bring it on."

All of this sits alongside parties from Rebel Bingo, Buttoned Down Disco, Disco Shed and an extra special Frank Turner DJ set for Propaganda.

Saturday Day Tickets For Reading Festival Now Sold Out

With just 10 weeks to go until the gates open for Reading and Leeds 2014, Saturday Day Tickets for Reading Festival are now sold out!

This follows the earlier announcement that all Early Entry tickets for Reading are sold out. There are now only limited Friday, Sunday and Weekend tickets left.

Festival fans lucky enough to have secured a ticket to Reading for Saturday 23rd August will see a headline performance from global superstars Arctic Monkeys, who return to the Festival following their successes at the BRIT and NME Awards this year, where they came home with a haul of accolades including ‘Best Live Band’.

Speaking to NME about Reading and Leeds on the announcement of their headline set earlier this year, Matt Helders said: “We’ve got a lot of history with the Festival. It’s the first festival I ever went to – we all went together as kids, with Nick as well. We were 15 or 16 and it was a big deal going to a festival like that on your own”.

The band top an incredible bill of acts at Reading on Saturday 23rd August, which also features performances from the incredible Jake Bugg, Bombay Bicycle Club, Pendulum (DJ set) and Nero live, who will be closing the NME / BBC Radio 1 Stage. The day also sees Of Mice & Men take to the stage in the newly-named The Pit for their debut performance at the Festival, with Band of Skulls, Pusha T, the MOBO award-winning Krept and Konan and many, many more set to entertain the Festival audience.

Fans of these bands need to act fast to secure the remaining Weekend tickets available for Reading Festival, and can still purchase day tickets for the same incredible line-up on Sunday 24th August at Leeds Festival, where Early Entry, Day and Weekend tickets are currently available.

Festival goers are urged to buy their tickets from official ticket agents as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

TICKET INFORMATION

Weekend tickets £205.00 plus £8.00 booking fee ● Day tickets Friday, Saturday (Leeds only remaining), Sunday £92.50 plus £7.00 booking fee ● Early entry permits (Leeds only remaining) £15.00 ● Campervan permits £60.00 ● Lockers £16.00  ● Reading car parking £5.00 ● Weekend ticket prices include camping

Online/Telephone - Tickets are strictly limited to a maximum of four per person/address/payment card for those booking by telephone or online. Credit Card line: 0871 231 0821 Or online at: www.festivalrepublic.com  www.readingfestival.com  www.leedsfestival.com or See Tickets

In Person - Reading tickets can be bought at face value, in person when paid for in cash at outlets including the Reading Arts and Venues Box Office, The Hexagon. Leeds tickets can be bought at face value, in person when paid for in cash at outlets including Leeds Visitor Centre.  

Please note that picture ID/proof of address will be required at the time of booking. Tickets are subject to availability. Limit of two per household/person for personal callers. For a full list of national outlets please visit: here for Reading and here for Leeds

Children 12 and under are admitted free but MUST be accompanied by a ticket holding adult. Please note there is no separate children's area at this event.

50 incredible new names revealed for Reading and Leeds Festivals 2014

Reading and Leeds Festivals have announced another 50 amazing additions across the stages set to join the FOUR Festival headliners Queens Of The Stone Age, Paramore, Arctic Monkeys and Blink-182 for 2014. With just 12 weeks to go until the gates open for everyone, this year looks set to be the strongest yet with the best of UK and world talent across rock, indie, dance, alternative, grime and hip-hop. Reading and Leeds Festivals are the best way to spend your August Bank Holiday weekend!

Over on the NME/Radio 1 Stage headliners Disclosure, Courteeners and Bombay Bicycle Club are joined by ex-My Chemical Romance front man and previous festival headliner Gerard Way in his first ever solo UK show, hip-hop heavyweight and Kendrick Lamar collaborator Schoolboy Q and the soulful vocal and cutting rap delivery of Maverick Sabre. Also playing will be Aussie thrash-pop duo DZ Deathrays and emotive screamo titans La Dispute.

Reading and Leeds have a burgeoning reputation for bringing the best in electronic music and cutting edge dance to the Festival and the additions of the incredible Sigma, Indiana, RÜFÜS, Panama, Kove, MØ, Lxury and Billion prove that this trend will continue.

Punk and rock have a strong heritage at Reading and Leeds and last year’s addition of a rock day added to the Lock Up Stage acknowledged that. Now announced alongside incredible headliners Jimmy Eat World, Gogol Bordello and Of Mice and Men are We Came As Romans, Crosses, Muncie Girls, Brutality Will Prevail, Lesser Key, The HELL, Beasts, Masked Intruder, Emily’s Army and Vales.

Providing a place to see upcoming acts alongside some real heavy hitters, the Festival Republic Stage is looking as strong as ever. Headlined by Palma Violets, Band Of Skulls and Augustines, now King Charles, Southern, We Are Scientists, The Amazing Snakeheads, American Authors, Little Matador, The Minutes, Leaders Of Men, The Sunshine Underground, The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart, Sivu, Drowners, Lucius and Saint Raymond have all joined the line-up.

Added as a new stage in 2013, this year sees the return of the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage. Dedicated to all things hip-hop, urban and grime, and already boasting the likes of Giggs, Pusha T, Danny Brown and Joey Bada$$, the stage is joined by MistaJam, Raleigh Ritchie, Dirty Dike, Edward Scissortongue, Dominique Young Unique, Tempa T, Little Simz, Newham Generals, Adian Coker, Kwabs, Elli Ingram, Hawk House and My Nu Leng alongside the other previously announced names.

With the line-up continuing to grow, Reading and Leeds Festivals are once again an essential stop for music fans this summer.

A-Z of Artists announced so far for Reading and Leeds Festivals 2014

Queens Of The Stone Age and Paramore to headline Reading + Leeds Festivals

Queens Of The Stone Age and Paramore to headline Reading + Leeds Festivals

Queens Of The Stone Age and Paramore have been announced as the third and fourth headliners at this year's Reading + Leeds Festivals.

2014 is the first year the festival double will boast four headline performances, with QOTSA and Paramore sharing a co-headline slot on Friday in Reading and on Saturday in Leeds. It will be the only 2014 UK festival performance for Paramore. They join Arctic Monkeys and Blink 182 at the top of the bill.

The new additions don't stop there, however, with a host of further names added to the line-up of Reading and Leeds 2014. The new names are: Vampire Weekend, Macklemore + Ryan Lewis, Imagine Dragons, Deaf Havana, Foster The People, Bombay Bicycle Club, Chvrches, Clean Bandit, Jungle, Flume, Pendulum, A Day To Remember, Basement, Ben Pearce, Bondax, Boys Noize, Breach, Cage The Elephant, Circa Waves, Danny Brown, David Rodigan MBE, Die Antwoord, Don Broco, Drenge, Eagulls, Enter Shikari, Giggs, Gorgon City, Hacktivist, Jacob Plant, Jimmy Eat World, Joey Bada$$, Klaxons, letlive, Lizzo, Lower Than Atlantis, Marmozets, Neck Deep, Nero, Peace, Sleeping With Sirens, Temples, The Fat White Family, The Hives, The Neighbourhood, Vic Mensa and Wold Alice.

Speaking of their appearance at the festival, rising UK rockers Don Broco said in a statement: "R&L is the absolute highlight of our summer and we are thrilled to be back again this year to tear up the Radio 1/NME tent. We've got a rich history with the festival, whether volunteering at it, going as punters or playing it, we always look forward to coming back and having a blast."

Tickets are strictly limited to a maximum of four per person/address/payment card for those booking by telephone or online. Credit Card line: 0871 231 0821

Or online at: www.festivalrepublic.com  www.readingfestival.com  www.leedsfestival.com or See Tickets

Reading and Leeds Festival invite you to rename The Rock Stage

Following the success of a dedicated stage offering rock in the form of the best in metal, punk and hardcore at both Festival sites last year, in 2014 this stage will be curated by Daniel P Carter. Host of the BBC Radio 1 Rock Show, he was born and raised in Reading and is a long-time fan and supporter of the Festivals. Dan is a natural choice to curate this stage, having been to Reading and Leeds countless times, headlining what was the Concrete Jungle in 2004 with A, and playing the Lock Up Stage with Hexes in 2008.

Dan comments: “To be curating a stage at Reading and Leeds is so awesome. As someone that was born in Reading, and have been going to the festival since I was a kid, I thought playing the festival was a good as it could get. Turns out I was wrong! I'm really looking forward to putting together a bill of bands that I think are ace and are going to make for a heaving packed tent on each day. We started with Of Mice & Men and went from there. Stoked!”

Reading and Leeds Festivals are already shaping up to be the best yet and in the spirit of keeping things fresh, for the first time ever fans are invited to get involved in the naming of this stage. Dan has suggested ‘The Riff Haus’, but do you think you can do better? Make sure you have your say and be in with the chance to become a part of Reading and Leeds’ history by putting forward the winning suggestion! Lucky fans who get their stage names shortlisted will receive an upgrade for them and a friend from standard to guest tickets. If their idea goes on to win the public vote then the ticket holder and a friend will also get amazing side of stage access to their newly named stage!  

From today until midnight on Tuesday 28th January, anyone can put a name forward through the Reading and Leeds websites. A shortlist of suggestions will be selected in collaboration with stage curator Daniel P Carter on Wednesday, at which point fans can get voting for their favourite new name through the websites. The chosen name will be announced on Friday 31st January on the Reading and Leeds Facebook, Twitter and websites.

With Of Mice and Men already announced, Reading and Leeds can reveal that they will headline the stage at this year’s Festivals, their exclusive festival performance in England & Wales is not to be missed following their sold out UK tour. It seems only fair that the headliners have a say in the name of the stage so have put their own suggestion into the mix – ‘The Hyphy Stage’. The band will also take over the official Reading and Leeds Twitter account on Wednesday 29th January between 8pm-8.30pm to answer any fan questions, so make sure you’re ready.

The award-winning Reading and Leeds are the natural home for music lovers seeking the best acts, with the best atmosphere, surrounded by like-minded fans. The Festivals have already announced Main Stage headliners Blink-182 in their only UK show, and other amazing names playing across the weekend include Jake Bugg, Disclosure, Metronomy, Of Mice and Men, Wilkinson and I Am Legion. These are just the first of hundreds of exciting bands set to play, with plenty more to be announced soon. Keep your eyes and ears open for further announcements across the next few months.

Reading and Leeds Festivals Announce First Headliner And Further Acts For 2014

22ND – 24TH AUGUST 2014, BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Reading and Leeds Festivals announce BLINK-182 as a Main Stage headliner!

JAKE BUGG, DISCLOSURE, METRONOMY, OF MICE and MEN, WILKINSON and I AM LEGION the first of hundreds of exciting bands set to appear! £50 DEPOSIT scheme

2014 tickets on sale at 2013 prices until January

With amazing memories of this summer still fresh, Reading and Leeds Festivals are excited to reveal that the first Main Stage headliner for the 2014 events will be the legendary Blink-182 in their only UK show! Joining them will be Jake Bugg, Disclosure, Metronomy, Of Mice and Men, Wilkinson and I Am Legion, the first amazing names set to appear across the Festivals for an unforgettable August Bank Holiday Weekend. The award-winning Reading & Leeds are the natural home for music lovers seeking the best acts, with the best atmosphere, surrounded by like-minded fans.

Festival boss Melvin Benn comments:

“2013 was a year of exciting additions for Reading & Leeds Festivals, making them bigger and better than ever. With extra stages and genres at both sites, there was a new diversity for all our fans to enjoy. However the core essence of the festival hasn’t changed and I think the line-up for next year will most certainly reflect that.  I know our fans will be delighted to welcome back our first headliners, Blink-182, with what promises to be an amazing show, as well as the brilliant Jake Bugg stepping up to the Main Stage. I can’t wait to reveal the rest of our incredible line-up, so watch this space!”

Firm fan favourites, Blink-182 first played Reading & Leeds in 1999 and blew the Main Stage sky-high when they headlined in 2010. Mark, Tom and Travis return in 2014 to headline the Main Stage with their incendiary punk-pop anthems and you can be sure they’ll perform a set laden with hits such as ‘All The Small Things’, ‘Dammit’ and much more. The band will also be giving fans a debut airing of the much-anticipated forthcoming seventh studio album which will be released next summer, the first new material since their self-released EP in 2012, which featured ‘Dogs Eating Dogs’ and ‘Disaster.’ A band that never fails to deliver, this is a booking that will bring a smile to every ardent Reading and Leeds fan and will be the band’s only UK shows of 2014.

Mark Hoppus adds:

"I’m stoked to play Reading & Leeds 2014.  It’s our fourth time playing the festivals, and we’re very honoured.  The new year will see us in the studio preparing new music, getting ready to rock the fine people of the UK.  Prepare for the fury."

Jake Bugg is one of the biggest success stories of Reading and Leeds Festivals in recent years. Even before he released his first album he’d already made his debut on the Festival Republic Stage in 2012. Returning to the Festivals in 2013, having travelled the world and received numerous accolades, Jake moved further up the bill, and with a Number One debut album under his belt, drew huge crowds to enjoy a hit laden set. Now following the release of his brilliant second album 'Shangri La', produced by the legendary Rick Rubin, we can announce that Jake will make another significant step up this year, taking his deserved place on the Main Stage. 

Commenting on his appearance Jake said:

"Reading and Leeds have become a bit of a regular feature of my summers lately, so it's amazing to be asked back again. I was just kind of starting out the first time I played and it was a really important gig for me. Playing this year was fun and seemed like lots more people knew the songs; it was great hearing everyone singing the words back at me. I'm sure playing on the Main Stage will be a different experience again, so it's exciting. I've got my new album out so there's plenty of time for people to learn the words. It should be pretty special."

Often an artist like Jake Bugg comes along, who is so relevant and whose music has created such a buzz that fans demand their return to the Festivals; it is only right that Reading & Leeds provide the platform to see these artists excel. Another great example of this is Disclosure, the most successful British dance act in a generation, who turned the genre on its head in 2013 and opened the door for a host of underground dance acts to flood the mainstream.  Throughout the year Disclosure soared to the top of the charts with their debut album ‘Settle’ and sold out venues across the world. Their set at last year’s Reading and Leeds was one of the stand out moments of the Festivals and the brothers return in 2014 with an arsenal of hit singles and a fearsome live reputation, this will be a headline performance in a packed arena.

Quintessentially English, modern pop act, Metronomy are one of the country’s most compelling live acts and make a welcome return to Reading and Leeds. New track 'I'm Aquarius' was launched by Zane Lowe as his Hottest Record In The World, had 120,000 SoundCloud plays in a matter of hours and went straight to Number One on Hype Machine.  There is a new album ‘Love Letters’, recorded at the legendary Toe Rag studios, due in March 2014 and it promises to translate brilliantly to the live show. 

Reading and Leeds introduced the exclusively rock element as an extension of the Lock Up Stage for the first time in 2013, providing a dedicated destination for the Festivals’ legions of rock and metal fans.  Featuring memorable sets from Shikari Sound System, Funeral For A Friend and more, this was an extremely popular addition. Now for 2014 Reading and Leeds welcome Southern Californian metalcore quintet, Of Mice & Men. The band release their eagerly anticipated third album ‘Restoring Force’ in January 2014 via Rise Records, the follow up to breakthrough album 'The Flood'. Having received nothing but adulation across the rock media, and instantly selling out London’s Koko, these achievements are testament to where this band are going, and where they’re going is Reading and Leeds! Their exclusive festival performances in England & Wales will be ones not to miss.

2013 saw a three day stage for all things electronic headlined by Magnetic Man, Sub Focus and Knife Party, proving there is a huge thirst for dance amongst the Reading and Leeds faithful. Just confirmed for 2014 is Mark ‘Wilkinson’, now a household name thanks to the massive hit, and dance chart Number One ‘Afterglow’, taken from his debut longplayer ‘Lazers Not Included’. He’s managed to retain all his credibility thanks to his masterful production talents and skills as a DJ. He won ‘Best Breakthrough Producer’ at the National DandB Awards, an accolade that is sure to be followed by many more.

All-new in 2013, an additional urban and hip-hop stage saw Wiley, Devlin and Wretch 32 heading up a cast of many of the Urban elite. This bass heavy stage was a great hit with fans and is guaranteed to be better than ever in 2014.  Combining grime, hip-hop, dubstep, drum and bass, and some stuff that’s yet to be defined, it’s safe to say that I Am Legion are in a league of their own. Their explosive self-titled collaborative album is the side project of Dutch record producers Noisia and Foreign Beggars rappers Metropolis and Orifice Vulgatron. This fresh and distinctive collective will bring a turbo-charged atmosphere with them to Reading and Leeds.

Bring Me The Horizon announce new single Can You Feel My Heart

Britain’s most exciting alternative rock band, Bring Me The Horizon, have announced that their new single to be taken from the critically acclaimed album, Sempiternal,  will be “Can You Feel My Heart.”  

They’re new video, shot in LA recently, can be viewed on VEVO here: http://tinyurl.com/lwr6zww

Sempiternal made an instant impression when it was released earlier this year.  Although leaking over a month in advance of its release date it charted #3 in the official charts here in the UK.   The record also continues to enjoy international success.  After charting #11 on the Billboard 200 in the US it still remains in the charts 18 weeks onwards.  The album also went straight in at #1 in Australia.

The 5-piece are currently one of the most in-demand rock bands around and their tour schedule replicates this.  Having just come back from the Warped Tour in the USA this summer, the band are now poised to play the main stage at Reading and Leeds Festival.  They will then be heading on the road once more in October to play an Australian headline slot and Loud Park in Japan before and extensive European tour in November and December.

Bring Me The Horizon are Oliver Sykes, Lee Malia, Matthew Kean, Matthew Nicholls and Jordan Fish. 

http://bringmethehorizon.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/bmthofficial
https://twitter.com/bmthofficial

Saturday Day Tickets For Reading Festival Now Sold Out

Summer is here and the countdown to Reading and Leeds Festivals 2013 is well underway! With less than 50 days to go until the gates open, Saturday Day tickets for Reading Festival have now sold out!

This follows the recent announcement that all of the Early Entry tickets to Reading Festival are also sold out.

Friday, Sunday and Weekend tickets are still available for Reading Festival and Early Entry, Day and Weekend tickets are still available for Leeds Festival. Festival Republic advise those without their tickets to ensure they purchase these as soon as possible from an authorised outlet to avoid disappointment. A list of authorised agents can be seen on www.readingandleedsfestivals.com

Excitement is building for Reading and Leeds, taking place between 23-25th of August, at Richfield Avenue in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds. Voted Best Festival at this year’s NME Awards, the August Bank Holiday Weekend will feature over 200 artists, including exclusive UK performances from headliners Green Day, Eminem and Biffy Clyro. With more stages, more music and more fun to be had than ever before, this year is set to be the best yet. Grab your friends and we’ll see you there!


TICKET INFORMATION

Weekend tickets £202.50 plus applicable booking fees ● Day tickets (where available) Friday, Saturday, Sunday £90.00 plus applicable booking fees ● Early entry permits £15.00 ● Campervan permits £60.00 ● Lockers £16.00  ● Reading car parking £5.00 ● Weekend ticket prices include camping

Online/Telephone
Tickets are strictly limited to a maximum of four per person/address/payment card for those booking by telephone or online and two per person/address/payment card for personal callers to walk in stores. Credit Card line: 0871 231 0821

Or online at: www.festivalrepublic.com  www.readingfestival.com  ● www.leedsfestival.com http://reading.seetickets.com ● http://leeds.seetickets.com


In Person
Reading tickets can be bought at face value, in person when paid for in cash at the Reading Arts and Venues Box Office, The Hexagon. 

Leeds tickets can be bought at face value, in person when paid for in cash at Leeds Visitor Centre.

Please note that picture ID/proof of address will be required at the time of booking. Tickets are subject to availability. Limit of two per household/person for personal callers.

Children under 13 (12 and under) are admitted free but MUST be accompanied by a ticket holding adult. Please note there is no separate children's area at this event.

For a full list of national and regional outlets please visit: www.readingfestival.com / www.leedsfestival.com

Don Broco, Deaf Havana, Savages and over 30 more acts announced for Reading and Leeds

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

The Pretty Reckless are fronted by lead singer Taylor Momsen who brings equal measures of seething rage and tempered vulnerability to this New York band’s sound. They have been steadily garnering critical acclaim, have supported Marilyn Manson and Evanescence and are a welcome addition to the Main Stage bill.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Four-piece Bedford alternative rock band, and iTunes’ ‘Best New Rock Artist’ of 2012, Don Broco bring their infamously raucous rough-edged riffs to the Main Stage. The band have been gaining momentum in the mainstream as a rock band to watch, and continuing on from their success at Radio 1 they are making a mark on the British rock scene and beyond. Following their thrilling Festival Republic Stage performance at Reading & Leeds last year, they step up to Main Stage for what will no doubt be an insane performance.

NME/RADIO 1 LINE-UP GROWS WITH NEW ADDITIONS

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

Night Engine’s take on glam anthems has drawn comparisons to dance-era Bowie, INXS, Kane Gang and Power Station, and indeed they do sound vintage, but this London four-piece bring an infectious modernity to proceedings making them one of the most talked about bands of the past six months.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

Darwin Deez is to bring his brilliantly entertaining live show to Reading & Leeds’ NME/Radio stage in support of his new album, ‘Songs For Imaginative People’. Don’t miss your chance to witness a rare insight into everything an indie pop star should be.

Also joining will be alternative rock band from Norfolk Deaf Havana, renowned for their soaring melodies and candid lyrics. The band’s success continues to grow and with their highly anticipated new album 'Old Souls’ due out in September this year, be sure to catch them before they get even bigger.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Irish folk band Villagers will be bringing their icy melodies and eerie synth-laden indie-folk to Reading and Leeds this year. Since their debut album was shortlisted for a ‘Mercury Music Prize’ in 2010, they have been gaining momentum and their most recent album, ‘Awayland’, released earlier in the year is a thrilling follow-up.

Californian surf-rockers Wavves are bona fide staples on the rock scene thanks to the critical success of their self-titled debut album, which whetted the appetites of critics and fans alike. They have since gone on to play sell-out shows and collaborate with artists such as Big Boi, all the while building on their thrilling live-show energy.

BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE EXPANDS

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

Alvin Risk is signed to Skrillex’s OWSLA label and is rapidly gaining notoriety for his dark and aggressive dubstep. Slow beats build into grimey climaxes with stadium sized, ethereal choruses, just what you’d expect from Skrillex’s protégé.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

London four-piece Post War Years bring their brand of polished synth-pop to the expanded three day Dance Stage. With comparisons to both New Order and LCD Soundsystem, Post War Years offer up a fresh take on dance music simultaneously referencing the past, whilst pushing boundaries.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Electronic music duo Alexander Odden and Michael Parsberg AKA Pegboard Nerds are best known for their evenly spaced electronica with plenty of synths. The overall melodic and bassy effect makes them key players in the EDM scene and Reading & Leeds welcome them to the Dance Stage.

MANY MORE BANDS FOR THE LOCK UP/ROCK STAGE

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

Hardcore connoisseurs Feed The Rhino will be playing the best of their rough, riff-heavy emphatic hardcore stylings for die-hard fans. The five-piece have been acclaimed by the likes of Metal Hammer and Kerrang! and are sure to raise the roof this summer.

Also on the Lock Up Stage is the Canadian four-piece The Creepshow who use horror films as a point of reference for much of their music, which is sure to thrill any slasher fanatics in the crowd. The band are notorious for their frenetically paced, high-energy shows, and will have the crowd singing along in unison.

Rising talent Rat Attack will be thrilling festival goers with their pop-punk indie stylings. The Exeter-based band have been championed by Radio 1’s Zane Lowe and a slew of underground music blogs.

Already established in the hardcore scene, British band Palm Reader offer up some of the best of the genre. Known for their punchy riffs and killer percussion teamed with emotive vocals, you can expect lots of power, energy and undoubtedly a spot of moshing.

Brighton-based band Gnarwolves have been gaining plaudits recently for their contagiously energetic performances. A huge summer awaits them, all topped off with their set on the Lock Up Stage.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

Manchester based five-piece Sonic Boom Six (SB6) expertly deliver politically motivated narratives about social justice and activism, combined with an eclectic blend of musical influences. From ska and reggae to punk and dubstep, they return to whip Reading & Leeds into a frenzy.

Rising punk band Off With Their Heads are known for their electrifyingly mid-tempo pop teamed with supersonically paced punk. The band’s most recent single ‘Epitaph’ has been gaining heat on underground rock blogs and their performance at Reading & Leeds is sure to put them on the map.

Guitarist, songwriter and singer Chuck Ragan has had an impressive career which has seen him release a live album, three solo albums and head up punk rock band Hot Water Music. He has since gone on to write a book and tour across Europe with his evolved folk-rock sound, and he will be bringing his array of musical experience to the Lock Up Stage this summer.

Ahead of their European summer tour, Anti Vigilante will be gracing the Lock Up Stage. Influenced heavily by ska, they merge hardcore sounds with saxophones and intensely heartfelt lyrics. Their tracks have been championed by the likes of Radio 1’s Mike Davies and they’ve played in the iconic Maida Vale studios, a variety of independent rock festivals, and now play the big ones!

Four-piece punk rockers Sharks are best known for their uncompromising brand of blue-collar punk, packed with songs focusing on rebellion and resistance. Influenced by The Clash, these boys from Leamington Spa are serving up the best in modern rock n’ roll and their show is sure to be a real treat.

Great Cynics are fresh from being touted as a one to watch at Brighton’s Great Escape festival, and performing a live session for Mike Davies’ Radio 1 Punk Show. With notes of folk, grunge and punk in their musical offerings, they are sure to offer something for everyone.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Legendary industrial-rock band Filter have spent 20 years contributing to the rock arsenal. From songs about Kurt Cobain, Tomb Raider, and Smashing Pumpkins, they write about contemporary culture, and their albums document the mood of modern youth over the past two decades.

Pioneers of the ‘djent’ genre, which refers to a dense, complex and very hardcore strain of heavy music, Hacktivist are nothing if not innovators. The five-piece incorporate pounding quick-fire grime-inspired rhymes over thunderous riffs, which makes for a unique sound that has earned them accolades from rock critics and fans alike. Check them out on the Rock Stage and make up your own mind.

Three-piece rock band The Virginmarys are adept at touring, with a career which has seen them support the likes of Skunk Anansie, Slash, Feeder and We Are Scientists. They promise an electrifying live performance this year as they turn up the amps and the energy.

American rock trio Beware Of Darkness take their inspiration from the likes of Led Zeppelin and the Black Keys and have supported huge bands including The Deftones since they formed in 2010. Their brooding rock songs from debut album ‘Orthodox’ will be captivating audiences this summer on The Lock Up Stage.

Portland based band Hawk Eyes cite a range of influences from garage rock and post punk to Brit-pop, all of which can all be heard in their music. With a thrilling live show, make sure you catch them on the Rock Stage as they ascend to the realms of the mainstream.

FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE WELCOMES NEW NAMES

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

LA based four-piece Papa are identified by big, raucous sounds that whip listeners into a frenzy. Their charismatic charm and catchy hooks will ensure a legion of fans at their feet at the Festival Republic Stage.

Also joining the bill are Charlie Boyer And The Voyeurs with their intoxicating blend of grinding guitars, rolling organs and frantic energy. The English five-piece are influenced by the music of 70’s New York, straddling avant-garde rock ‘n’ roll and big, sing-a-long tracks, this band is not to be missed.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

Influenced by Arthouse cinema and post punk, Savages have had a phenomenal year and show no intention of slowing down. Starting it with a nomination for the BBC ‘Sound of 2013’ poll, they have been widely regarded as one of the most thrilling live acts around by critics, thanks to their incredible energy and emotion on stage.

Formerly known as Dive, critics’ favourite DIIV are a New York based indie rock band who have a slew of accolades behind them. Their album ‘Oshin’ released last year featured on Pitchfork’s ‘Top 50 Albums Of 2012’ and their unique sonic influences include a mix of world music, krautrock and indie.

One foot in electro and one foot in folk, Dan Croll is adept at making catchy tunes supported by the likes of Radio 1 and BBC Radio 6 Music. Dan and his band join the Festival Republic Stage this year. Enjoy.

Alternative pop rockers Sons and Lovers are known for their catchy guitar melodies and strong lyrical stature. They will be bringing their gentle indie stylings to Reading and Leeds this year.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Critically acclaimed electronic music duo Mount Kimbie have made some of the most progressive electronic music over the last few years, and have featured in countless ‘Best Of’ lists. Their beautiful blend of ambient beats and well-produced instrumentalism has earned them the status as some of the best in the game, and they are sure to thrill the Festival Republic Stage audiences this year.

Frankie and The Heartstrings are back with the follow-up album ‘The Days Run Away’ to the much-loved 2008 debut ‘Hunger’. Bernard Butler is the producer this time around, and you can certainly feel his presence on the record. Always great live, it’s a welcome return for Sunderland’s finest.

Musical pairing In The Valley Below will be delivering hushed swirls of male and female vocals forged with dark tales of brooding riddles and romance. The band have received acclaim from NME and MTV, and this show should push them to the next level.

Also joining are Leeds rock ‘n’ rollers China Rats who have clearly been inspired by classic British rock and guitar bands. After being championed by Radio 1’s Huw Stevens and BBC 6 Music’s Tom Robinson, the band are paying homage to the 90’s indie scene while adding dimensions that make the sound their own.

Australian four-piece San Cisco offer up their brash and uncompromising indie to the festival this year. After steadily receiving acclaim from the likes of Radio 1, NME and a wealth of indie blogs, the boys from down under walk the line between soft rock and indie-pop and are sure to live up to the hype.

NEW CONFIRMATIONS FOR THE BBC RADIO 1XTRA STAGE

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

British rapper Itch brings his blend of UK rap and rock riffs to the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage this year. His angry and brash foray into the worlds of rock, rapping and social justice create a powerful performance that you won't forget in a hurry.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

Championed by Zane Lowe Chicago based Chance The Rapper has spent the last few years injecting a sense of freshness into the rap world with his thrilling take on hip-hop instrumentals, beats, and bars. His second mixtape ‘Acid Rap’ features heavy-hitters including Action Bronson, Black Hippy’s Ab-Soul and childish Gambino. Chance The Rapper has recently served up some unforgettable performances and is definitely one to watch at Reading and Leeds.

Reading and Leeds Festival announce Wretch 32 more for BBC 1Xtra Stage

With Wiley and Devlin already announced as headliners for the stage, Wretch 32 is revealed as the final headliner for the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage, plus may more names!

NEW NAMES FOR THE BBC RADIO 1XTRA STAGE

In a major UK festival first, Reading and Leeds will each have a dedicated BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage delivering the best of hip-hop and grime from the UK and farther afield, which will run across all three festival days and showcase the cream of urban artists and music on offer. This is one of the most important additions that Reading and Leeds have witnessed for a long time and Festival Republic are thrilled to announce more names for the stage.

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

Headlining the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage on this day will be UK grime artist Wiley. After an amazing year in 2012 scoring two UK Top 5 singles, including his first No. 1 with the summer smash ‘Heatwave’ and the more recent No. 3 ‘Can You Hear Me (Ayayaya)’ which featured Skepta, his set at Reading and Leeds will be one to get involved in.

A widely respected DJ and producer, Toddla T brings a full out live show to the stage. The Toddla T Sound features both elements of live performance and DJing with live vocalists, including Shola Ama, Serocee and MC DRS. Drawing upon his two albums to date, 'Skanky Skanky' and 'Watch Me Dance' and a heap of custom edits and refixes especially for the project, the show will also be augmented with the bespoke visuals of Sheffield designers, Peter and Paul. Add all these elements together and you have something really special on your hands.

He will be joined on the line-up by Grime heavyweight P Money, whose mix of hardcore grime and dubstep has made him a fixture at club nights and a festival staple. Following the launch of his self-released EP ‘Guns Bitches and Weed’ last year - which quickly became a web phenomenon - NY based rapper, singer and producer Left Boy joins the 1Xtra bill. Also performing is Stylo G, bringing his slick, vicious beats to Reading and Leeds and getting the festival audience skanking with a reggae-tinged masterclass.

The BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage also sees the impressive musical talents of Nathan Flutebox Lee and The Clinic, whose ability to simultaneously beatbox and play the flute has earned him a global following. Manchester-based musical collective Murkage return to Reading and Leeds and upcoming London MC Scrufizzer, whose supersonic speed-rhymes have earned him acclaim from Radio 1 DJs, MTV and The Guardian, also joins the stage.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

Already confirmed to join Wiley as a fellow headliner on the new BBC Radio 1Xtra stage is Devlin.  Dagenham-based rapper Devlin returns to the Festivals with his sideways social commentary and formidable flow. Having scored a Top 10 single with 'Rewind', he's leading the UK's next generation of rap stars.

Added to the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage is NY newcomer, Action Bronson, a rapper who has been gaining heat on rap forums, enjoying acclaim on music blogs and has just featured on XXL’s ‘Freshman Top 10’ list of upcoming rap talent this year.

Heralded as putting ‘road rap’ on the map, South London rapper Giggs will be returning to the festival armed with new tracks and an impressive following. He’s Peckham’s finest via Jamaica and leading the evolutionary charge of grime in 2013.

Mic Righteous is one of the hottest young stars of the UK hip-hop and grime scene. With over seven million YouTube hits and growing, his appearance at Reading & Leeds promises great things.

Also added to the bill is the presenter of flagship BBC Radio 1xtra Hip Hop show, renowned DJ and producer DJ Semtex. Expect the freshest tracks, plenty of first plays and a bouncing atmosphere when Semtex blows up at Reading & Leeds.

Winning ‘Best Newcomer’ and ‘Performance of the Year’ for his rap battles in Don’t Flop, Lunar C’s no-gimmicks approach has transferred perfectly into the live arena and his set at Reading and Leeds is the perfect place to see him live.

Also on the BBC Radio 1Xtra line-up are Manchester's alternative hip-hop faction Broke’N'£nglish, one of the most highly regarded names on the hip-hop scene due to their incendiary live performances and innovative production techniques, which combine electronica, funk, jazz, RandB and hip-hop. Fresh from supporting Devlin this week, self-described “soul with a bit of weird”, Etta Bond prepares to take on the biggest shows of her life at Reading and Leeds.


READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Reading and Leeds can now reveal Wretch 32 as the final headliner for the new BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage, following an amazing year for the London MC. After an arena tour supporting Example, he also became the face of some iconic brands at the London Olympics. With his major label debut album ‘Black and White’ amassing over a million sales, Wretch 32 is widely acknowledged by his peers as one of the pioneers of the UK grime scene; be sure to catch his first ever performance  at Reading and Leeds this summer.

Joining the bill is American lyricist Angel Haze who sees herself as more of a rock star than a rapper. That said she raps so ferociously, deftly and with real menace, that 'flow' would seem far too mellow a word to describe her delivery.

The BBC Radio 1Xtra stage also welcomes the first lady of female MCing, Ms Dymanite. The legendary Brit Award-winner and recipient of the 2002 ‘Mercury Music Prize’ has been thrilling crowds for over a decade and will be playing the best from her hits in a high energy performance.

Presenting the best rhythms from the UK to Trenchtown will be iconic 1Xtra DJ, David Rodigan MBE. Heralded as one of the masters of the sound system, his unrivalled vinyl collection and knowledge of reggae culture past and present will ensure that revellers will be enjoy the most thrilling reggae sounds from across the globe.

As well as trading in rap breakbeats and pop hooks, Mikill Pane seamlessly straddles guitar-based sounds, including punk, ska and reggae, making him a firm favourite and collaborator with the likes of Ed Sheeran and Example.

Ghostpoet's debut album 'Peanut Butter Blues and Melancholy Jam' was a worthy nominee for the 2011 ‘Mercury Music Prize’ and exposed his talent to an eager new audience. His hotly tipped second album is due out soon and promises to provide the perfect soundtrack to this summer’s sultry evenings.

Also joining the line-up is MC Context. Winner of the MTV ‘Brand New Unsigned’ competition in 2012, championed by the likes of Mistajam, Huw Stephens and Charlie Sloth, and now gearing up to support Devlin on his upcoming tour, Context's distinctive take on soulful drum n bass, dubstep and hip hop is sure to be well received by the festival crowd.

Despite growing up in the States and Jamaica, Knytro has always been obsessed with the knights, folklore and ancestry of England – hence the name. Claiming to be ‘so Hip-Hop it should be illegal’, he’s always on point and his legions of fans will relish the chance to see him grace the stage at Reading and Leeds. 


Other artists playing across the Festivals include the Main Stage UK festival exclusive headliners Green Day, Eminem, and Biffy Clyro, plus UK festival exclusive performances from Fall Out Boy, System Of A Down and Deftones. Skrillex, Major Lazer, Azealia Banks take to the NME/Radio 1 Stage and Flux Pavillion, Redlight and Night Works appear on the BBC Radio 1Dance Stage, plus many many more!

www.festivalrepublic.com  www.readingfestival.com   www.leedsfestival.com http://reading.seetickets.com ● http://leeds.seetickets.com