Glastonbury 2025: Five Emerging Artists Primed to Captivate

Glastonbury Festival, a cornerstone of the British summer and a global nexus for music and arts, is renowned for its headline acts. This year is no exception, boasting a lineup featuring veterans like Rod Stewart and rising stars such as Olivia Rodrigo. However, the true Glastonbury experience often lies in discovering the hidden gems – the emerging artists poised to become the next big thing. With the festival looming, we spotlight five acts set to make a significant impact at Worthy Farm.

Beyond the Headliners: Unearthing Glastonbury's Rising Stars

While speculation swirls around the numerous "TBA" slots and potential surprise appearances from established names like Haim or even the perpetually rumoured Daft Punk, seasoned Glastonbury attendees know that the festival's magic resides in the unexpected discoveries. This year's bill is brimming with fresh talent, spanning genres and hailing from diverse corners of the globe. These are the artists to catch before they ascend to mainstream recognition.

The Ones to Watch: A Curated Selection

Here are five artists who are ready to make their mark on Glastonbury 2025:

Alessi Rose: This Derby-born singer-songwriter opens The Other Stage on Saturday at 11:30 am. Rose, a recent English Literature graduate, blends confessional lyrics with electrifying vocals, creating a sound that resonates with fans of Taylor Swift and Gracie Abrams. Her rapid ascent, from playing intimate venues to opening for Dua Lipa, signals a pop queen on the cusp of major stardom. "It's nice to be let into that journey of having no connections to the music industry and kind of just, like, figuring it out," Rose says, highlighting her authentic and relatable approach. MRCY: Catch this British duo at the BBC Introducing tent on Friday at 4:30 pm. MRCY's Kojo Degraft-Johnson and Barney Lister craft sun-baked soul anthems that draw inspiration from the gritty 70s sounds of Isaac Hayes and Marvin Gaye. Their live shows are life-affirming celebrations, featuring up to seven musicians. Lister, an award-nominated writer/producer, emphasizes the timeless quality of soul music: "When the world's gone crazy, soul music is a good escape." Their music also addresses pressing social issues, making them a compelling and relevant act. Koven: Prepare for an electrifying drum and bass experience at the Lonely Hearts Club stage on Saturday at 11:00 pm. Koven's Katie Boyle is redefining the genre by seamlessly blending DJing with live vocals. Her custom-built DJ rack allows for smooth transitions, creating a high-energy atmosphere. After a challenging slot in 2022, Koven is ready to deliver a memorable set. Boyle adds a personal touch: "Bring along a picture of a happy dog," she jokes, revealing a quirky request on her rider. Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso: This Argentinian duo brings their irreverent Latin fusion to the West Holts stage on Friday at 1:00 pm. Their blend of trap, rock, underground electronica, and Latin jazz has earned them a devoted fanbase in Buenos Aires. A viral Tiny Desk concert catapulted them onto the global stage. "We knew the Tiny Desk concert would give us visibility, but never expected to impact our lives in the way it happened," they say. Despite the newfound attention, they remain committed to their raw and energetic sound. Gurriers: Don't miss this Dublin-based punk band at the Woodsies tent on Sunday at 12:30 pm. Gurriers channel a vein of cultural commentary with visceral songs about anger and disillusionment. Frontman Dan Hoff urges: "Come and see us. We're loud and abrasive, but you're gonna have a good time." Their music reflects the anxieties of a generation grappling with political and economic challenges. The band's scrappy, punk-driven sound is surprisingly danceable, thanks to a taut rhythm section inspired by disco and LCD Soundsystem.

The Glastonbury Effect: Launching Careers and Shaping Culture

Glastonbury has a long history of propelling emerging artists to stardom. From early performances by acts like Coldplay and Radiohead to more recent breakthroughs by artists like Billie Eilish, the festival provides a platform for showcasing talent to a massive and receptive audience. Dr. Sarah Jennings, a musicologist at the University of Bristol, notes, "Glastonbury acts as a cultural barometer, reflecting current trends and identifying future directions in music. The festival's curation often highlights artists who are pushing boundaries and challenging conventions."

Expert Insight: The Importance of Discovery

According to music industry analyst Mark Thompson, "In today's saturated music market, festivals like Glastonbury play a crucial role in artist discovery. The sheer volume of music available online makes it difficult for new acts to break through. Glastonbury offers a curated experience, allowing attendees to stumble upon artists they might otherwise never encounter. This organic discovery process can be incredibly powerful in building a fanbase and launching a career." He further adds, "The festival's reputation for championing independent and alternative music also attracts a discerning audience that is open to new sounds and experiences."

Embrace the Unexpected

As Glastonbury 2025 approaches, the focus will inevitably be on the headline acts and the established stars. However, the true spirit of the festival lies in embracing the unexpected and discovering the emerging artists who are poised to shape the future of music. Alessi Rose, MRCY, Koven, Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso, and Gurriers are just a few of the acts ready to make a lasting impression. So, venture beyond the main stages, explore the hidden corners of Worthy Farm, and prepare to be captivated by the next generation of musical talent.