Are you planning a music festival? Discover the top entertainers to elevate your event, drawing inspiration from iconic festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella, this post includes all manner of entertainers from mesmerising bands to electrifying DJs who will captivate festival audiences globally.
Who are the Best 20 Festival Headline Acts to Hire for 2024?
This exclusive selection of the best entertainers for festivals has been meticulously compiled from official feedback gathered at 153 premier music festivals between 2021 and 2024.
1. Craig David
Official Ranking – 9.9/10
Craig David, a renowned British singer-songwriter, is celebrated for his commercial success and genre-blending music. With his debut album "Born To Do It" selling over 7 million copies, he quickly became a leading UK garage artist. His chart-topping hits and notable collaborations with artists like Sting, Big Narstie, and Bastille solidify his appeal. Having performed at major events like BBC Radio 2 In The Park, Super Aurora Festival, and TS5 Festival, David remains a sought-after headliner for international festivals.
Set List:
- 7 Days
- Re-Rewind
- Walking Away
- Rendezvous
- Fill Me In
2. Scouting for Girls
Official Ranking – 9.9/10
Scouting for Girls, known for their chart-topping, multi-platinum debut album and hit singles like "This Ain’t a Love Song," have earned widespread commercial success and sold over two million records. Their lively performances and popular tracks make them a sought-after headliner for international festivals. They have performed at notable events such as Glastonbury, The Weekend Festival, and Live at the Park 2024, highlighting their status as one of Britain's most exciting Britpop bands.
Set List:
- She’s So Lovely
- This Ain’t A Love Song
- Heartbeat
- Elvis Ain’t Dead
- I Wish I Was James Bond
3. Ella Eyre
Official Ranking – 9.9/10
Ella Eyre is a sought-after headline act for international festivals due to her dynamic collaborations and solo success. Best known for her hit with Rudimental, "Waiting All Night," she has performed at Glastonbury, V Festival, and The Big Festival. Her notable achievements include winning a Brit Award, releasing successful singles like "If I Go," and collaborating on chart-toppers such as Sigma's "Changing." Her compelling performances and strong chart presence make her a compelling choice for major festival line ups.
Set List:
- Came Here For Love
- Waiting All Night
- If I Go
- Answerphone
- Just Got Paid
4. Ella Henderson
Official Ranking – 9.9/10
Ella Henderson is a sought-after headline performer for international festivals due to her powerful, emotive voice, flawless stage presence, and significant fan base. She gained nationwide fame on The X Factor in 2012 and achieved a UK Singles Chart number 1 with her debut single, "Ghost." Ella has performed at notable events, including Glastonbury, Isle of Wight Festival, and the V Festival, as well as a 38-date UK tour with Take That. Her modern soul and funk sound, combined with her engaging performances, make her an ideal choice for festivals and corporate events.
Set List:
- Ghost
- Crazy What Love Can Do
- Glow
- This Is Real
- Let’s Go Home Together
5. Mabel
Official Ranking – 9.8/10
Mabel is a headline performer for international festivals due to her meteoric rise in the pop music scene, exceptional vocal talent, and engaging stage presence. She has performed at prominent festivals like Reading/Leeds, Parklife, Boardmasters, and Glastonbury. Mabel's debut single, "Know Me Better," and subsequent hits such as "Finders Keepers" and "Fine Line" have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. Her experience supporting Harry Styles on tour further solidified her popularity and appeal as a leading festival act.
Set List:
- Don’t Call Me Up
- Finders Keepers
- Fine Line
- Mad Love
- Ring Ring
6. Rick Astley
Official Ranking – 9.8/10
Rick Astley, a pop music icon with 13 worldwide hit singles and a stellar career since 1985, is a sought-after headline act for international festivals like BBC Radio 2 in the Park, Glastonbury, and Rewind Festival. Known for his baritone voice and memorable hits like "Never Gonna Give You Up," Astley's transition to soul music and his global tours highlight his versatility and enduring appeal, making him a natural choice for major music events.
Set List:
- Never Gonna Give You Up
- Together Forever
- Take Me To Your Heart
- Cry For Help
- Whenever You Need Somebody
7. Rudimental
Official Ranking – 9.7/10
Rudimental, a renowned British drum and bass band formed in 2010, are sought after for international festivals due to their energetic and genre-blending performances. With chart-topping hits like "Feel the Love," they have headlined major festivals such as Glastonbury, Reading/Leeds, and Coachella. Their innovative style, combining jungle, soul, and electronica, along with collaborations with artists like Jess Glynne and Rita Ora, have earned them multiple awards and global acclaim, making them a top choice for festival headliners.
Set List:
- These Days
- Feel the Love
- Waiting all Night
- Sun Comes Up
- Something About You
8. Tom Grennan
Official Ranking – 9.7/10
Tom Grennan, acclaimed for his chart-topping albums and collaborations, is a sought-after performer for international festivals due to his widespread appeal and dynamic stage presence. Notable for hits like "Found What I've Been Looking For" and albums such as "Evering Road," Tom has headlined festivals like Tramlines and Sundown Festival. His versatility across genres, compelling music, and proven ability to connect with diverse audiences make him an ideal headline act for global events.
Set List:
- Little Bit of Love
- Let's Go Home Together
- Lionheart
- Found What I've Been Looking For
- By Your Side
9. Sophie Ellis Bextor
Official Ranking – 9.6/10
Sophie is hired as a headline act for international festivals due to her success as a solo artist, highlighted by her debut album "Read My Lips," which sold over 2 million copies and produced three top-three UK hits. She has performed at major festivals like Truck Festival, Brighton & Hove Pride, and Silverstone Festival. Sophie’s consistent release of successful albums, including "Shoot from the Hip" and "Trip the Light Fantastic," along with her television appearances, solidify her reputation as a dynamic performer.
Set List:
- Murder On The Dancefloor
- Ready For Your Love
- Can’t Fight This Feeling
- Not Giving Up On Love
- Heartbreak
10. Roman Kemp
Official Ranking – 9.5/10
Roman is a headline act at international festivals due to his celebrity lineage, charisma, and versatile talent. Born to famous parents, Martin Kemp and Shirlie Holliman, he carved his own path as a prominent DJ on Capital FM and later expanded into television presenting. His high-profile interviews, such as with Ed Sheeran, and appearances with celebrities like Justin Bieber, have bolstered his fame. Roman has performed at festivals like Festival on the Hills, showcasing his engaging persona and broad appeal.
11. Madness:
Official Ranking – 9.4/10
Madness is hired as a performer for international festivals as a headline act due to their enduring popularity and success in the music industry. They achieved significant success in the 1980s with 15 UK top ten singles, including hits like "One Step Beyond" and "Our House," and received an Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Song Collection. Their vibrant performances have made them a favourite at festivals like Jubilation and Tramlines, drawing large crowds and nostalgic fans.
Set List:
- Baggy Trousers
- Our House
- One Step Beyond
- My Girl
- It Must Be Love
12. Marvin Humes
Official Ranking – 9.4/10
Marvin Humes, a successful musician and TV presenter, is a sought-after performer for international festivals due to his illustrious career with JLS, solo DJing, and TV hosting. He has headlined events like the Capital Summertime Ball and performed at Swanfest and Dunstable's Party In the Park. With accolades including two BRIT Awards and a MOBO Award, Marvin's talent and star appeal make him an ideal choice to captivate and entertain large crowds as a DJ, host, or singer.
13. Lovely Laura & Ben Santiago
Official Ranking – 9.4/10
Lovely Laura and Ben Santiago are in high demand as headline performers for international festivals due to their unique saxophone and DJ combination. With over fifty million social media streams and a significant following in Ibiza, they have become iconic in the house music scene. Laura's saxophone mastery and Ben's prolific DJ career, featuring residencies at top venues like Amnesia and Café Mambo, make them stand out. They have performed at major festivals including Creamfields, Tomorrowland, and Ibiza Rocks, captivating audiences worldwide.
Set List:
- Angel (Thinking Of You)
- Just Want Your Body
- Feel Me
- Sax Jam 5
14. Miss America
Official Ranking – 9.4/10
Miss America, a high-energy tribute to Taylor Swift performed by Carrie Fern, is sought after for international festivals due to Carrie's exceptional talent and striking resemblance to Swift. Carrie's robust performing arts background and notable performances, such as on ITV's 'Starstruck' as Dua Lipa, highlight her versatility and skill. Miss America has captivated audiences at festivals, holiday parks, nightclubs, and hotels with vibrant, heartfelt performances, ensuring a memorable experience for Swifties.
Set List:
- Cruel Summer
- Style
- I Knew You Were Trouble
- Love Story
- Don’t Blame Me
15. RPJ Band
Official Ranking – 9.3/10
The RPJ Band, led by Rick Parfitt Junior, is a dynamic rock group known for turning events into unforgettable celebrations. Comprising top session musicians who've toured with global stars, their energetic performances make them a headline act at international festivals. They have graced prestigious corporate events for Santander, Virgin, and the Daily Mail, and entertained celebrities like Richard Hammond. Their impressive history and ability to energise any crowd ensure they are a top choice for festival organisers worldwide.
16. Ultimate Coldplay
Official Ranking – 9.3/10
Ultimate Coldplay is hired as a headline act for international festivals due to their perfect renditions of Coldplay hits, infectious passion, and authentic performances that convert non-fans into fans. They have performed at notable events such as the Summer Sound Music Festival and Leicester Food Festival. Their popularity surged post-Covid-19 with a national tour, and their frontman's likeness to Chris Martin further elevates their appeal. With extensive global experience, they are essential for any large festival line up.
Set List:
- Higher Power
- Adventure Of A Lifetime
- The Scientist
- Paradise
- Viva La Vida
17. Beverley Knight
Official Ranking – 9.2/10
Beverley Knight, a celebrated English soul singer, radio presenter, and musical theatre actress, is a sought-after headline act for international festivals due to her remarkable talent and extensive career. Known for hit singles like "Greatest Day" and "Shoulda Woulda Coulda," she has performed at major events including Radio 2 in the Park and Godiva Festival. Knight’s illustrious career, featuring collaborations with Prince and multiple awards, underscores her widespread acclaim and ability to draw diverse audiences.
Set List:
- Shoulda Woulda Coulda
- Keep This Fire Burning
- Made It Back
- Greatest Day
- Middle Of Love
18. Blue
Official Ranking – 9.2/10
Blue is hired as a performer for international festivals due to their 15 million record sales, chart-topping singles, and collaborations with legends like Elton John and Stevie Wonder. Known for their harmonies and genre versatility, they have a loyal global following. Blue has performed at notable events such as the Eurovision Song Contest and continue to entertain at various international venues and corporate events. Their long-standing reputation and musical prowess make them a compelling headline act for any festival.
Set List:
- All Rise
- Riders
- U Make Me Wanna
- Haven’t Found You Yet
- If You Come Back
19. Chris Moyles
Official Ranking – 9/10
Chris Moyles is hired as a performer for international festivals due to his extensive career as an engaging and versatile radio and television presenter, notably on Radio X and The Chris Moyles Show. His ability to captivate audiences with his dynamic personality makes him a sought-after headline act. Chris has performed at events like the Whitehaven Festival and the 90s Hangover Festival, where he curates nostalgic yet fresh musical experiences that resonate widely.
20. Madhen
Official Ranking – 8.9/10
Madhen is hired as a headline act for international festivals due to their 20 years of unwavering dedication and experience. Renowned for their dynamic musical mashups and innovative show, "Switch," featuring LED-loaded costumes and video walls, they create a unique, multi-sensory experience. Their professionalism, versatility, and ability to exceed client expectations, as endorsed by Paloma Faith, make them a standout choice for any event, ensuring memorable and high-energy performances.
Book Your Festival Entertainment Today!
If you are looking to hire festival entertainment from our exclusive list, contact a booking agent via phone, on 0203 7934 042, or our online contact form to receive your free quote!
