During this bank holiday weekend, thousands of festival attendees will flock to fields in both the south and north of England for the Reading and Leeds Festival. Since it began, this sister festival has been instrumental in advancing UK artists to new levels. This year, it promises a stellar lineup encompassing indie, alternative, RnB, hip-hop, and electronic music.
From emerging pop stars to viral rappers debuting at festivals, CLASH has curated a selection of rising talents to explore away from the MainStage excitement.
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Aki Oke
Merging indie with hyperpop influences into euphoric house-party tracks, Aki Oke is swiftly gaining recognition as one of London’s most exciting new artists. Their debut single ‘CITY IN LOVE’, released on Valentine’s Day this year, combines melancholic lyrics with hedonistic, synth-based energy—a bittersweet soundtrack for summer evenings. Already making an impact at UK festivals, Oke’s performances promise a blend of nostalgia and release, delivering a wave of emotion perfectly suited for Reading’s open air. Gabby Ofo
Demae
As a vital figure in London’s thriving neo-soul scene, Demae blends jazz elements, hip-hop beats, and warm R&B grooves in her unique tracks. With origins in the experimental hip-hop group Hawk House and recent contributions to Kokoroko’s latest album, she is steadily forging her own identity. Her 2020 debut project ‘Life Works Out…Usually’, featuring Fatima and Joe Armon-Jones, showcased her talent for balancing relaxed flows with soulful narratives. Anticipate a set that transitions between intimacy and uplift. Gabby Ofo
Keo
Revitalizing alternative rock, the London quartet Keo is paving a fresh path in the genre. Led by brothers Finn and Conor Keogh alongside Oli Spackman and Jimmy Lanwern, their music blends grunge grit with folk influences, marrying the emotional intensity of Jeff Buckley with Radiohead’s atmospheric sound. Having already shared the stage with Kings of Leon and The Vaccines at BST Hyde Park, their live performances are packed with urgency. Reading and Leeds provide the ideal setting for their jagged riffs and soaring vocals. Gabby Ofo
Nieve Ella
Emerging from the serene landscapes of Shropshire to the vibrant energy of festival stages, Nieve Ella has become one of indie pop’s most intriguing new storytellers. After picking up her late father’s guitar during lockdown, she has transformed her grief into radiant anthems like ‘Glasshouses’ and ’19 in a Week’. Her debut EP ‘Young & Naive’ captures Gen Z introspection through poignant hooks, while her recent singles exhibit a sharper edge and pop appeal. Gabby Ofo
V.I.C
Born in Southampton and now based in London, rapper V.I.C has rapidly established himself as one of UK rap’s most dynamic up-and-comers. Rising to fame with the viral hit ‘A Teen’, featured on the FIFA 22 soundtrack, he has since garnered millions of streams and sold-out shows. His upcoming mixtape ‘VÄRIANT’ highlights his versatility, ranging from the gritty ‘Can’t Take No More’ to the polished ‘Diamonds’. Expect a high-energy performance at Reading, infused with sharp lyricism, raw emotion, and an undeniable presence. Gabby Ofo
Nxdia
Nxdia’s alt-pop creations exude magnetic late-night energy, balancing powerful vocals with incisive lyrics. Festival-goers will be drawn in by her set, which juxtaposes intimate moments with intense energy, captivating audiences and refusing to let go. On stage, with her tracks enveloping the atmosphere and exuding vitality, Nxdia feels less like a performer and more like a spellbinder. Catch her before the industry takes note. Kaitlin Robson
Lyvia
At Reading and Leeds, you’re likely to discover Lyvia and become enamored by her compelling presence by Monday, making her a staple on your playlists. The Nottingham singer-songwriter delivers indie-pop melodies that feel both expansive and intimate. With a talent for transforming delicate moments into festival anthems, Lyvia has the ability to make her smaller stage appearances feel monumental. Kaitlin Robson
Good Neighbours
Good Neighbours’ sun-kissed indie pop is tailor-made for festival fields; think memorable hooks, uplifting moments, and exuberant crowds. If happiness had a sound, it would be theirs. Their camaraderie as performers is infectious, and their songs are perfect for chanting under the open sky, featuring soaring choruses, catchy hooks, and a nostalgic “remember when we saw them first?” vibe. Kaitlin Robson
Chloe Qisha
Chloe Qisha is a name to watch for 2025. With sleek future-pop production blended with magnetic vocals, she is a true crowd favorite. Possessing charisma and star potential, she crafts infectious songs that have a darker, more subvers
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During this bank holiday weekend, numerous festival attendees will gather in fields across the south and north of England for the Reading and Leeds Festival. Since its