This year, the UK grime scene has kicked off and become a global phenomenon, with Wireless Festival being the UK’s biggest celebration of the scene. With over 135,000 people travelling to Finsbury Park, North London to watch over 80 grime/urban acts and celebrate the talent of the grime scene, Wireless Festival gave us a weekend to remember. As the UK’s largest urban music event, we weren’t surprised that there were international super stars on the bill. With headliners including Calvin Harris, Chase & Status and grime collective Boy Better Know, Wireless gave us the chance to spend the weekend watching some of the world’s best grime and urban acts.
Friday night saw The 1975 (hiiiya Wonderland cover star Matty Healy) take to the stage, as well as R&B star Miguel – who gave an emotional speech on police violence. Dua Lipa, Disciples and Lady Leshurr also gave stunning performances before the evening was rounded off with megastar Calvin Harris, who brought out legendary rapper Dizzee Rascal for an amazing guest appearance (we were kinda hoping for Rihanna, but then it wouldn’t be a London party without an appearance from Dizzee). Saturday was the day rapper/singer/songwriter/producer Future wowed us, with A$AP Ferg, Nadia Rose and The Manor also taking to the stage. Saturday headliners Chase & Status (whose special guests included Novelist and Slaves) rounded off the evening with a totally electric set that stunned the crowds. Sunday marked the end of Wireless with an amazing set from headliners Boy Better Know, alongside girl-of-the-moment Jess Glynne, Fergie (total babe), Action Bronson and Kehlani. The VIPs were there in abundance too, with Will Smith, Jada, Willow and Jaden coming along to celebrate Jaden’s 18th birthday.
Festival Director Melvin Benn said, “this was a big year for Wireless Festival. Calvin Harris on Friday, a sold out Saturday show for Chase & Status’ return, and on Sunday night, the Wireless crowd were treated to what can only be described as history in the making. For years, Wireless has been the only London festival celebrating urban music, which was cemented by the incredible Boy Better Know headline performance. It’s safe to say the bar has been set high for Wireless 2017.” We can’t wait for next year.
