ONES TO WATCH: READING FESTIVAL 2025
Written by Lorna Leahy / @photosbylorna
Reading Festival is back with a bang this year and the lineup is packed with big names, but it’s also a great place to catch artists on the rise. At Songbird HQ, we make it a point to spotlight emerging artists – the future headliners carving out their space right now. Whether you’re into indie, punk, or music that’s topping the charts, there’s a solid mix across the weekend. Here are some of the standout acts to keep on your radar.
FRIDAY
The Friday lineup seems to lean into more of an alternative/indie sound, but there’s still something for everyone!
Snayx
Brighton-based Snayx are all about energy, with a sharp, bass-driven sound that blends punk and garage rock. Their live shows are fast, loud, and full of intensity, creating an exciting atmosphere from start to finish. With a straightforward, no-frills approach to their music, they’re a great pick for anyone looking for a raw, high-energy performance.
Red Rum Club
Red Rum Club brings a fun mix of indie rock and brass that’s perfect for a festival crowd. Their songs are catchy, full of energy, and easy to get into, even if you don’t know them yet. A great choice for something a bit different on the day.
Lola Young
Lola Young is a standout at this year’s Reading Festival, blending soulful vocals with sharp songwriting. Her track “Messy” topped the UK Singles Chart last year, and she earned a BRIT Award nomination for Best Pop Act in 2025. It’s rare to find a performer like her, as her voice sounds even better live than it does recorded, making her set a must-see for fans of heartfelt music.
Soft Play
Soft Play, formerly known as Slaves, brings a high-energy, punk-infused sound with sharp, straightforward lyrics. Their music blends fast-paced rhythms and a mix of chaotic and catchy riffs, creating an intense but engaging live performance. Known for their raw, no-holds-barred style, they offer a gritty and unpolished set that’s perfect for fans of punk and alternative rock. Expect a lively show that doesn’t hold back.
SATURDAY
Historically, Reading and Leeds was known as a rock music festival, and many of the OG followers have felt that R&L has been slowly moving away from this theme. However, Saturday’s lineup is stacked with huge names in the rock, punk and metal scene. This day is bound to be a favourite for alternative music lovers.
South Arcade
South Arcade combine alt-rock with a touch of pop-punk, meaning their music is great to sing along to but is punchy at the same time. Live, they bring a lot of energy and they’re great at connecting with the crowd. Hopefully they’ll be on one of the more intimate stages to create a barrierless venue feel so you can mosh and sing to your heart’s desire!
Lambrini Girls
If you haven’t been to a Lambrini Girls live performance yet, don’t miss this opportunity! Expect lots of talk about current politics and world views – cathartic shouting and chanting is definitely encouraged. Lead singer, Phoebe Lunny, is known for getting in the pit with the fans and crowd surfing. Their gigs are interactive and highly anticipated, so if you want to get involved, get down early to their set to avoid disappointment.
Bilmuri
After a sold out UK tour last month, where they had to upgrade their London venue due to demand, Bilmuri had to be added to our “do not miss” list. They have an unusual sound, known for blending genres like post-hardcore, pop-punk, and even country. Bilmuri is known for bringing a lot of energy to the stage, delivering a dynamic performance that grabs attention in any lineup.
Wonderhorse
Wunderhorse are definitely worth catching at the Reading Festival. They have a slightly softer vibe – their music would probably be described as alt rock/grunge. Fronted by Jacob Slater, they have a knack for creating a real connection with the crowd and know how to balance the quieter moments with moments of explosive energy. If you’re into music that’s both emotive and energetic, their performance will be one to remember.
SUNDAY
Sunday has some incredible up and coming artists on the lineup – particularly those we should expect to see in the UK charts in the next few years.
Nieve Ella
Nieve’s been steadily gaining attention for her honest, melodic indie pop. With a sound influenced by the likes of Phoebe Bridgers and Sam Fender, her music feels both personal and easy to connect with. She’s already supported major acts and is steadily building a name for herself, making her set at Reading a solid choice for fans of thoughtful, relatable pop.
Matilda Mann
If you’re looking for something a little more peaceful, Matilda Mann is a great choice. She is a singer-songwriter from West London, known for her gentle indie-folk sound and introspective lyrics. You may have heard her music being played on Radio 1 or Radio 6, and she has opened for artists like Arlo Parks and Beabadoobee. Her music offers a thoughtful and intimate listening experience, making her a noteworthy act at Reading Festival.
Amyl and the Sniffers
Amyl and the Sniffers feel slightly out of place on a pop-leaning day, but they’re one of the most exciting live punk acts around right now. Fronted by the dynamic Amy Taylor, their live shows are known for their intensity and grit. Beyond the music, Taylor is outspoken on politics and a strong advocate for women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, adding even more punch to their already powerful performances. If you’re after something with both energy and meaning, their set is one to catch.
Whether you’re deep into the music scene or just there for the atmosphere, these are the artists worth showing up early for. Reading’s smaller stages are often where the best surprises happen – and this year looks like no exception.
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