Hip hop
Welcome to Glastonbury, the iconic music festival that needs no introduction! As you wander through the vibrant fields of Worthy Farm, be prepared to embark on a journey like no other. This year’s lineup is an eclectic mix of established legends, rising stars, and groundbreaking acts that will leave you breathless and begging for more. From the main stage to the hidden gems nestled in the corners of this enchanted playground, we’ve curated a list of acts that you simply cannot afford to miss.
Remember, it’s not all about the headliners! Glastonbury has always done an incredible job of scouting out an array of producers, artists and all-round creatives from around the globe who are early on in their journey and bound for great things. We wrote an alternative list of acts to check out, that encourages you to venture away from the Pyramid Stage. It’s worth it, we swear. So grab your wellies, open your ears, and get ready to be swept away by the incredible talent that graces the stages of Glastonbury. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as we present to you the acts to look out for at Glastonbury 2023.
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FLOHIO // The Park Stage, Saturday 2pm-2.45pm
If you’re searching for an artist who encapsulates raw energy, fierce lyricism, and an undeniable stage presence, then Flohio is the act you absolutely cannot miss at Glastonbury. This London-born rapper has been making waves with her unique blend of grime, hip-hop, and experimental electronic sounds. Flohio’s commanding delivery and razor-sharp wordplay cut through the air like a lightning bolt, leaving audiences in awe of her undeniable talent. With her dynamic presence and magnetic charisma, she effortlessly commands the stage, captivating everyone in her path. Flohio’s performances are a masterclass in unapologetic self-expression, as she fearlessly delves into themes of identity, empowerment, and social commentary.
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Young Fathers // West Holts Stage, Friday 8.30pm-9.30pm
If you’re in search of an unforgettable live performance that pushes the boundaries of genre and defies categorization, then catching Young Fathers at Glastonbury is an absolute must. Hailing from Edinburgh, this Scottish trio has carved out a unique sonic landscape that blends elements of hip-hop, alternative rock, gospel, and electronica. With their dynamic and unpredictable sound, Young Fathers mesmerize audiences with their captivating melodies, infectious rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their live shows are a revelation, with each member pouring their heart and soul into their performance, creating an intense and immersive experience. From the poignant and introspective moments to the explosive bursts of energy, Young Fathers take you on an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you breathless. Their ability to fuse raw emotion with innovative production sets them apart as true innovators in their field.
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Nix Northwest & The Silhouette Project
This dynamic collective, performing with the enigmatic Nix Northwest, effortlessly blends elements of jazz, soul, funk, and hip hop to create a truly mesmerizing experience. With their lush arrangements, infectious grooves, and soul-stirring vocals, Nix Northwest and the Silhouette Project transport listeners to a realm where time stands still. Their performances are a masterclass in musical fusion, seamlessly blending live instrumentation with masterful lyricism, resulting in a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Nix Northwest’s captivating stage presence and impassioned storytelling add an extra layer of depth to their performances, connecting with audiences on a profound level.
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Erika De Cassier // The Lonely Hearts Club, Saturday 4-15pm-5pm
Prepare to be transported to a dreamy sonic realm as Erika De Cassier takes the stage at Glastonbury. This Danish singer-songwriter and producer has been captivating audiences with her lush, soul-infused R&B and intimate lyrics. Erika’s music effortlessly blends nostalgic vibes with a contemporary touch, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Her velvety-smooth vocals, combined with her impeccable songwriting, draw listeners into a world where vulnerability meets empowerment. Erika’s performances exude an effortless coolness, as she effortlessly glides through her set, captivating the crowd with her magnetic presence. Whether you’re a fan of soulful ballads or infectious grooves, Erika De Cassier’s music will captivate your heart and soul. So, don’t miss the opportunity to witness her spellbinding performance at Glastonbury, where her ethereal melodies and soul-stirring voice will leave you mesmerized and yearning for more.
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HAAi // San Remo, Friday 1.30am-3am
If there’s one act that promises to deliver an extraordinary experience at Glastonbury, it’s HAAi. With her infectious energy and unparalleled ability to curate immersive sets, Haai has become a force to be reckoned within the electronic music scene. Her sets much like her productions effortlessly weaves together a diverse range of genres, seamlessly blending disco, house, techno, and everything in between. Her infectious enthusiasm spreads like wildfire, captivating audiences and creating an electric atmosphere that transcends the boundaries of the dancefloor. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or a newcomer to the electronic music scene, witnessing HAAi’s performance at Glastonbury is an opportunity to surrender to the rhythm and lose yourself in the euphoria of the moment.
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N’famady Kouyaté // Bread and Roses, Thursday 8.30pm-9.30pm
N’famady Kouyaté is a young master musician from Guinea (Conakry), now based in Cardiff, Wales, UK. N’famady’s primary instrument is the balafon – a traditional wooden xylophone, sacred to West African culture and his family heritage of the griot. He was named the winner of the Glastonbury 2023 Emerging Talent Competition, which is supported by PRS for Music and the PRS Foundation. N’famady wins a slot on one of the Festival’s main stages, plus a £5,000 Talent Development prize from the PRS Foundation. N’famady’s performances create amazing atmospheres and vibrations wherever he goes, and audiences are charmed by his infectious enthusiasm and joy.
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Barry Can’t Swim // Stonebridge Bar, Saturday 3am-4am
Edinburgh-born, London-based electronic producer and DJ making a name with his signature sound of jazz-inflicted dance music. Taking samples and inspiration from all over the world, his records have been released on labels such as Shall Not Fade and Ninja Tune, earning support from the likes of Denis Sulta, O’Flynn and Armand Van Helden. Barry brings the tunes and groove to every party, with his DJ sets at Printworks, Fabric, Warehouse Project and Mixmag’s Lab all full of feel-good moments. Expect house, piano, melodic, euphoric, energetic, along with plenty of Barry’s own productions slipped into the mix. He’s even produced a track about the festival titled ‘Sunday At Glasto’.
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Papa Nugs // Platform 23, Thursday 8-9pm & Babylon Uprising, Saturday 10pm-11pm
Papa Nugs is a London based multi genre producer & DJ specialising in high energy breaks, electro, progressive house/trance and everything 160bpm. This past year has seen him play a multitude of events and festivals across the country including We Out Here, Leeds Festival, Latitude, The Causes Seaside Beano, Hidden, Colour Factory, Village Underground and many more. A highlight of his year has been becoming a Rinse FM resident, as well as releases on ec2a, Alien Communications’s Space Dust, and a Mixmag endorsed self-release. The DJ turned producer has been on an upwards trajectory this year with a stacked-out summer of shows and burgeoning discography, he’s definitely one to catch this year.
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Glastonbury runs between June 21st – 25th.
Words: Josh Crowe
