ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025 - FRIDAY
DAY ONE OF LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025 WAS A MIXED MUSICAL VIBE, IGNITing THE YORKSHIRE CROWD WITH TRAVIS SCOTT STEALING THE SHOW.
★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
TRAVIS SCOTT HEADLINES DAY ONE ON MAIN STAGE AT ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Day One of Leeds Festival 2025 began under grey skies, with early arrivals moving through Bramham Park that reflected the overcast weather. Despite the subdued start, there was an unmistakable buzz in the air, as festival-goers eagerly awaited the first performances and the exclusive headline sets. By mid-afternoon, the clouds began to part, and sunlight broke across Bramham Park, illuminating the stages and transforming the mood. The warmth of the sun brought a new energy to the crowds, casting a golden glow over Bramham Park and lifting spirits as music began to fill the air. This gradual shift from grey to sunlit skies mirrored the festival’s own dynamic energy, moving from the gentle excitement of early acts to the later performances that would define the day.
Cliffords over on the BBC Introducing Stage was the first act we saw on Day One of Rockstar Energy Presents… Leeds Festival 2025. The Irish indie-pop band’s set had an infectious, playful energy that immediately drew in early arrivals. Their indie-pop sound was characterized by bright, catchy guitar riffs and smooth vocal harmonies that felt both polished and approachable. The band’s chemistry on stage was evident, with synchronized movements, playful banter, and subtle gestures acknowledging the audience. Fans responded enthusiastically, clapping, singing along, and jumping along when asked by the band. 4The set was carefully paced, moving from upbeat tracks that sparked communal excitement to slower, reflective moments that allowed the crowd to catch their breath and connect with the music on a deeper level. Even within the festival’s sprawling scale, Cliffords managed to create an intimate connection, making fans feel as if they were part of a shared, joyful musical experience.
CLIFFORDS PERFORMING ON BBC INTRODUCING STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Heading over to the Main Stage, saw Waterparks bring a surge of high-energy pop-punk that instantly transformed the atmosphere of the crowd at Bramham Park. Frontman Awsten Knight commanded the stage with ferocious energy, and interacting with fans, while the band’s tight instrumentation ensured that every riff and drumbeat landed perfectly. The crowd’s response was immediate and visceral; pit areas erupted with moshing, and collective singalongs filled the air. The set’s dynamic flow alternated between explosive, catchy tracks and slightly more melodic, anthem-like numbers, providing necessary ebbs and flows without diminishing intensity. Overall Waterparks’ set and the fan’s interaction cemented Waterparks as a festival standout, leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement for the acts to come.
WATERPARKS PERFORMING ON MAIN STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
After a short time at Main Stage, it was back over to the Festival Republic stage for Nell Mescal, which was a striking contrast, immersing the audience in a delicate, emotive atmosphere. Her voice floated effortlessly over acoustic instrumentation, weaving intricate melodies that highlighted both technical skill and raw vulnerability. Each song was delivered with deliberate control, drawing the audience into her world through emotive phrasing and subtle dynamics. Fans leaned in during quieter passages before erupting in applause and cheers at climactic moments. Between tracks, Nell shared glimpses of personal stories and reflections, deepening the sense of intimacy despite the festival’s large scale. Her connection with the audience felt genuine and reciprocal, with each nod, smile, and gesture acknowledged and mirrored by the crowd. The performance showcased her ability to hold attention purely through emotion and musicianship, marking her as one of the festival’s most compelling emerging artists.
NELL MESCAL PERFORMING ON FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Main Stage saw one of the highlights of the day. No strangers to Leeds Festival, Sea Girls returned, bringing energy to full tilt with soaring indie-rock anthems that instantly transformed the space into a massive Yorkshire singalong. Henry Camamile’s vocals soared over driving guitar riffs and pulsating percussion, commanding the audience’s attention while inviting participation. Fans quickly enaged well with the band, clapping and singing along to each song, creating a sense of shared euphoria. The set was structured to alternate between explosive, high-energy numbers and more introspective, melodic tracks, allowing the audience to experience both exhilaration and emotional resonance. The band’s on-stage energy was infectious, as each member engaged with both the music and the audience, amplifying the communal joy. Stage lighting and visual cues heightened dramatic moments, turning each song into a miniature spectacle.
SEA GIRLS PERFORMING ON MAIN STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Discovering more new talent on BBC Introducing Stage, Indoor Foxes delivered a hypnotic, atmospheric performance that drew the crowd into a trance-like state. Layered synths, airy vocals, and subtle percussion created a cinematic soundscape, enveloping festival-goers in immersive textures. Fans seemed to engaged well and some seemed know the lyrics to the song which was a great feeling for the band for fans knowing lyrics so early in their early career. The band’s understated stage presence allowed the music’s nuance to shine, with small gestures and expressive movements accentuating the emotional arc of each track. Moments of quiet reflection were punctuated by crescendos that reinvigorated the audience, maintaining engagement without ever overwhelming. This set emphasized the festival’s musical diversity and showcased the band’s ability to craft an enveloping auditory experience.
INDOOR FOXES PERFORMING ON BBC INTRODUCING STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
For our first visit to Chevron Stage, Leigh-Anne’s performance was a tour de force of pop-R&B energy, seamlessly combining precise choreography, powerful vocals, and authentic crowd engagement. Despite coming on stage late, from the moment she stepped on stage, the audience was fully captivated, responding enthusiastically to call-and-response sections, dance routines, and her dynamic stage presence. Her set moved fluidly between high-energy, danceable tracks that got the crowd jumping and slower, more melodic songs that showcased her vocal range and emotional depth. Leigh-Anne’s charisma was evident in every movement, as she interacted with fans, encouraged singalongs, and fed off the audience’s energy to elevate each performance moment. The lighting and visual effects enhanced her storytelling, creating dramatic highlights and intimate pauses that gave each song emotional weight. By the end of her set, Leigh-Anne had not only delivered a technically polished and engaging performance but also fostered a sense of connection and community, making her one of the festival’s standout acts.
LEIGH-ANNE PERFORMING ON CHEVRON STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Skye Newman’s Festival Republic stage performance captivated attendees with her ethereal blend of electronic pop and delicate vocals. Her set was characterized by atmospheric layers, shimmering synths, and intricate rhythmic patterns that drew the audience into a dreamlike state. Fans moved gently in time with the music, mesmerized by the subtle complexity and emotive power of each track. Skye alternated between intimate, reflective songs and more vibrant, energetic pieces, maintaining engagement while showcasing versatility. Lighting and stage visuals complemented the music, creating an enveloping sensory experience that felt both expansive and personal.
SKYE NEWMAN PERFORMING ON FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Main Stage saw Suki Waterhouse deliver a striking blend of cinematic elegance and contemporary pop, captivating the audience with a mix of sultry vocals, emotive lyrics, and polished stagecraft. Her performance combined lush, atmospheric instrumentation with carefully curated visuals, creating a mesmerizing sensory experience. Fans swayed and sang along, clearly absorbed in the emotional resonance of each track, while Suki’s poised yet approachable presence allowed her to connect deeply with the crowd. Between songs, she engaged with festival-goers through playful banter and heartfelt reflections on her music, making the performance feel intimate despite the large-scale setting. She also delighted fans with a cover of Oasis’s “Don’t Look Back in Anger.” The lighting design complemented her aesthetic perfectly, shifting from warm, glowing hues during introspective tracks to bold, dynamic colors for more upbeat songs. Her set was a balance of sophistication and accessibility, leaving a lasting impression as both a talented musician and a commanding live performer.
SUKI WATERHOUSE PERFORMING ON MAIN STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Nell Mescal returned following her Festival Republic stage performance for an intimate Aux Stage Unplugged Podcast hosted by Katie Owen. Her set delivered stripped-back acoustic renditions that showcased her songwriting and emotive vocals in intimate detail. The close setting allowed for direct interaction with the audience, who responded warmly to her stories and explanations of her songs’ meanings. Each note and lyric felt deliberate, amplified by the intimacy of the stage and the attentive crowd. The performance highlighted technical skill, emotional resonance, and personal engagement, providing a unique and deeply memorable festival moment.
As rumours sparked over the festival about a secret set on BBC Introducing Stage, many were trying to find out who it was. It was soon announced on the official RandL app, revealing it was the wonderful Nieve Ella.
Nieve Ella’s secret set thrilled fans with its unannounced intimacy and raw musicality. Her expressive vocals and confident stage presence commanded attention, while stripped-back arrangements allowed each lyric and melodic nuance to resonate fully. The smaller stage amplified connection, with the crowd leaning in and responding enthusiastically to every song. The surprise element generated excitement, and her ability to captivate in such a setting confirmed her status as one of the festival’s most promising emerging artists. This performance was especially notable as Nieve Ella also had a set on the Festival Republic Stage, giving fans a rare chance to see her twice in one day.
NIEVE ELLA PERFORMING A SECRET SET ON BBC INTRODUCING STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Australia’s Amyl and The Sniffers set on Main Stage was the biggest highlight of the day. Amyl & The Sniffers brought pure punk ferocity to the festival, igniting the crowd from the very first riff. Amy Taylor’s vocals were wild and commanding, perfectly matched by the band’s raw, high-octane instrumentation. The energy was relentless, with fans moshing, crowd surfing, and shouting along to every chorus. Their set was tight and explosive, with each song delivered like a punch, balancing chaos with precision. Stage presence was electric—Amy moved across the stage with uncontainable intensity, engaging the audience with snarls, gestures, and infectious enthusiasm. Lighting and smoke effects amplified the anarchic energy, making the performance feel like a controlled frenzy. Between songs, the band’s playful banter and cheeky humor created a shared camaraderie with the crowd, making everyone feel part of the rebellion. During the set, Amy Taylor took a moment to speak out in support of Palestine, calling for an end to the killing of innocent people and describing the situation as “fucked up.” She also noted that other artists over the past two years have expressed similar support, emphasizing that there is no harm in calling it out and talking about it—an important moment of solidarity that was met with enthusiastic approval from the audience. By the end, the set left a palpable buzz of excitement and adrenaline across Bramham Park.
AMYL & THE SNIFFERS PERFORMING ON MAIN STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Trippie Redd brought high-energy hip-hop to the Main Stage, captivating the audience with his signature melodic rap and dynamic stage presence. Opening with “Love Scars,” he immediately set the tone, engaging fans with emotive delivery and commanding energy. Hits like “Topanga,” “Taking a Walk,” and “Dark Knight Dummo” showcased his versatility and ability to connect across different moods and tempos. Trippie moved fluidly across the stage, interacting with fans, hyping up the crowd, and encouraging singalongs, creating a communal, high-energy atmosphere. The visuals and lighting—featuring bold color washes, strobes, and synchronized effects—complemented the music, making each track feel immersive and larger-than-life. While some noted the set felt slightly abbreviated due to scheduling, Trippie’s charisma, stagecraft, and emotive performance reinforced his status as a prominent figure in contemporary hip-hop. By the end of the set, fans were left exhilarated, fully engaged, and buzzing with energy, eager for more of his genre-blending soundscapes.
TRIPPIE REDD PERFORMING ON MAIN STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Staying at Main Stage saw Day One’s sub-headliners… D-Block-Europe. Following their last performance in 2022, the hip-hop British duo delivered an electrifying set that completely energized the festival grounds. From the first beat, the duo commanded attention with their signature UK drill and trap sound, seamlessly blending heavy basslines with melodic hooks that had the crowd singing along at full volume. Every track was delivered with precision and confidence, showcasing their chemistry and stage control. Fans responded with relentless energy, and chanting lyrics back to the performers, creating a tangible sense of collective excitement. The production added depth to the performance, with booming sound systems emphasizing sub-bass frequencies and crisp vocal clarity, allowing every lyrical nuance to resonate across Bramham Park. D-Block Europe’s ability to interact with the audience was particularly notable; between tracks, they engaged with fans directly, hyping up the crowd, and encouraging singalongs that amplified the communal energy. The set was structured to maintain momentum, balancing high-octane tracks with moments that allowed the audience to catch their breath before launching into another wave of adrenaline. By the end, the duo had transformed the area into a kinetic, high-energy spectacle that left fans buzzing with excitement and firmly cemented their place as festival heavyweights.
CROWD WATCHING D-BLOCK EUROPE PERFORMING ON MAIN STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
D-BLOCK EUROPE PERFORMING ON MAIN STAGR ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Sammy Virji closed Day One of Rockstar Energy presents… Leeds Festival 2025 on the Chevron Stage, delivering a polished and infectious pop-R&B performance that blended smooth vocals with dynamic stagecraft. Right from the opening track, he engaged the audience with both charisma and precision, effortlessly connecting through call-and-response sections, choreography, and playful interactions. His set showcased a blend of upbeat, danceable tracks alongside slower, more introspective songs, highlighting his versatility as a performer. Fans were fully involved, singing along, and moving in rhythm with the beats, creating a lively and communal atmosphere. The lighting and stage production enhanced each moment, with dramatic shifts and visual effects that accentuated the mood of the songs. Between tracks, Sammy shared anecdotes and personal insights, fostering a sense of intimacy despite the festival’s large scale. The combination of strong vocal performance, polished showmanship, and audience engagement made his set a standout highlight of the day, leaving attendees both impressed and energized.
SAMMY VIRJI CLOSING THE CHEVRON STAGE ON DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Headlining the Festival Republic Stage on the opening night, The Dare delivered a set that justified his rising reputation as one of the most intriguing new names in electro-punk. Clad in his signature sharp suit, he cut a striking figure as he worked through a set built around spiky synths, sardonic vocals, and the viral hit Girls. What could have felt like style over substance instead came across as a carefully honed aesthetic, with his detached cool offset by the undeniable energy rippling through the tent. The atmosphere was charged and immersive, with the crowd responding in kind—dancing, chanting, and leaning into the chaotic glamour he projected. Though relatively early in his career, The Dare showcased a fully formed vision, turning the Festival Republic tent into a late-night club for half an hour and marking himself out as a performer capable of commanding much larger stages in years to come.
THE DARE CLOSING THE FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY ONE OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Now for the big one over on the Main Stage: this year’s UK and European exclusive headliner was… Travis Scott, who brought a truly unforgettable headline performance, delivering an exclusive UK and European set that left Bramham Park in awe. From the opening moments, Travis commanded the stage with charisma, energy, and precision, backed by an enormous production that included pyrotechnics, giant video screens, immersive lighting, and a thunderous sound system that shook the grounds. His setlist was a masterful mix of chart-topping hits and deeper cuts, each track met with rapturous applause and participation from the audience. Fans danced, chanted lyrics, and raised their hands in unison, creating an electric communal atmosphere that pulsed through the entire festival. Travis’s stage presence was magnetic, moving seamlessly across the platform, interacting with the crowd, and hyping each moment to perfection. The visual production was equally remarkable, with intense light shows, dynamic projections, and perfectly timed pyrotechnics accentuating the music. Even quieter, more introspective tracks were delivered with precision, giving the crowd a chance to absorb the artistry behind his work. However, after just 50 minutes, Travis abruptly ended his set with a brief goodbye to the Yorkshire crowd — a move that sparked boos from sections of the audience who had expected more. By the finale, Travis Scott had not only captivated the audience but had created a once-in-a-lifetime live music experience, leaving fans exhilarated, breathless, and talking about the set long after it.
TRAVIS SCOTT CLOSING THE MAIN STAGE DAY ONE ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Across Bramham Park, the atmosphere remained buzzing from start to finish, with festival-goers enjoying the ability to meet some of their favourite bands and artists at the BBC Radio 1 photo booth, including Suki Waterhouse, Sea Girls, and Luvcat. This added a personal, interactive element to the day, making the festival feel both monumental in scale and intimate in experience. The combination of surprise sets, immersive performances, and vibrant crowd energy made Day One of Leeds Festival 2025 a truly memorable opening to the weekend.
Let’s see what Day Two has got in store for the Yorkshire crowd after a fantastic first day at Rockstar Energy presents… Leeds Festival 2025!
REVIEW BY: CALUM BUCHAN AND JOHN HAYHURST
PHOTOS BY: JOHN HAYHURST
