Charli XCX, Neil Young and Scissor Sisters give Glastonbury goosebumps

The Glastonbury Festival delivered an unforgettable Saturday night, packed with music legends and rising stars. Fans faced a tough decision, having to pick between pop sensation Charli XCX, rock icon Neil Young, the energetic Scissor Sisters, and the dynamic rapper Doechii. Charli XCX drew the largest crowd, transforming The Other Stage into a vibrant, laser-filled dance party. She performed alone but was constantly moving, captivating the audience with her energetic dance moves and hit songs from her album Brat. Although there were rumors of surprise guests like Lorde or Billie Eilish, only Gracie Abrams appeared on the big screens, performing a viral TikTok dance. Despite some disappointment, Charli’s performance was so powerful that fans didn’t seem to mind. She ended her set by reclaiming her hit song I Love It and reassured everyone that her album Brat would always be special to her.

Meanwhile, Neil Young took over the Pyramid Stage with a completely different vibe. He started his set quietly, playing an acoustic song alone, but soon his band, The Chrome Hearts, joined him for a series of classic rock anthems. The crowd was treated to both electric and acoustic favorites, and Young even played a historic guitar once owned by Hank Williams. At 79, his voice was still strong and clear, and his guitar solos, especially on Like A Hurricane, were mesmerizing. He closed his set with a powerful protest song, Tear Your Hatred Down, reflecting on the contrast between the hopes of the 1960s and the challenges of today.

Doechii, known as the Swamp Princess, brought her own flair to the West Holts Stage. Her 45-minute set was packed with singing, rapping, dancing, and multiple costume changes. She made the show fun by poking fun at herself and involving her dancers in creative routines. Her performance, themed around the history of hip-hop, was watched by none other than Harry Styles, who enjoyed the show from the crowd. Doechii’s rapid rise in the music world was clear, and her Glastonbury set felt like a major milestone.

The Scissor Sisters continued their reunion with a packed tent, reminding everyone of their many hits. Special guests like Beth Ditto and Jessie Ware joined them, and Sir Ian McKellen delivered a dramatic monologue from their song Invisible Light. The crowd was thrilled, singing along to classics like I Don’t Feel Like Dancing and Filthy/Gorgeous.

Earlier in the day, the festival featured a variety of acts. The Kaiser Chiefs opened the main stage with their energetic rock songs, while Brandi Carlile impressed the audience with a heartfelt cover of Radiohead’s Fake Plastic Trees and her own emotional ballads. Jade wowed the crowd with a high-energy set, including songs from her Little Mix days, and Raye brought a touch of glamour to the Pyramid Stage with her jazzy, award-winning hits. There was even a surprise performance by Pulp, celebrating the anniversary of their legendary 1995 headline set.

The day wasn’t without controversy, as acts like Kneecap and Bob Vylan used their sets to speak out on political issues, drawing attention from the police. When Deftones had to cancel due to illness, Skepta stepped in for an impromptu performance, keeping the energy high. Ezra Collective brought a carnival atmosphere with their jazz and Afrobeat sounds, encouraging the crowd to dance as the sun set.

Glastonbury continues to be a place where music, community, and important messages come together. With more big names set to perform, the festival remains a celebration of creativity, unity, and the power of live music.