Reading Festival’s success is attributed to its continuous evolution.
The individual behind well-known music festivals like Reading and Leeds, Melvin Benn, emphasized the importance of constant adaptation for the success of such events. Festival Republic, the company he heads, also organizes Wireless, Latitude, Wilderness, and various events in London’s Finsbury, Gunnersbury, and Crystal Palace Parks.
Recounting the past, Benn noted that when he took over the Reading Festival in 1989, it was on a downward trend with a mere 8,000 attendees. He attributed this decline to a failure in curating the right music for the audience and highlighted the ever-changing nature of music as a reason for festivals to stay ahead. He stressed that music is in a perpetual state of evolution, and therefore, festivals must also adapt to meet the tastes of their target demographic.
This adaptability has enabled Reading Festival to transform from solely a rock festival to a multi-genre event, mirroring the diverse musical preferences of young people. Benn explained that the ability to reflect current music trends has been instrumental in the festival’s continued success. Moreover, he underscored the need for festivals to cater to broader aspects beyond just music, pointing out that the younger generation desires more diverse experiences compared to previous generations.
Recognizing the evolving needs of festival-goers, Benn highlighted the introduction of new campsite options tailored to different preferences, including solo attendees and those seeking a more tranquil post-concert experience. In addition to catering to changing preferences, ensuring accessibility, fostering strong partnerships with local authorities, and addressing complaints promptly were identified as critical factors in the longevity of festivals.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Reading and Leeds festivals showcased headliners such as Chappell Roan, Hozier, Bring Me The Horizon, and Travis Scott. Benn expressed his satisfaction in creating an enjoyable experience for attendees and highlighted the significance of engaging headliners in driving festival success. He also made a playful reference to Chappell Roan’s hit song, playfully mentioning the Pink Pony Club’s presence at the festival.
Ultimately, Benn’s insights shed light on the dynamic nature of the festival industry and underscored the necessity for constant evolution to remain relevant and successful. By staying attuned to the evolving tastes and preferences of audiences, festivals can continue to thrive and provide memorable experiences for attendees.