Perspectives on Greenbelt 2025: Hope, Hymns, and Shanties

In the late 1970s, I had the opportunity to attend the Reading Rock Festival three times, which was my last experience of a festival. Back then, festival formats and the overall festival experience were vastly different from what they are today.

During that time, music festivals were a place where people came together to enjoy live music, camp out, and immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere. It was a time when festivals were not as commercialized as they are now, and the focus was primarily on the music and the communal experience rather than on profit-making ventures.

One of the most significant differences between festivals then and now is the size and scale of the events. In the late 1970s, festivals were more intimate affairs, with smaller crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. It was possible to wander around the festival grounds, discover new bands, and interact with fellow festival-goers without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer size of the event.

The lineup of artists at festivals has also evolved significantly since the late 1970s. Back then, festivals featured a mix of up-and-coming bands, established artists, and lesser-known acts, giving attendees the opportunity to discover new music and enjoy a diverse range of performances. The emphasis was on showcasing talent and providing a platform for artists to connect with their audience.

In contrast, modern festivals often feature mainstream headliners and popular acts, with less focus on supporting emerging artists and promoting diversity in music. While this may draw larger crowds and boost ticket sales, it can sometimes result in a more homogenized lineup that lacks the variety and creativity of older festivals.

Another noticeable change in festivals over the years is the increase in commercialization and branding. In the late 1970s, festivals were more about the music and the experience, with minimal corporate sponsorship and advertising. Today, festivals are heavily sponsored by brands and corporations, with stages, tents, and even entire areas of the festival grounds bearing the names of sponsors.

This shift towards commercialization has led to a more profit-driven approach to festivals, with organizers prioritizing ticket sales, sponsorship deals, and merchandising over the overall experience of the festival-goers. While this may result in a more polished and professionally-run event, it can sometimes detract from the authenticity and spirit of older festivals.

Despite these changes, the essence of what makes festivals special remains the same. They are still a place where people can come together to enjoy live music, connect with like-minded individuals, and create lasting memories. While the format and execution of festivals may have evolved over the years, the sense of community, camaraderie, and shared love of music continues to endure, making festivals a timeless and cherished tradition for music lovers around the world.