It’s been over 50 years since the first Glastonbury and this year marks the first Glastonbury since its last outing in 2019 where the likes of The Cure, The Killers and Stormzy all graced the stage. Whilst ‘Glasters’ is without doubt a truly special festival and is the one that all musicians want to play, this year will be even more special as it’s the first one that will be celebrating its 50th anniversary (albeit two years later than planned). There has been a three year gap since the last Glastonbury and it really feels that a full throttle festival season has been a long time coming.
The acts that are scheduled to appear at Glastonbury 2022 include Kendrick Lamar, Paul McCartney, Billie Eilish, and Olivia Rodrigo amongst others and there is certain to be some standout performances from the prestigious line up that will be added to the history books of the most memorable sets at Glastonbury.
In celebration of Glastonbury coming back, here are the top 25 memorable Glastonbury performances that deserve revisiting.
Why Glastonbury Performances Become Music History?
Few festivals create cultural moments quite like Glastonbury. From legendary headline sets to unexpected appearances, Worthy Farm has provided a stage where established icons and rising artists can deliver career-defining performances. Part of the magic comes from the scale of the audience, but atmosphere matters just as much. Songs already loved by millions can suddenly take on new meaning when performed beneath the Pyramid Stage lights, creating shared moments that fans continue talking about long after the festival ends.
What Makes a Glastonbury Set Truly Memorable?
The most unforgettable performances are rarely about technical perfection alone. Personality, crowd connection, timing and a sense of occasion can transform a familiar set into festival history. Some artists arrive as established stars, while others leave with an entirely new audience after delivering a breakthrough performance. That unpredictability remains central to Glastonbury’s appeal. Across rock, pop, hip-hop and electronic music, each generation produces defining sets that capture a particular moment while adding another chapter to the festival’s remarkable musical legacy.
David Bowie – Life on Mars
Beyonce – Crazy In LoveJohnny Cash – Ring of FireJay-Z – EncoreAmy Winehouse – Back to BlackThe Foo Fighters – EverlongDolly Parton – JolenePet Shop Boys – It’s a SinJames Brown – I Feel GoodStormzy – Vossi BopBlur – TenderThe Cure – Friday I’m in LoveMetallica – OneLeonard Cohen – HallelujahThe Killers – Mr BrightsideArctic Monkeys – I bet you look good on the dancefloorThe Verve – Bittersweet SymphonyRadiohead – Karma Police Liam Gallagher – Do Y’know What I Mean?Kylie Minogue – Love At First SightOasis – Live ForeverLionel Richie – Dancing on the Ceiling Nile Rodgers and CHIC – Good TimesBrian Wilson – Good Vibrations Dave – Location
Glastonbury is a festival that makes history and we have seen an array of history making performances over the years. Whilst we haven’t been able to include every one here, the sets from the likes of Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones, Kanye West, Adele, The Smiths and more are absolutely worthy of inclusion. Glastonbury has also been pivotal for turning under-the-radar bands and acts into household names overnight. From T.Rex in 1970 – the festivals inaugural year to Basement Jaxx in 2005, many artists have stepped in at the last minute and have served up triumphant performances that won them an army of new fans.
We can’t wait to see what Glastonbury 2022 will serve up this year!
