This year's Leeds Festival is shaping up to be another belter as even more acts have been added to the R&L lineup for 2025.
While the biggest named heading to Reading and Leeds has already been confirmed, with the second wave having officially dropped back in February, the annual music and culture festival has now released a third.
More than 80 additional artists have been added to the Leeds Fest lineup this summer, with the return of The Aux Stage, as well as a flurry of other famous names from the entertainment world.
We have a feeling this year is going to be another turn up for the books.
Announced on Friday, 20 June, former Little Mix star turned solo artist Leigh-Anne joins the likes of Skye Newman, Waterparks, Demae, Still Woozy, Bartees Strange and more gracing the R&L fields.
Leeds also has the exclusive bonus of being the only city that gets to see rising British-Malaysian alt pop star, Chloe Qisha, who is making some serious waves here in the UK.
Perhaps the most exciting action, we would argue, is once again taking place over on the BBC Introducing stage, formerly playing to host everyone from Ed Sheeran and Bombay Bicycle Club to the likes of Wunderhorse, more recently.
On the subject of ever-growing post-punk and grungey, guitar-driven bands, another name playing that very same stage has caught attention: Keo, who have already been dubbed 'the next Wunderhorse.'
Nxdia, Brummy boys Overpass, and Sunday are other ones to try and make time for if you can, and there's even an extended list of non-music acts, including US comedian and social media personality, Brittany Broski (debut), as well as JaackMaate’s Happy Hour podcast.
Speaking on the third wave, Melvin Benn - Managing Director of Festival Republic - said: "Reading & Leeds never stands still. We’re always listening to the audience and thinking of how to deliver the value and experiences that they demand."
"This summer, we’re adding a new underground electronic stage at both sites and boosting our late-night offering for those who want to dance into the early hours...
"Our free, overhauled camping options are also really resonating. With nearly half of Leeds weekend ticket holders having already signed up and Reading close behind, our investment in elevating what general camping at UK festivalscan be is paying off."
"To have a weekend with historic headline moments like Chappell Roan, alongside emerging talent and influential voices, I am proud of R&L’s continued development, and I can’t wait to see fans embracing it all."
This Leeds-based family-owned business is famed for supplying pubs, clubs and even ordinary people's homes with classic jukeboxes.
Started up in 1978, Sound Leisure really is a local business like no other, creating and distributing classic jukeboxes to over 40 countries.
This music-machine-making company notes that 75% of the jukeboxes they manufacture and sell throughout the year are bought for everyday homes.
The remaining 25% of orders are for the all-expected hospitality venues like bars, clubs and hotels, with the jukeboxes sometimes bought for company headquarters and retail outlets too.
Although there are other jukebox manufacturers, especially across the pond in the US, Sound Leisure is the only factory in the world that creates jukeboxes to play out across all formats: CD, vinyl and digital.
This jukebox business even runs the world's only 'Custom Shop', which is a design service that offers any music lovers the chance to personalise their pristine player.
So whether you're after a themed jukebox, customisable nameplate or even a bespoke design, this jukebox company's website states: "If you can dream it, we can build it".
One of Sound Leisure's prized products is the music machine inspired Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-themed jukebox which any fan of The Beatles would dream of being its lucky owner.
And there really isn't anything they can't do, as alongside creating classic jukeboxes, the same team even make pinball machines, football tables, LED signs and more.
With CD and vinyl jukeboxes from £5,000 and digital jukeboxes quoted from upwards of £12,000, we're going to need a fair few rainy days to save up our money.
However, you can still marvel at these magnificent music machines without having to dip into your savings, with guided tours starting from just £15.
If you're up for learning a little bit more about music technology or simply after admiring these classic jukeboxes in all their glory, you can find out more about the factory and book your guided tour ticket HERE.
Two giant balloon dog sculptures by acclaimed international artist have landed in Leeds
Clementine Hall
A special Pride activation featuring internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Whatshisname has popped up in Leeds.
Marking 20 years of Leeds Pride and 10 years of Victoria Leeds, the exhibition called ‘Two milestones, One Pop of Pride’ is bringing a playful public art experience to the city.
The exhibition, curated by Castle Fine Art located in the Victoria Quarter, features a collection of artworks and oversized sculptures by the artist, whose distinctive creations have earned a global following.
The striking centrepiece of the activation is two of Whatshisname's iconic POPek Balloon Dog sculptures, one is positioned on the central mosaic in Victoria Quarter and the other outside John Lewis in Victoria Gate.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Victoria Leeds centre director, Jo Coburn, said: "This year presents a unique opportunity to celebrate two important milestones for Leeds. As we mark 10 years of Victoria Leeds and 20 years of Leeds Pride, we wanted to create something memorable that reflects the city's creativity, inclusivity and vibrant cultural scene. Whatshisname's work perfectly captures a sense of joy, individuality and self-expression, making it an ideal way to celebrate Pride with our visitors."
Artist, Whatshisname, said: "Bringing the POPek balloon dogs to such a vibrant and culturally rich city as Leeds is an absolute thrill for me. It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since these playful, cheeky characters first came to life. Over the years, they’ve travelled the world, sparking smiles wherever they go.
“I can’t wait for the people of Leeds to interact with them, feel that sense of nostalgia and humour, and join us in the Victoria Leeds and Leeds Pride celebrations!"
The Whatshisname exhibition will be on display at Victoria Leeds until Monday 27 July.
Danny Jones -
20th June 2025 
