The music scene in Leeds is set to receive a huge boost as plans to turn Roundhay Park into the biggest UK outdoor venue have been approved.
Licensing chiefs have given the go-ahead to increase the capacity of the park from 19,000 to 69,999 for no more than two weekends of events, which a spokesperson for Leeds City Council hailed as an “important boost to the local economy” while putting the city on the map nationally and internationally.
But Roundhay Park has been on the map nationally and internationally before: a number of historic gigs have taken place at the location, many of which compiled into ‘Live in Leeds’ titled live albums, with the likes of Michael Jackson (twice), Madonna, and more having performed at Roundhay Park over the years.
The increase will hopefully lead to more renowned international acts coming to West Yorkshire - but what acts would we like to see perform at Roundhay Park when the first series of shows is announced? We’ve delved into the archives to look at who has performed there before that are still on the touring circuit, along with some popular names who have either performed at Leeds Festival, or have a history with the city.
Here are our 15 picks who we’d like to see play at the new Roundhay Park
1. The Rolling Stones
Roundhay Park has played host to some huge concerts previously, including The Rolling Stones back in 1982. The concert was the final show of their European Tour, which was in support of their album Tattoo You. It drew a massive crowd of over 80,000 people and was a huge success. | George Rose/Getty Images
2. Madonna
Madonna's 1987 show at Roundhay Park was her first-ever major UK tour date, bringing her global spectacle to Leeds. She filled the park with over 73,000 fans, showcasing her theatrical stage presence and a string of chart-topping hits. | Dave Hogan/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
3. Drake
While hip-hop has had a presence at Leeds Festival, a standalone, stadium-sized show from an artist like Drake would be a major milestone for Roundhay Park. His global appeal, coupled with his high-energy and elaborate live shows, would attract a massive and diverse crowd. | Carmen Mandato/Getty Images
4. Robbie Williams
Robbie Williams already has a history of playing huge shows in Leeds, including two memorable performances at Roundhay Park in 2006. His live shows are a blend of pop spectacle and cheeky banter, creating a party atmosphere that is perfect for a huge outdoor crowd. With his immense popularity and a string of sing-along hits, Robbie is a safe bet for a sold-out show that would fill the park with his adoring fans. | Alex Grimm/Getty Images
5. Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran's two shows at Roundhay Park in 2019 were a monumental success, drawing 160,000 people over two nights. The sheer scale of the crowds he commands makes him an ideal artist for the expanded venue. He has a unique ability to captivate a stadium with just a guitar and a loop pedal, and his return would be a sure-fire hit. | Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
6. The Who
The Who's connection to Leeds is legendary, thanks to their famous 1970 concert at the University of Leeds' Refectory, which became the iconic live album, 'Live at Leeds.' While they have played the city since, a massive show at Roundhay Park would be a fitting tribute to that history. It would be a celebration of rock music's past and a nod to a band whose live performance in this city is considered one of the greatest of all time. | BRIAN BABINEAU