Stevie Wonder could end up headlining next year’s Glastonbury.
The soul singing icon, 74, closed the festival in 2010 and reports in March said talks to bring him back to one of its top slots collapsed after the performer pulled the plug on a deal to appear. Wonder’s 2010 performance remains one of the most-watched sets in the festival’s history.
But The Sun is now reporting Glastonbury chief Emily Eavis, 45, is working to get the singer “signed, sealed and delivered” to its famous Pyramid Stage in 2025. The Pyramid Stage, Glastonbury’s most iconic performance space, has hosted legendary acts since its construction in 1971.
Wonder the talk of UK Awards Show
The publication added talk of a return for Wonder was rife at the Rolling Stone UK Awards at the Roundhouse in Camden, London, on Thursday, Nov. 28. The Roundhouse, a historic venue that has hosted countless music legends, provided the perfect backdrop for such discussions.
Insiders apparently said his team is “confident” he will be able to make it to the festival next summer. The festival, held at Worthy Farm in Somerset, has become one of the world’s most prestigious music events since its inception in 1970.
“Emily was so close to securing Stevie last year,” a source told The Sun. “The deal was basically done and his name was put on to the draft posters. When it fell apart because of his schedule, it was a nightmare for everyone involved – and Stevie was gutted.” The booking process for Glastonbury headliners typically begins years in advance.
“There is now the chance he could come back next summer to headline the Pyramid Stage. Talks are ongoing,” the source continued. The Pyramid Stage area can accommodate up to 100,000 spectators during peak performances.
A separate insider told The Sun at the time the paper reported Wonder had allegedly pulled out of a comeback to the festival after his 2010 appearance: “The mood behind the scenes is fraught, to say the least. Eavis is desperate to pull off another top line-up, but right now, everywhere she turns is hit with issues. She has been co-organizing the festival since 2000, following in the footsteps of her father, Michael Eavis.
“She’s doing everything she can to deliver for music lovers and still hopes Stevie and his team can be won over, but it’s not looking good.” Glastonbury’s booking team typically confirms headliners several months before the festival.
Stevie‘s return in 2025 would be the first time the singer has performed there after he played the 40th anniversary celebrations of Glastonbury. Wonder’s career spans over six decades, with 25 Grammy Awards and over 100 million records sold worldwide.
Wonder has worked the Pyramid stage before
Fans still gush over his set, which saw more than 100,000 revelers swarming to the Pyramid stage area to watch him sing a string of hits. His 2010 performance included classics like “Superstition,” “Signed, Sealed, Delivered,” and “I Just Called to Say I Love You.”
The potential booking comes as Glastonbury continues to blend legendary performers with contemporary artists. The festival has a history of creating memorable moments by bringing back iconic performers, with past returns including Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie.
If confirmed, Wonder would join an elite group of performers who have headlined Glastonbury multiple times. His potential return represents the festival’s commitment to celebrating music legends while maintaining its status as a premier global music event.
The festival’s ability to secure such high-profile acts has contributed to its reputation as one of the world’s most sought-after music events, with tickets typically selling out within minutes of release. Glastonbury’s impact on the music industry extends beyond performances, generating an estimated £100 million annually for the local economy.
