Duran Duran believe they deserve to headline Glastonbury: “We shouldn’t be below anybody”
“We’re a headline act.”

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque English countryside, Glastonbury Festival stands as a vibrant testament to the transformative power of music, arts, and community. This iconic event, often referred to simply as ‘Glasto’, has become a cultural institution that transcends mere entertainment, drawing hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts from around the globe.
Glastonbury Festival traces its roots back to 1970 when the visionary Michael Eavis transformed his family’s dairy farm into a platform for creative expression and celebration. What started as a humble gathering of around 1,500 attendees has since evolved into one of the world’s most renowned and influential music festivals, with its fame stretching far beyond the borders of the United Kingdom.
The festival’s allure lies not only in its impressive lineup of musical acts but also in the embracing of diverse art forms, including theatre, circus, poetry, and interactive installations. Walking through the festival grounds is like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of sound and colour, where mainstream and emerging artists alike converge to showcase their talents across multiple stages.
Glastonbury’s musical lineup has always been eclectic, boasting a wide array of genres and catering to a diverse audience. From rock legends like The Rolling Stones and David Bowie to contemporary chart-toppers such as Adele and Arctic Monkeys, the festival consistently delivers unforgettable performances that cater to all musical tastes. Glastonbury also prides itself on giving emerging artists a platform to shine, fostering a spirit of discovery and supporting the next generation of talent.
Yet, Glastonbury is more than just a music festival. It embraces a spirit of social and environmental responsibility, championing causes ranging from human rights to climate change activism. The festival’s ethos of sustainability has led to initiatives like the ban on single-use plastics and the promotion of eco-friendly practices throughout the event. With that, Glastonbury’s commitment to charitable causes is evident in its support for organisations such as Oxfam and WaterAid, raising both awareness and funds for crucial humanitarian work.
Glastonbury Festival is more than a mere event; it is a cultural phenomenon that has woven itself into the fabric of music history. Its enduring legacy is one of artistic exploration, community spirit, and the belief that music has the power to ignite hearts, minds and inspire positive change. As the sun sets over Worthy Farm, Glastonbury Festival continues to shine as a beacon of creativity and unity, forever etching its name in the annals of music and festival culture.
“We’re a headline act.”
Why did they turn it down?
Michael Eavis previously called May a “danger to farming.”
The band deny anti-Semitism.
The investigation remains ongoing.
“I’m looking forward to getting back to working on my car…”
They are currently being investigated by police following their performance in June.
The pair performed two classics from The Cure.
“One element of the political policing intimidation attempt is over.”
They had been banned from one venue in Cologne prior to the removal.