Music
Oliver Heldens & Becky Hill land first UK number 1
Oliver Heldens, born in 1995, is a Dutch deep house producer. He began his professional music career when he signed to Spinnin’ Records last year. His song, ‘Gecko’ – originally an instrumental – caught the attention of Tiësto, and he signed the track to his label Musical Freedom. The track peaked at number 1 on the DMC Buzz Chart and was named ‘Essential New Tune’ by Radio One’s Pete Tong in January this year. For over a month ‘Gecko’ remained #1 in the Beatport Deep House chart, and after six months is still in the Beatport Top 100.
For this UK chart number 1 version of the track, Oliver teamed up with hot new talent Becky Hill, who co-wrote and provided her unmistakable vocals to the topline – the result being ‘Gecko (Overdrive)’. A Parlophone artist, Becky is set to release her own solo material later this year but is still also very much in demand for her writing skills here in the UK and the US. Becky has previously written for chart favourites Rudimental (‘Powerless’) and scored her first UK hit last year with drum n bass anthem Wilkinson’s ‘Afterglow’.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcZMCMI24gs&feature=kp
Wow, I’m so honored, says Oliver Heldens, I was already so happy with the reactions on the original track, but this is amazing! Very proud to be working with the talented Becky Hill, great vocals and great teamwork!
Becky Hill: “I can’t believe it! Made it to number one! Thank you to everyone for all the support & love for Gecko Overdrive, feel very blessed right now”
In January 2014, Heldens launched his Heldeep Mixtape on his official soundcloud page, creating extended mixes which incorporate different genres of electronic dance music including different types of deep house and tech house. The first mixtape included his remix of label mate, Martin Garrix’s ‘Animals’ which was largely well received by the press who described the new version as, ‘leaving us with a completely new anthem with a notable melody left intact’.
Heldens also released a remix of Robin Thicke’s ‘Feel Good’ in 2014 and will be touring the summer festival and night club circuit with appearances at EDC, Amnesia Ibiza, Tomorrowland, Departures Ushuaia Ibiza, Creamfields, and Electric Zoo Festival.
With transatlantic roots and a sound that feels both nostalgic and new, Jonny Morgan is one of the most compelling singer-songwriters to emerge from the UK indie-folk scene. His heartfelt, cinematic style will take centre stage at Henley Festival 2025, as he joins a curated list of RISE musicians lighting up the Thames.
Bridging UK Folk with Americana Depth
Jonny’s story is written in movement. Raised in the UK but deeply inspired by American roots music, his artistry blends ambient textures with emotional storytelling—earning him the 2024 UK Americana Music Association’s ‘Emerging Artist of the Year’ award.
His debut album ‘Good Luck With the Music’ (2023) showcases his distinct ability to create spacious, soul-bearing songs with wide appeal—perfectly balancing the intimate with the epic.
Henley Festival: A New Chapter in a Growing Journey
As one of the standout performers on the RISE Stage this summer, Jonny Morgan will bring his warm stage presence and deeply resonant songs to Henley’s audiences. Expect lyrical honesty, acoustic richness, and moments of shared reflection.
Whether you’re a long-time indie-folk fan or new to the genre, Jonny’s set is sure to connect.
This is music for anyone who’s ever felt caught between worlds—and found beauty in that space.
See Jonny Morgan live at Henley Festival’s RISE Stage, 9–13 July 2025.
Learn more about the full programme at henley-festival.co.uk
Darcy Winter is quietly shaking up the UK’s alternative scene—and this summer, she’ll bring her genre-defying blend of jazz-pop to the RISE Stage at Henley Festival 2025.
Hailed as a “rising star” by Wonderland Magazine, Darcy has spent the past year creating a real community on the London circuit. Her sound is equal parts sultry and bold—lush jazz chords meet heavy basslines and raw, soulful lyrics, giving listeners something both familiar and fresh.
From Bristol Roots to Festival Spotlight
Darcy’s music carries the DNA of her upbringing. With formative years spent in Bristol and a love of jazz passed down from her dad, she’s shaped her own unique blend of sonic influences. Her debut album, released earlier this year, delivers that signature warmth and depth: smoky vocals, intimate lyrics, and a live energy that translates straight into her recordings.
The Henley RISE Stage: A Natural Home
Appearing on Henley Festival’s RISE Stage is a fitting step for Darcy. The platform champions emerging artists with vision, originality, and real talent—something Darcy has in abundance. Her performance promises to be immersive, emotional and unforgettable.
“Classic with an edge” isn’t just a tagline—it’s the backbone of everything she creates.
Expect mood-driven melodies, captivating vocal runs, and a fiercely personal set.
Catch Darcy Winter at Henley Festival’s RISE Stage, 9–13 July 2025.
Find out more about the RISE programme and full line-up at henley-festival.co.uk
From Swansea to the Thames, Leila McKenzie brings bold vocal finesse and cross-genre vibrancy to the Henley Festival’s RISE Stage on Wednesday 9 July. Tipped as the UK’s next breakthrough R&B/pop voice, she’ll blend bold lyrics with fierce energy under the open skies of one of Britain’s most elegant summer festivals.
A Sonic Fusion Rooted in UK Garage, R&B & Pop
McKenzie’s craft defies simple categorization. Born in Wales to Jamaican heritage, her sound marries the tight grooves of UK garage and 2-step with smooth R&B melodies and pop-savvy structure. Henley’s description highlights her “striking vocal energy” and genre-bending style — a sound that has already resonated with listeners across the UK.
Breaking Through: Festival Booking & Social Buzz
Her performance on the RISE Stage isn’t the only sign of her rising star. Announced through her own channels, Leila excitedly shared booking news:
“Only went and booked my first festival slot of the year—catch me on the RISE stage this July at @henleyfestival”
What to Expect at Henley Festival
Attending Henley Festival? Here’s why McKenzie’s set is one to catch:
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Vocal power meets poetic flair: Soulful delivery layered over rhythms steeped in British club culture
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Festival-ready energy: Her announcement reflects a fierce, stage-ready persona
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A start of something special: As one of RISE’s highlighted acts, her presence signals real momentum
Listening In: Where to Discover Leila
Though her debut festival slot is her most public performance yet, McKenzie’s online presence is an inviting entry point: https://linktr.ee/leilamckenzie
Why Her Performance Matters
Henley Festival’s RISE initiative spotlights artists on the verge of wider acclaim, and McKenzie’s inclusion confirms her promise. Her blend of UK sounds with heartfelt expression fits the festival’s elegant yet adventurous ethos — especially in a black-tie, riverside setting.
Expect something warm, personal and musically adventurous: a set that bridges acoustic warmth and club-ready rhythms, ideal for Henley’s eclectic audience.
