Music
You got the love for giant Classic Ibiza track-poll
Classic Ibiza’s Facebook followers were given the amazing opportunity over Easter to vote for their favourite dance tracks to be added to the set at this summer’s concert at Hatfield House on Saturday 31 August. Held in association with San Miguel, Classic Ibiza sees the 32-piece Urban Soul Orchestra, DJ Goldierocks and critically acclaimed live vocalists bring to life dance music’s most iconic tracks.
Earlier this year we asked our Facebook followers to put forward their favourite tracks to form a shortlist of 20. The shortlist went live on Classic Ibiza’s Facebook page (@ClassicIbiza) on 18 April for a week. The most popular 5 tracks, which alone polled over 3,000 votes, being added to the set are:
No.1 : “You Got the Love,” The Source ft. Candi Staton
https://youtu.be/gKboX01fTxc
No.2: “Giant,” Calvin Harris & Rag’n’Bone Man
No.3 “Everybody’s Free,” Rozalla
Other tracks include “Sweet Harmony,” Liquid; and “When Love Takes Over,” David Guetta ft. Kelly Rowland. To mark the sad passing of The Prodigy’s Keith Flint, one of dance music’s most iconic frontmen, a special performance of “Firestarter” has also been added to the programme.
These tracks join a set of nearly 3 hours, which celebrates dance music’s rich archive. Other tracks being performed on the evening include: “Insomnia,” Faithless; “Born Slippy,” Underworld; and “Sandstorm,” Darude.
Stephen Hussey, founder and conductor of USO, comments:
“This year’s set is stronger than ever, with some great tunes being added to a line-up of truly iconic house tracks. It’s great to see the likes of, ‘You Got the Love’ and ‘Giant,’ which bookend dance music’s history, coming out top. I guess it illustrates the diverse nature of the Classic Ibiza audience.
“We were inundated with votes this year and while there were 5 clear winners, don’t be too disheartened if your track didn’t get in. We will be performing 11 new tracks this summer and will be freshening up the set-list again next year, so I am sure that some of them will make an appearance in the future.”
Classic Ibiza starts with a chill-out set where people can enjoy their picnics and a drink, or dance along as the sun fades. Then DJ Goldierocks will turn things up in the interval, getting the crowd into the mood before the Urban Soul Orchestra and vocalists return to the stage to bring a vibrant atmosphere to the summer evening. One classic dance track will follow another, as the grounds of Hatfield House turn into a magical, alfresco celebration, with accompanying lasers and Balearic beats.
Urban Soul Orchestra (USO) seamlessly integrate the two worlds of classical and electronic dance music. They have worked for 25 years at the top of the UK music industry, specialising in recording sessions for top artists, major corporate events and exclusive private parties. Founded by Stephen Hussey and co-directed by Natasha Beckman, they have worked alongside the very best in the dance music industry, including Nightmares On Wax, Groove Armada, Ultra Naté, Octave One, Full Intention, Soul II Soul, Robert Miles, Sonique and Spiller.
USO has released “Classic Ibiza”, an album of iconic dance anthems, which features many of the tracks being played on the night and is available on CD and all major music websites and apps. For more information and to book USO for private and corporate events both in the UK and abroad see: www.urbansoulorchestra.co.uk
Classic Ibiza 2018 at Blickling, Norfolk. Photo credit Simon Finlay Photography.
Goldierocks (AKA Sam Hall) has played exclusive sets for Madonna, Giorgio Armani, Richard Branson and Jade Jagger. Her weekly global radio show ‘The Selector’ goes out to 44 countries and with 4.3 million dedicated weekly listeners, she was named by The Evening Standard as “the most influential woman in Pop”. 2016 saw Sam become the ‘face of dance music’ for Capital FM presenting The Capital Weekender with Ministry of Sound, she also launched her own weekly independent, specialist mix show ‘Firefly Mix Series’ on Pioneer DJ Radio and became the new co-host for Bestival FM.
In addition to the amazing tunes and artists, what really sets Classic Ibiza apart is that it is a concert for all age groups. Set in the delightful outdoor setting of Hatfield House, with easy access to transport links, concert goers can bring their own food and drink, or take advantage of numerous stalls selling high-quality street-food and refreshments. Car-parking is free (for coaches and cars), so everyone is assured of a fantastic evening.
Tickets and information: www.classicibiza.co.uk
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.
