As we begin to enter the hay fever period, festival season comes in tandem to produce an eye rubbing few months. This year sees the UK rap and grime scene dominate the large majority of festivals, none more so than Manchester’s Parklife.
Heaton Park will once again play host to the festival, commencing on Saturday 11th June and ending on Sunday 12th June. 2016 sees the highly acclaimed weekender bring the likes of Stormzy, Skepta, Yungen, Section Boyz, Kano, Bugzy Malone and many more to the north, in an mouthwatering line-up.
Memories cast back to last year, which saw me celebrate my birthday for a second successive year at Parklife. Having many friends at Manchester university, it’s an event that seems to have become customary for myself.
A big factor that continues to drag me back is the variety of music on offer throughout the weekend. Being a fan of many genres of music, it helps to cater for all in attendance. However, one thing that lacked was the limitation of UK rap and grime acts, something that has been rectified this year.
The ability to attract big names has always been a standout for the festival, with the likes of Nas, Fatboy Slim, Wu Tang Clan and Snoop Dogg gracing the stage in previous years. This is set to continue with The Chemical Brothers, Major Lazer and Ice Cube set to headline next month.
As a man of UK rap and grime, the invasion by the scene on this year’s line-up is a joy to see. Showcasing the impact, it’s more than likely to add a new and improved dimension to the festival. With some of the best open-air stages on the continent, it’s set to bring it onto another level in front of a huge crowd – something I look forward to witnessing.
It’s safe to say that Parklife is set to be bigger and better than ever this summer, and I for one can’t wait for the second week of June. With stages, new talent, food, drink, and even fair ground attractions in abundance, it’s set to be an unforgettable two days. Don’t miss out.
Artists to look out for at Parklife: Skepta, Stormzy, Kano, Lethal Bizzle, Kurupt FM, Section Boyz, Bugzy Malone, Preditah, Mista Jam, Charlie Sloth, WSTRN, Novelist, Logan Sama, Elf Kid, Yungen, Lady Leshurr, Rude Kid & CasIsDead.
Weekend, Saturday, Sunday and VIP tickets are all still available on the Parklife website. Be sure to grab yours quickly to avoid missing out on a weekend full of good music.
Words – @JaikBFenton