The music scene in Leeds is set to receive a huge boost as plans to turn Roundhay Park into the biggest UK outdoor venue have been approved.
Licensing chiefs have given the go-ahead to increase the capacity of the park from 19,000 to 69,999 for no more than two weekends of events, which a spokesperson for Leeds City Council hailed as an “important boost to the local economy” while putting the city on the map nationally and internationally.
But Roundhay Park has been on the map nationally and internationally before: a number of historic gigs have taken place at the location, many of which compiled into ‘Live in Leeds’ titled live albums, with the likes of Michael Jackson (twice), Madonna, and more having performed at Roundhay Park over the years.
The increase will hopefully lead to more renowned international acts coming to West Yorkshire - but what acts would we like to see perform at Roundhay Park when the first series of shows is announced? We’ve delved into the archives to look at who has performed there before that are still on the touring circuit, along with some popular names who have either performed at Leeds Festival, or have a history with the city.
Here are our 15 picks who we’d like to see play at the new Roundhay Park
5. Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran's two shows at Roundhay Park in 2019 were a monumental success, drawing 160,000 people over two nights. The sheer scale of the crowds he commands makes him an ideal artist for the expanded venue. He has a unique ability to captivate a stadium with just a guitar and a loop pedal, and his return would be a sure-fire hit. | Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
6. The Who
The Who's connection to Leeds is legendary, thanks to their famous 1970 concert at the University of Leeds' Refectory, which became the iconic live album, 'Live at Leeds.' While they have played the city since, a massive show at Roundhay Park would be a fitting tribute to that history. It would be a celebration of rock music's past and a nod to a band whose live performance in this city is considered one of the greatest of all time. | BRIAN BABINEAU
7. Kaiser Chiefs
The Kaiser Chiefs' story is intertwined with Leeds. They started out playing tiny venues like the Brudenell Social Club before going on to headline huge festivals and even their hometown stadium, Elland Road. A gig at the new Roundhay Park would be a new pinnacle for the band, marking their journey from local heroes to national treasures. | Frank Reid
8. Oasis
A show in Leeds, a city with a huge Britpop heritage, is a must-have for any major Oasis tour. Roundhay Park, with its massive capacity, would be the perfect venue to host a high-demand show, and it would be a historic moment for the band and its fans. | AFP STRINGER/AFP via Getty Images