All the people, so many people… will all go hand-in-hand to Wembley Stadium next summer when Blur take to the stage for the first time in eight years.
On July 8, 2023 the London Britpop four-piece are performing a one-off gig at the home of English football, a debut appearance at the stadium and their first headline performance since 2015. It also comes 35 years on from the formation the band, which is made up by vocalist Damon Albarn, guitarist Graham Coxon, bassist Alex James, and drummer Dave Rowntree.
An eclectic bill, fitting of the grandiose occasion, is on offer at Wembley when Blur roll onto the pitch. Opening the night is Jockstrap, the British experimental electronic duo who released their debut album I Love You, Jennifer B to acclaim this year. Before Blur close the night, a pair of Mercury Prize-nominated acts – Self Esteem (Prioritise Pleasure, 2021) first, then Slowthai (Nothing Great About Britain, 2019) – will play to the stadium crowd.
“We really love playing these songs and thought it’s about time we did it again,” said Damon Albarn in a statement, with Graham Coxon adding that: “I’m really looking forward to playing with my Blur brothers again and revisiting all those great songs. Blur live shows are always amazing for me. A nice guitar and an amp turned right up and loads of smiling faces.”
After releasing their debut album, Leisure, in 1991, Blur enjoyed an initial 12-year spell with a treasure trove of hits to their name before splitting in 2003. The band subsequently reformed in 2009 for a lengthy tour that included a headline slot at Glastonbury festival. Their last show on UK soil was at Hyde Park in June 2015.
Alex James said: “There’s always something really special when the four of us get in a room. It’s nice to think that on July 8 that room will be Wembley Stadium.”
Tickets go on sale this Friday (November 18) at 10am, and you can purchase them here.
Dave Rowntree added: “After the chaos of the last few years, it’s great to get back out to play some songs together on a summer’s day in London. Hope to see you there.”
PARKLIFE!