The 2016 event served as a pivotal crossroads for the music industry, capturing a moment when indie-rock stalwarts shared the stage with a new wave of electronic and hip-hop titans who were just beginning to claim their dominance.
While some acts used their slots to catapult into global superstardom, others have navigated breakups, hiatuses, and triumphant returns in the ten years that have followed.
As we look back through the lens of 2026 (and continue speculating who else could be added this summer), the 2016 poster reads like a time capsule of modern musical history, and in this retrospective, we track the journeys of fifteen standout performers, exploring the massive arena tours, special anniversaries, and surprising career shifts that have defined a decade of growth since they last graced the stages of Leeds.
Were you at Leeds Festival 2016 and remember seeing one of these acts? Share your fond memories either by leaving a comment on the Yorkshire Evening Post Facebook page, or by dropping an email if you’re feeling shy!
7. Twenty One Pilots (Main Stage)
Now global superstars, the duo will headline London's All Points East 2026 this August with a UK-exclusive show. Their latest album, Breach, was released in September 2025. | Getty Images
8. The Vaccines (Main Stage)
Celebrating a major milestone, they are embarking on the What Did You Expect Tour in March 2026 to perform their iconic debut album in full for its 15th anniversary. This nostalgic run will see the band return to many of the intimate venues that first helped them climb the charts back in 2011. | The Vaccines
9. Two Door Cinema Club (NME Stage)
One of the hardest-working bands in indie, they have a massive 2026 festival run confirmed, including TRNSMT, Y Not, and the Isle of Wight Festival. Their relentless touring schedule proves their 2016 NME Stage energy hasn't faded, as they remain a top-tier draw for summer crowds. | Getty Images
10. Courteeners (Main Stage)
Fresh off multiple festival headlines, the band has announced a massive 50,000-capacity homecoming show at Manchester’s Wythenshawe Park for August 2026. The gig follows their tradition of massive North West celebrations, cementing their status as one of the most enduring indie acts since their 2016 Leeds Main Stage slot. | Provided
11. CHVRCHES (Main Stage)
The Scottish trio is returning to the stage in March 2026 for a special performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London as part of the Teenage Cancer Trust series. This highly anticipated return marks one of their most significant live appearances since going on hiatus to explore solo projects. | Craig McConnell / Catching Light Photography
12. A$AP Rocky (Main Stage)
A decade after his main stage set, Rocky is releasing his long-awaited fourth album, Don't Be Dumb, and will embark on a major UK arena tour in August and September 2026. The tour is expected to be a high-fashion, high-concept visual experience that reflects his evolution into a global creative icon. | Mike Lawrie/Getty Images