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!
13. Jack Ü (NME Stage)
The duo of Skrillex and Diplo, who played the NME stage in 2016, remains inactive. While Skrillex has seen a massive solo resurgence with his recent Grammy wins, the collaborative project that dominated the 2016 dance scene shows no signs of reviving this year. | Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Coachella
14. HAIM (Main Stage)
The three sisters continue to be festival favourites, with major appearances at Primavera Sound and Fuji Rock scheduled for the summer of 2025 leading into their 2026 plans. Their sets have become legendary for their multi-instrumental virtuosity, a trait they’ve refined significantly since their last Leeds appearance. | Contributed
15. Imagine Dragons (Main Stage)
Now one of the most influential rock bands of the decade, they are rumoured to be planning a massive Wembley Stadium show for later in 2026. After their powerful 2016 Main Stage sub-headline slot, the band has moved firmly into the "stadium-only" tier of global performers. | AFP via Getty Images