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
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
9. Beyoncé
Beyoncé is a global phenomenon whose tours are meticulously choreographed spectacles that sell out instantly. A show at Roundhay Park would be a monumental booking, a testament to the venue's new status. It would be a high-profile, high-production event that would draw fans from all over the country and cement the park's reputation as a world-class destination for live music. | Getty Images
10. Sven Väth
Leeds has a deep-rooted history with techno, thanks to legendary clubs like The Orbit in Morley. Booking an international techno legend like Sven Väth would be a nod to that heritage. His long, immersive DJ sets are a journey for the audience, and he would draw a knowledgeable and devoted fanbase, showing that the new Roundhay Park isn't just about mainstream acts. | Michael Tullberg/Getty Images
11. U2
U2 has a strong connection to Roundhay Park, having performed there twice before. Their first show in 1993, as part of the innovative Zoo TV Tour, was a technological marvel, and they returned in 1997 with the even grander PopMart Tour. Both shows highlighted their ability to create massive, immersive live experiences. | Dave Hogan/Getty Images
12. Chappell Roan
A gig from Chappell Roan would be a bold and forward-thinking booking. Her popularity has exploded, thanks to her theatrical pop music and recent appearance at Leeds Festival. She brings a fresh, vibrant energy that would be perfect for the younger demographic. | Hope Holmes Photo: Hope Holmes