Sugababes and Natasha Bedingfield Join BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend Line-Up

BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend just got a major dose of nostalgia and pop power, as iconic girl group Sugababes and singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield have officially been added to the festival’s line-up. The announcement was made by Radio 1 Breakfast Show host Greg James, confirming them as Anthems headliners for the event, set to take place in Liverpool’s Sefton Park from 23 to 25 May.

This year’s festival already boasts a stellar line-up with headlining acts including Sam Fender, Mumford & Sons, and Tom Grennan. They’ll be joined by a diverse mix of artists such as Myles Smith, Wet Leg, Blossoms, and Lola Young. With the addition of Sugababes and Bedingfield, the festival’s nostalgic energy and pop credentials have skyrocketed.

Sugababes Bring the Buzz

Sugababes — the original trio of Keisha Buchanan, Mutya Buena, and Siobhan Donaghy — are set to bring their timeless pop hits and renewed energy to the Liverpool stage. Since reforming in 2019, the group has been riding a wave of momentum, with standout performances like their widely praised Glastonbury set last year.

Commenting on the announcement, the group said, “We’re buzzing to be heading to Liverpool. We’ve heard amazing things about the energy and the crowds, so we’re excited to be part of it this year. Expect a lot of love, big tunes, and a show to remember.”

The Sugababes originally rose to fame in the early 2000s with a slew of chart-topping hits like Round Round, Push the Button, and Too Lost in You. Their presence at Big Weekend is likely to draw fans both old and new, especially as they continue their UK tour.

Natasha Bedingfield’s Big Return

Also joining the line-up is Natasha Bedingfield, who is set to perform on Friday. The Unwritten singer expressed her excitement, calling the opportunity “a big deal” and adding, “I can’t wait to jump up on stage and sing my heart out with everyone. Let’s hope some inhibitions get released.”

Her timeless hit Unwritten saw a massive resurgence last year after it featured in the 2023 film Anyone But You and became a viral sensation on TikTok. The popularity of the song led to a surprise appearance during Ella Henderson’s Big Weekend set in 2023. Now, Bedingfield will have her own dedicated slot to connect with fans.

Addressing Representation

The inclusion of Sugababes and Natasha Bedingfield also comes amidst discussions about female representation in music festivals. Some fans had previously raised concerns over the lack of female headliners in the earlier line-up announcements. In response, Radio 1 had reassured audiences that the full roster would be “60% female” and acknowledged there’s still work to be done in terms of broader representation in the music industry.

Radio 1 emphasised its ongoing commitment, stating, “Radio 1 will continue to advocate for this on a wider scale.”

New Anthems Stage

This year marks the introduction of the Anthems headliners, a new concept that builds on the Radio 1 Anthems stream that launched on BBC Sounds last November. These acts are chosen for their nostalgic and crowd-pleasing hits that resonate across generations.

Aled Hayden Jones, head of Radio 1, highlighted the importance of this addition, saying, “These acts are a perfect example of how music brings people together. They’ve soundtracked unforgettable moments for our audience and continue to resonate with listeners today whether they’re rediscovering the songs or discovering them for the first time.”

A Festival for All

More than 100,000 fans are expected to attend this year’s Big Weekend, which will feature approximately 100 acts spread across four stages. With a mix of indie rock, pop, alternative, and throwback favourites, the festival promises something for every kind of music lover.

As always, sets from the event will be broadcast live and on demand through BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds, allowing fans around the UK and beyond to soak up the festival vibes.

For fans of British pop and festival culture, the addition of Sugababes and Natasha Bedingfield is not just a nod to the past — it’s a celebration of music that continues to connect generations.

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Sugababes and Natasha Bedingfield to Perform at Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Liverpool

BBC Radio 1 has expanded its Big Weekend 2025 lineup with the exciting addition of Sugababes and Natasha Bedingfield. Radio 1’s Breakfast Show host Greg James revealed that the two will headline the Anthems stage during the festival held in Liverpool’s Sefton Park from 23 to 25 May.

Previously announced main acts include Sam Fender, Tom Grennan, and Mumford & Sons, joined by artists like Myles Smith, Wet Leg, Blossoms, and Lola Young. Now, with Sugababes and Bedingfield joining the roster, anticipation for the event is higher than ever.

Sugababes and Natasha Bedingfield Join BBC Radio 1’s Big

Sugababes Bring Iconic Hits and Energy

The original Sugababes trio—Keisha Buchanan, Mutya Buena, and Siobhan Donaghy—are thrilled to be part of this year’s festivities. Following a successful reunion and a standout Glastonbury performance, they’re ready to win over Liverpool’s crowd. “We’re excited to be part of this year’s Big Weekend,” they shared. “Expect good vibes, classic songs, and a memorable show.”

Known for their early 2000s hits like Push the Button and Round Round, Sugababes have continued to captivate fans since reuniting in 2019.

Natasha Bedingfield Ready for Her Own Spotlight

Singer Natasha Bedingfield will perform on the opening day of the festival. She described the opportunity as a significant one, saying she’s excited to “sing [her] heart out” and connect with the audience. Her hit Unwritten, which gained fresh popularity in 2023 thanks to a film feature and TikTok trends, is likely to be a highlight of her set.

Last year, Bedingfield joined Ella Henderson on stage for a surprise appearance. This time, she’s bringing her own full performance to the stage.

Boosting Female Representation

The new additions come amid conversations around gender representation in festival line-ups. While some fans noted a lack of female headliners initially, Radio 1 responded by stating that the final line-up would be predominantly female and acknowledged the need for broader industry changes.

Radio 1 reaffirmed its commitment to supporting diversity in music and continuing advocacy efforts.

Celebrating Anthems and Crowd Favorites

The Anthems stage is a fresh element introduced this year, tied to the Radio 1 Anthems expansion launched on BBC Sounds. This segment is designed to celebrate tracks that spark nostalgia and joy for listeners of all ages.

Radio 1 head Aled Hayden Jones described the artists as shining examples of how music can connect generations, whether fans are revisiting beloved songs or hearing them anew.

Anticipation Builds

With more than 100,000 attendees expected and around 100 artists performing across four stages, Radio 1’s Big Weekend promises an electric mix of energy, diversity, and chart-topping sounds. All performances will be accessible on BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of early 2000s pop or discovering these artists for the first time, this year’s Big Weekend is shaping up to be one for the books.