Radio 1 Big Weekend Draws 100,000 Fans Across Four Liverpool Stages

BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in Liverpool attracted around 100,000 music fans over three days, featuring about 100 performances across multiple stages. Tom Grennan headlined Friday, notably joined by Mel C, who was booed for wearing a Liverpool football shirt, while Grennan wore an Everton jersey, highlighting a local football rivalry. Saturday's headline act, Sam Fender, performed hits like 'Seventeen Going Under' despite technical difficulties and expressed unusual nervousness during his set, which ended with fireworks and confetti. Ed Sheeran surprised fans with a secret performance on the New Music Stage, though limited capacity prevented some from attending. Other notable acts included Myles Smith, Jade Thirwall, Sugababes, and Aitch and AJ Tracey, who emphasized camaraderie despite their football rivalries. The festival was praised for its lively atmosphere, energetic performances, and the mix of established and rising UK music talent.