Glastonbury Festival has hosted countless legendary performances on its iconic Pyramid Stage. Ranking the top five is no small task, influenced by cultural impact, performance quality, audience reception, and legacy.
However, some sets stand out as defining moments in both festival and music history more than others. Below are five of the best Pyramid Stage performances, in no particular order, that are widely regarded as the standouts.
David Bowie – 2000
David Bowie’s Sunday night headlining set in 2000 is often hailed as the greatest Glastonbury performance of all time. Returning after decades away from the festival, Bowie delivered a flawless greatest-hits set that spanned his career, from “Changes” to “Heroes.”
His charisma, vocals, and emotional connection with the crowd were mesmerising. The performance gained further legendary status after it was finally broadcasted in full in 2020.
Beyoncé – 2011
Beyoncé’s headlining slot marked the first time a solo Black female artist topped the Pyramid Stage bill. Facing initial scepticism from rock purists, she delivered a powerhouse performance that silenced critics and captivated hundreds of thousands by mixing solo hits with Destiny’s Child classics.
Beyoncé redefined what a Glastonbury headliner could be and her set raised the bar for pop performances at the festival.
Radiohead – 1997
In torrential rain and mud, Radiohead delivered a performance that transformed their reputation. Touring behind OK Computer, they played a set filled with brooding anthems like “Paranoid Android” and “Karma Police.”
Despite technical difficulties, Thom Yorke and the band turned adversity into magic. It’s frequently cited as the moment Radiohead proved themselves as one of the greatest bands of their generation, and referred to as one of the best all time performances at Glastonbury.
Stormzy – 2019
Stormzy’s blockbuster 2019 set was groundbreaking. As the first Black British solo artist to headline Glastonbury, and at just 25 years old, he used the platform to blend grime, activism, and raw emotion.
Wearing a stab-proof vest designed by Banksy, Stormzy’s performance was both a celebration of Black British culture and a political statement. It was a bold, genre-defining moment that showcased the evolution of Glastonbury.
Paul McCartney – 2022
At 80 years old, Paul McCartney’s headline set was a triumphant celebration of music history. With surprise guests like Dave Grohl and Bruce Springsteen, and a setlist that included Beatles, Wings, and solo classics, McCartney offered a masterclass in showmanship.
The sight of seeing a Beatle perform “Hey Jude” with a massive crowd was unforgettable and different generations found something in common while all standing on the same soil.
