On June 28, 2025, Gary Numan, a pioneer of synth-pop and industrial rock, made his long-awaited debut at the Glastonbury Festival, performing on the Park Stage. This appearance marked a significant milestone in his nearly five-decade career, coinciding with the 45th anniversaries of his seminal albums “Replicas” and “The Pleasure Principle.”
Numan’s hour-long set commenced at 6:00 PM, delivering a performance that was both a retrospective of his influential past and a showcase of his evolving musical journey. The setlist featured a blend of classic hits and newer material, including “Halo,” “The Chosen,” “Metal,” “M.E.,” “Pure,” “Cars,” “Haunted,” “Down in the Park,” “Nothing’s What It Seems,” “My Name Is Ruin,” “A Prayer for the Unborn,” and concluded with the iconic “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?”
Staying true to his distinctive style, Numan appeared in his signature gothic attire, eschewing typical festival banter for a more intense, immersive performance. His stage presence was marked by dynamic movements and a focus on the music’s atmospheric depth. Notably, he was joined on stage by his teenage daughters, Raven and Persia, who contributed vocals, adding a personal dimension to the show.
Critics offered mixed reviews of the performance. Some appreciated Numan’s commitment to his artistic vision, while others noted that the heavier, rock-infused renditions of his classic synth-pop tracks diverged from their original sound. Additionally, technical issues, such as under-mixed vocals, were mentioned as detracting factors.
Despite these critiques, Numan’s Glastonbury debut was a testament to his enduring influence and adaptability in the music industry. His willingness to reinterpret his work and involve his family in the performance underscored a career characterized by innovation and personal expression.
In the broader context of Glastonbury 2025, Numan’s performance added a layer of depth to a festival lineup that included a diverse array of artists across genres. His set not only celebrated his past achievements but also reaffirmed his relevance in the contemporary music scene.
For those interested in viewing the performance, Gary Numan’s Glastonbury set was broadcast on BBC Four and is available for streaming on BBC iPlayer.
As Numan continues his tour, including upcoming shows in the United States, his Glastonbury debut stands as a significant chapter in a career that has continually pushed the boundaries of electronic and industrial music.