Prepare for an electrifying celebration as the renowned 51st Festival (formerly known as 51st State) returns in all its glory to the heart of London at Copthall Playing Fields on Saturday, 5th August 2023.
Recognised for its unmatched dedication to classic and emerging dance music, the festival stands as a beacon of diversity and inclusion, seamlessly weaving together nostalgic legends with cutting-edge beats and infectious good-time vibes. Across an awe-inspiring spectrum of genres, from Soulful, Classic, Tech, Afro, Garage, Disco, to RnB, Dancehall, Soca, Amapiano, Drum & Bass, and more, 51st Festival honors the rich tapestry of dance music's heritage.
Today, the festival reveals a lineup of over 100 dance music pioneers, legends, and party-starters across six mesmerising stages, promising a day of hedonistic joy like no other. Leading the charge on Groove Odyssey's main stage are the iconic Louie Vega and David Morales, joining forces as the Kings of House NYC, while the legendary Body & Soul trio conjure up soulful and spiritual grooves. Adding to the stellar ensemble are French sensation Dimitri from Paris and the genre-defying DJ Spen, blending jazz, disco, gospel, and spiritual house. Setting the stage ablaze with her magnetic presence is American soul singer Barbara Tucker.
As the sun sets on the horizon, the celebrated Rampage sound system takes centre stage, featuring the likes of reggae superstar General Levy, soul maestro Omar, and the soulful serenades of Terri Walker. Keeping the energy ablaze are The Heatwave, respected DJ Robbo Ranx, and the trailblazing Firin Squad, illuminating London's underground scene for over a decade.
Backto95, the esteemed old-school house and garage promoters, present an all-star cast that includes Grammy-winning legend Todd Edwards, the revered Heartless Crew, and the Godfathers of UK Garage, Grant Nelson and Norris ‘Da Boss’ Windross. The lineup further boasts Matt 'Jam' Lamont and the dynamic Kiss FM resident Majestic. Brace for a surprise guest billed as the UK’s number 1 Garage DJ, accompanied by a host of seasoned MCs and vocalists, creating an unforgettable experience.
In the realm of tech-house excellence, La Fiesta's stage proudly showcases Grammy-winning New York house master Roger Sanchez and the Grammy-nominated DJ/Producer Todd Terry. The lineup also features the vibrant Jess Bays, captivating ravers with her magnetic selections, and the dynamic Polish duo, Catz 'n Dogz, guaranteed to ignite the dancefloor.
Roger Sanchez expresses his excitement, stating, "I always love playing 51st Festival! The crowd is a proper House Music devoted audience that’s truly up for it, and the line-ups are always stellar - I can’t wait to play the next one!"
The Dolly Rockers, masters of vibrant beats and melodies, curate a stage adorned with the legendary Norman Jay and disco/funk and house master Dr Packer, hailing all the way from Perth, Australia. Joining the ensemble are British icon Brandon Block and the esteemed RatPack, DJ Lipmaster Mark & MC Evenson Allen, with a classic house set.
Ringing in the funky, soulful house charge on House FM’s VIP stage is Chicago house producer extraordinaire, Mike Dunn. Sharing the spotlight are international house sensation DJ Pioneer, the indomitable vocal powerhouse Robert Owens, and house legends Supa D & Coldsteps. The soulful connoisseur Omotosho and the mesmerising R&B vocalist and dancer Angie B complete this exceptional lineup.
The immersive experience extends beyond the music, with delectable food vendors and easy accessibility via tube, train, bus, or car. Copthall Playing Fields sets the stage for a day of unparalleled festivities.
Dr Packer eagerly awaits his performance, saying, "Thoroughly looking forward to playing at 51st Festival this summer. I've got so much love for the UK, and I have really missed the crowd. What an amazing lineup too!"
Prepare for an extraordinary day of dance music revelry at 51st Festival 2023, a grand symphony celebrating the heartbeat of London's vibrant music scene. Secure your spot and join the unyielding rhythm that will echo through the heart of the city.
- Tickets are still on sale - but on the last wave - so don't miss out if you're around London way
