Rapper Stormzy is set to make history when he headlines Glastonbury and will be the first black British solo act to do so.
The "Vossi Bop" performer reflected on his journey ahead of his performance tonight and shared a touching message about what the opportunity means to him, adding that he is the second youngest solo act "to ever headline Glastonbury."
I an first black British artist to headline Glastonbury. At 25 years old I am the second youngest solo act to ever headline Glastonbury, the youngest being a 24 year old David Bowie in 1971. I’m overwhelmed with emotions, this is the most surreal feeling I’ve ever experienced.
He told followers how his "entire life has lead to this moment," before going on to thank God and festival organisers Emily and Mike Eavis for the opportunity of a lifetime.
I feel my entire life has lead to this moment. Can’t explain or fathom what this all is but I am 100% sure this is all God and his favour. Giving him all the glory. Thank you to Emily & Mike Eavis for believing in me I can’t wait to see you and hug you both thank you so much ❤️
In a statement put out last year announcing their headline acts, co-organiser Emily Eavis described the south London MC as "one of the most exciting British artists to come along in years".
Eavis added that after seeing him perform in 2017 she knew that "next time he had to come back and headline the Pyramid." This will be Stormzy’s third Glastonbury appearance.
Fellow music artists paid tribute to Stormzy and acknowledged what he had achieved despite "barriers" and "distractions".
The odds on this when you consider the amount of barriers & distractions involved with young people from tough backgrounds. Incredible when you really think about it. https://t.co/pfsFdcVVug
Others described the moment as an "achievement."
What an achievement 🙏🏾 prayers for tonight we are all rooting for you bro. 👑 https://t.co/qgW4jm0QVv
Singer and past collaborator MNEK wished him congratulations.
congrats man 💙 https://t.co/pklRi6AhFS
While Brit nominated singer turned daytime host Jamelia shared her pride.
@stormzy So Proud Of You 🖤🖤🖤
Fans also reminisced on the times they've seen the performer deliver a great show.
@stormzy Saw you at wireless last year and that was one of the best performances I’ve seen life. You’re going to kill Glastonbury. ✌🏽
And some people were quick to correct the star with valuable music history when they pointed out that Glasto has been headlined by a black British artist in the past.
Pretty sure Skin would disagree. Or has Skunk Anansie headlining Glasto somehow been taken out of the equation? https://t.co/Fm9SFX25ld
People pointed out that Skin, lead singer of 90s rock band Skunk Anansie appeared as a headline act in 1999.
The singer, born Deborah Anne Dyer, like Stormzy is from south London and has been the bands front woman and lead vocalists since the group emerged in 1994. Following an eight-year hiatus, the group reformed in 2009 and continue to perform.
Stormzy's set will be broadcast live on BBC Two and BBC Radio 1Xtra.
Tune into BBC 2 tomorrow night @ 21:50 to see me HEADLINE GLASTONBURY 2019. Flipping heck lol...to God be the glory 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿