Skunk Anansie Correct Stormzy’s Claim He’s First Black British Artist To Headline Glastonbury

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A member of Skunk Anansie has responded to Stormzy’s claim he was the first black British artist to headline Glastonbury by pointing out they did it 20 years ago. 

The Big For Your Boots singer appeared at the renowned musical festival yesterday (June 28), where he was praised for his moving and epic set which opened with songs Where Do You Know Me From and Cold and also featured a duet of Blinded By Your Grace Part 1 with Coldplay’s Chris Martin.

Stormzy took to Twitter to express his gratitude at being able to perform and listed a few facts about how he compared to other Glastonbury performers.

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The singer wrote:

I an [sic] 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.

However, while Stormzy did make history for being the first black British solo artist to perform at the event, he was wrong in claiming he was the first black British artist.

British rock band Skunk Anansie, led by front woman Skin, took to Instagram to point out his mistake, saying they ‘beat’ him to it two decades ago.

Skunk Anansie performed on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury in 1999, alongside other headliners R.E.M. and Manic Street Preachers.

They shared a picture of the singer’s tweet, and wrote:

Sorry Stormzy but we beat you to it in 1999! 20 years ago!

Skin also went on to refute claims Beyonce was the first black woman to play at Glastonbury, adding:

And while we’re on topic, I was the first black Woman too! @beyonce

After having corrected his mistake, the band went on to show their support for Stormzy:

Wishing you an awesome nite tho, Kill it! You’re amazing and we’re all very proud.

During his set, the 25-year-old singer spoke about artists who had ‘paved the way’ for him and also named numerous grime artists he is now supporting.

While Skunk Anansie take the crown for being the first black British artist at Glastonbury, Stormzy can still proudly hold the title of being the first black British solo artist, meaning they’ve both made history!

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Emily Brown

Emily Brown first began delivering important news stories aged just 13, when she launched her career with a paper round. She graduated with a BA Hons in English Language in the Media from Lancaster University, and went on to become a freelance writer and blogger. Emily contributed to The Sunday Times Travel Magazine and Student Problems before becoming a journalist at UNILAD, where she works on breaking news as well as longer form features.