Rick Astley Excited for Camp Bestival

Pop icon Rick Astley expressed his joy at performing at Camp Bestival, where he headlined the first day of the festival at Weston Park, Shropshire. In an interview with BBC Radio Shropshire, Astley highlighted the family-friendly environment of the festival, noting its appeal to attendees of all ages. He emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere, stating, “I do think it’s great that you can come to a festival and be totally chilled about it.” Reflecting on his enduring career, Astley admitted he never anticipated still headlining festivals nearly four decades after his rise to fame. “I’m just glad I’m in a field playing,” he remarked, underscoring his appreciation for the opportunity to perform regardless of the setting. The 58-year-old artist also discussed the evolution of the music industry, particularly how festivals have become more inclusive over the years. Astley acknowledged the impact of streaming on music distribution, noting that while it has made it easier for established artists to reach audiences, it poses challenges for new acts trying to gain visibility. Despite these challenges, he expressed contentment with his current position in the industry and the nostalgia associated with performing his classic hits. “I’m loving every second of it and I’m grateful for it,” he concluded. Looking ahead, Paloma Faith is scheduled to headline Camp Bestival on Saturday, with the dance music group Faithless set to close the event on Sunday.