The Somerset House Summer Series is back in 2025, delivering an exciting mix of musical heavyweights and rising stars to the stunning open-air courtyard of Somerset House.
From 10th to 20th July, this festival promises 11 nights of electrifying performances that will have music lovers buzzing all summer long.
Among the headliners are six-time Grammy winner St. Vincent, British rap icon Giggs, and the beloved Rizzle Kicks, who are back after a lengthy hiatus with a fresh album that’s already turning heads.
Then, prepare for some true musical diversity with acts ranging from the soulful Jacob Banks, indie darlings The Snuts, and Australian folk outfit The Paper Kites, to the genre-blending electronic sounds of Parov Stelar and the smooth, empowering R&B of FLO.
What makes the 2025 Summer Series even more special is that it’s also celebrating Somerset House’s 25th anniversary as a cultural hub. Expect boundary-pushing performances, like a live film score from Akinola Davies Jr and a one-off event featuring Joy Oladokun’s stunning mix of folk and R&B.
The Highlights
- 10th July – Rizzle Kicks: After eight years away, Rizzle Kicks are back with Competition Is For Losers, a new album packed with their signature upbeat hip-hop/pop. The duo’s mix of youthful energy and grown-up themes about love, mental health, and ageing will make for a vibrant opener.
- 11th July – Freya Ridings: Known for her soaring vocals and hauntingly beautiful tracks like ‘Lost Without You,’ Freya is an artist who’s quickly become one of the UK’s brightest stars. Her second album, Blood Orange, shows off a raw, deeply personal side to her already impressive range.
- 12th July – Jacob Banks: One of the most powerful voices in modern soul, Jacob Banks is a force to be reckoned with. His latest album Yonder is a stunning reflection of his diverse musical influences, and his live shows are as captivating as his voice.
- 13th July – Parov Stelar: Electro-swing master Parov Stelar will bring his infectious blend of jazz, house, and big-band vibes to Somerset House. With collaborations with Lady Gaga and Lana Del Rey, his live shows are legendary, mixing the best of both worlds: jazz club elegance and dance party energy.
- 14th July – Akinola Davies Jr: A first for the Summer Series, the BAFTA-nominated filmmaker will premiere his latest film rituals: union black, accompanied by a live score performed by an ensemble of contemporary musicians. A special, thought-provoking event to celebrate Black British culture and life.
- 15th July – Joy Oladokun: Joy’s fifth album Observations From A Crowded Room is a deeply personal journey through her experiences as a queer, Black woman. Her blend of folk, R&B, and psychedelia is not only critically acclaimed but also incredibly relatable.
- 16th July – St. Vincent: One of the most innovative artists of our time, St. Vincent will treat us to her genre-defying mix of art rock, electronic, and experimental pop. If her critically adored albums like Masseduction are any indication, her show will be nothing short of extraordinary.
- 17th July – The Snuts: With their third album Millennials, The Snuts have cemented themselves as one of Scotland’s finest indie exports. Expect anthemic singalongs and high-energy performances from this indie powerhouse.
- 18th July – The Paper Kites: For fans of indie folk, Australia’s The Paper Kites are a must-see. With more than a billion streams under their belt, they’ve become a global sensation, and their performance at Somerset House will be their only UK date of 2025.
- 19th July – FLO: The first-ever BRITs Rising Star winners, FLO are the future of R&B. With sleek production, impeccable harmonies, and songs like ‘Cardboard Box,’ they’re ready to take the stage and show just why they’re one of the most exciting acts in music today.
- 20th July – Giggs & Family: The Peckham-born rapper will close out the festival with a bang. Known for his gritty, influential style, Giggs has redefined UK rap and is sure to put on a powerhouse performance, with a line-up of very special guests to keep the energy high.
Ticket information
Tickets will be available from 6th March, with prices ranging from £27.50 to £55. American Express Cardmembers get access to an exclusive presale from 3rd March, followed by a Somerset House Subscriber presale on 5th March. The general sale kicks off on 6th March here, so don’t miss out!
This is more than just a festival; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a night of unforgettable live music, the Somerset House Summer Series has it all. Mark your calendars and get ready for summer.
Editors’ Picks
- ★★★★☆ Joy Crookes at Islington Assembly Hall | South London songstress makes a ravishing return
Joy Crookes cut a figure of elegance at Islington Assembly Hall, as she reeled off new tracks from her soon-to-be-announced album for BRITs Week’s charitable run of shows in support of War Child. - ‘There’s nowt to hide behind – this is just me, expressing myself as honestly as I can.’ | Antony Szmierek interviewed
From English teacher to BBC 6 Music’s Artist of the Year, Antony Szmierek is redefining spoken-word-infused indie dance. He talks to us about UFOs, happy accidents, and the Great Pyramid of Stockport. - Why Spotify’s AI DJ will NEVER replace real DJs
AI is creeping into the DJ booth, but does Spotify’s AI DJ offer anything new? Or is it just another form of playlist curation in disguise? - ★★★★☆ Glutton For Punishment review | A gothic fever dream of wrath and revelation
Heartworms crafts a debut of gothic grandeur with Glutton For Punishment, a stunning mix of eerie synths, brooding vocals, and spellbinding post-punk anthems. - James Walsh on 25 years of Starsailor: ‘We met when we were 16, we’ve been through it all together’
Starsailor are celebrating 25 years with a special tour. Frontman James Walsh discusses their journey, the realities of staying in a band, and what’s next. - ‘The music chooses us, we don’t choose it.’ | The Lathums interviewed
As they usher in a bold new era, The Lathums reflect on growth, staying true to their roots, and their highly anticipated third album, Matter Does Not Define.
Keep up to date with the best in UK music by following us on Instagram: @whynowworld and on Twitter/X: @whynowworld
- 2025 Summer Series
- Akinola Davies Jr
- FLO
- Freya Ridings
- Giggs
- Jacob Banks
- Joy Oladokun
- Live Music
- London Festivals
- Parov Stelar
- Rizzle Kicks
- Somerset House
- St. Vincent
- The Paper Kites
- The Snuts
