Capital is a network consisting of twelve independent contemporary hit radio stations in the UK. They broadcast a mix of local and networked programming. Every year, Capital holds two mini-festivals featuring popular performers. They are the winter Jingle Bell Ball at the O2 Arena and the Summertime Ball at Wembley Stadium.
The first Summertime Ball was held in 2009 at the Emirates Stadium. Headlined by Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis and Akon (with Blue and Katy Perry as supporting headliners), it drew about 55,000 attendees, which is quite impressive for an inaugural event.
The Summertime Ball has been held every summer since its inception. Starting in 2012, it has been sponsored by Vodafone, a British multinational communications conglomerate. Past sponsors have been Barclaycard, ASOS.com, and Starbucks.
Every year, the Summertime Ball is headlined by internationally renowned performers. Past headliners have included Rihanna, Usher, Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, Coldplay, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, Robbie Williams, Miley Cyrus, Pharrell Williams, David Guetta, One Direction, Ariana Grande, Avicii, Little Mix, Tinie Tempah, Bruno Mars, Shawn Menders, and Camila Cabello.
However, over the recent years, the festival has been subject to criticism for its “recycled line-up” with very few new acts, as well as the lack of big names on the billing. For example, tickets for the 2018 edition failed to sell out until 5 days after their release.
A portion of profit from ticket sales is donated to Global’s Make Some Noise (formerly known as Help a Capital Child and Help a London Child), the official charity of Global that supports small charities across the country, which help children and their families living with illness, disability or lack of opportunity.
Photo: Jasmin Curtis
