Somerset Sounds festival has just announced its inaugural headliner, and it’s none other than the legendary Simply Red. Because, you know, they weren’t done touring yet. The band will be performing at The Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton on Sunday, 22 August 2027, as part of their Summer Funk ’27 UK and European tour. This will be the grand finale of their summer run, offering fans a final chance to see them live. Again. For now. Nature is healing, and another festival has appeared, featuring a band that refuses to let retirement stick.
The Never-Ending Tour
Simply Red has been around for over 40 years, selling over 60 million records worldwide with hits like “Fairground”, “Something Got Me Started”, and “Holding Back The Years”. Their frontman, Mick Hucknall, says, “We can’t wait to get back out on the road again in summer 2027 to perform at some incredible and historic venues across the UK and Europe. You can expect a set full of Simply Red upbeat hits to get you on your feet having fun in the sun with friends and family.” This is not their first farewell tour, and I’m sure it won’t be their last.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Joining Simply Red on the main stage will be Heather Small, the iconic voice of M People, and Grammy Award-winning soul collective Soul II Soul. Heather Small propelled M People to international stardom with massive 90s anthems like “Moving On Up” and “Search For The Hero”, before launching her celebrated solo career. Soul II Soul, led by Jazzie B, brought worldwide success with chart-topping classics like “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” and “Keep On Movin'”. This lineup is a powerhouse of 80s and 90s music, guaranteed to get the crowd singing along.
A Bold New Chapter
Oli Bartlam, Full Fat 360 founder, said, “Somerset Sounds represents a bold new chapter for the Cooper Associates County Ground, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to launch it with an iconic headliner like Simply Red. Mick Hucknall and the band have delivered some of the most timeless tracks in British music history, making them the perfect act to set the benchmark for what this event is all about.” This new festival is set to become a flagship summer event for the entire South West, creating unforgettable live experiences and driving cultural and economic energy into the community.
Tour Dates and Tickets
The Summer Funk ’27 UK and European tour will kick off in August 2027, with dates across the UK and Europe. Fans can sign up for pre-sale tickets now, and get ready to sing along to all the Simply Red hits. The farewell tour count has officially entered scientific notation, but we’re not complaining. After all, who doesn’t love a good reunion tour? The remaster economy remains undefeated, and we’re just here for the ride. For more information and to sign up for pre-sale tickets, click here. And if you’re feeling nostalgic, you can always subscribe to Classic Pop magazine for more music news and features.
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