Jayahadadream Glastonbury. This interview starts a new series in which I interview past winners of Glastonbury’s Emerging Talent Competition.
The competition has been going on for many years and is open to new UK and Ireland acts from any musical genre. Winners get to perform on one of the main stages at Glastonbury Festival.
They also receive a £5,000 Talent Development prize from PRS Foundation to help take their songwriting and performing to the next level. Two runners-up will also each be awarded a £2,500 PRS Foundation Talent Development prize.
Jayahadadream won the competition in 2024 and I caught up with her a few weeks ago.
Congratulations on winning Glastonbury’s Emerging Talent Competition. How did you find out about it?
Thank you so much! I found out about it through social media, I think I was just scrolling Instagram in January and came across it through PRS’s account.
What was it like playing at Glastonbury 2024?
Honestly a dream come true, amazing! I still can’t believe it really happened. It was such a full circle moment bringing my band that I have been working with since 2019 to the Woodsies Stage. To have been chosen by the Eavis family to perform was surreal, Being on that stage was epic, and the crowd’s energy was incredible.
Had you been to Glastonbury before?
No I have never been! The atmosphere was like nothing I had seen before. It’s one of those things where to get it you really have to be there! The festival spirit, the sense of community, the sound systems! Yeah, I loved it. So glad I got to experience it for the first time.
What tips would you give to people attending Glastonbury for the first time?
- Download the Glastonbury app – the app is so helpful, it’s got a map and schedule and the map works really well – while you’re there you can navigate where you need to go easily.
- Walking boots – even though it was sunny when I went, my walking boots were a lifesaver. They were super comfy for walking around. If you’re the type who wants to see everything like me, make sure you have sturdy footwear!
- Pop-up tent – Using a pop-up tent made life easy, I highly recommend it! Saves more time for enjoying the festival!
- Visit the Tolpuddle firepit near the Woodsies Stage – this spot became one of my favourites, so tranquil to be near the fire each night!
- Embrace the spirit: Glasto is all about community and good vibes, enjoy every moment!
What plans do you have for 2025?
My plan for 2025 is to release a bigger body of work and go on tour at the end of the year. I want to continue to build momentum off the back of 2024 as it has been a huge year for me. There are also a few collaborations in the works that I’m really excited about.
Where can people see you play and hear your music?
My music is on all streaming platforms if you search JayaHadADream: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Zr6I0quVpqoCSTs6TRCpo
Also on Bandcamp, you can buy my music and order my vinyl: https://jayahadadream.bandcamp.com
You can also come to hear me live at a show: https://linktr.ee/jayahadadream
Thanks Jaya. We look forward to hearing your new music next year.
The Glastonbury Festival Guidebook Is Now Available
Hey there, Glasto Newbie!
So, you’ve scored tickets to Glastonbury? Congrats! Now, let’s make sure your first time is more epic than a Pyramid Stage headliner. My Glastonbury Festival Guidebook is like your cool best friend who’s been there, done that, and is ready to guide you through the festival’s wonders. Download it below or get it on Amazon here: Glastonbury Festival Guidebook
Download below:
