Several musicians who are children of well-known celebrities are scheduled to perform at the Reading and Leeds Festivals this weekend. The lineup includes Cruz Beckham, Violet Grohl, Gene Gallagher, and Moses Martin, whose parents are famous figures in music and film.
Their participation has drawn criticism from some festival-goers who view them as having an unfair advantage due to their famous surnames, a phenomenon often referred to as the "nepo baby" effect.
Performers and Their Lineages
Cruz Beckham, 21, the youngest son of David and Victoria Beckham, will perform with his band, The Breakers, at Reading on Saturday and Leeds on Sunday. His band recently released their debut EP, "Wear & Tear," which Beckham described as capturing "a life lived" with its highs and lows.
Moses Martin, 20, son of Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow, is set to perform with his indie-pop/rock band, People I've Met. The band will play on The Canopy stage at Reading on Friday and Leeds on Saturday. Their debut EP, "Bunny," was released in the spring, and their single "Promise" was released through Interscope Records.
Gene Gallagher, 25, son of Liam Gallagher, will perform with his grunge/indie rock band, Villanelle, on The Canopy stage at Reading on Friday. Villanelle, which features Gallagher on vocals and guitar, released their debut single "Hinge" in September 2025. The band has cited influences ranging from Black Sabbath to Nirvana and Arctic Monkeys and gained exposure by supporting Gene's father on tour.
Violet Grohl, 20, the eldest daughter of Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl and Jordyn Blum, is scheduled to perform at Leeds on Friday and Reading on Sunday. Grohl released her debut studio album, "Be Sweet To Me," in June. Her father has stated he had no involvement in her music career or record deal.
Festival Headliners and Other Acts
The festivals will be headlined by Charli XCX, Chase And Status, Dave, Florence And The Machine, Fontaines DC, and RAYE. Other notable acts performing include Skepta, Sombr, Role Model, Jade, Josh Baker, Kneecap, Kettama, Chris Stussy (Reading only), Geese, Skye Newman, Adéla, and Keo.
Despite the controversy surrounding the presence of celebrity offspring, these artists are aiming to prove their musical merit through their performances.