Glastonbury Legends Slot: every artist that's played coveted festival gig

Let's go, Glastonbury!

On Sunday June 30, country queen Shania Twain became the latest artist to play Glastonbury's iconic Pyramid Stage in the festival's legends slot. It's a gig which, as the name suggests, is reserved for only the most accomplished and adored musicians.

Just who launched this prestigious slot is up for debate. Some claim Johnny Cash kicked things off in 1994, while Tom Jones reckons his 1992 performance is its true origin.

Tony Bennett was the first official 'Sunday legend,' though; bringing in a huge crowd for his 1998 Pyramid Stage set.

Now, we thought we'd take a look back at every legends slot performer ever. How many do you remember?

MORE: See where every Shania Twain song and album has charted in the UK

Every Glastonbury Legends Slot performer ever:

1998 - Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett officially launched the Legends Slot with his performance in 1998. Playing tribute to the late jazz superstar last year, Glastonbury Festival's Emily Eavis wrote: "It was an extremely wet, muddy year and he arrived impeccably dressed. He played an incredible set, we were all entranced, he was so gracious and charming on stage."

1999 - Al Green

Al Green's performance was a soulful triumph in 2009. The legendary singer mesmerised with hits like Let's Stay Together, showcasing those oh-so-smooth vocals and magnetic stage presence.

2000 - Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson's 2010 performance was a display of country music mastery, his inimitable voice and guitar skills shining as he serenaded the crowd with classics like On the Road Again.

2002 - Isaac Hayes

With that deep, velvety voice and smooth persona, Isaac Hayes enchanted the audience with hits including Shaft and Walk On By back in 2002.

Oh, and he played 1998 Number 1 Chocolate Salty Balls (P.S. I Love You); the track he recorded as South Park character Chef. Iconic scenes.

2004 - James Brown

A dynamic showcase of funk and soul, James Brown's 2004 Legends Slot set had Worthy Farm on its feet; the icon receiving an overwhelmingly-positive reception as he performed hits like I Got You (I Feel Good).

2005 - Brian Wilson

Brian Wilson's 2005 set proved a timeless journey through the Beach Boys' back catalogue and solo smashes.

Also, Little Saint Nick in June absolutely shouldn't have worked. Kind of popped off, though.

2007 - Dame Shirley Bassey

One of the wettest weekends in Glastonbury history (Dame Shirley Bassey rocked a pair of wellies with her gown) wasn't enough to dampen festival-goers spirits, as the Welsh veteran became the first-ever female artist to play the Sunday Legends Slot.

2008 - Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond's 2008 performance truly reaffirmed the New York native's legendary status. Forever In Blue Jeans echoing across Worthy Farm? Iconic stuff.

2009 - Tom Jones

Tom Jones's 2009 Legends Slot was a timeless spectacle, blending that signature charisma with soulful renditions of classics like It's Not Unusual and Delilah.

2010 - Ray Davies

The Kinks' frontman Ray Davies took to the Pyramid Stage at 2010's festival, performing the likes of Lola, Johnny Thunder and Waterloo Sunset.

2011 - Paul Simon

From Bridge Over Troubled Water to Graceland, Paul Simon's 2011 set was a true crowd-pleaser.

2013 - Kenny Rogers

Country legend Kenny Rogers delivered some of his most-loved hits, including Ruby (Don't Take Your Love To Town), Coward Of The County and Lucille.

2014 - Dolly Parton

A decade ago, country superstar Dolly Parton wowed an audience of over 180,000 people with 9 To 5, Jolene and many more timeless hits.

2015 - Lionel Richie

Lionel Richie's stage presence, soulful vocals and infectious energy made for a lively sing-a-long in 2015; the star performing the likes of Hello and All Night Long.

2016 - Jeff Lynne's ELO

Jeff Lynne's ELO delivered a spectacular performance in 2016, filled with classics including Mr. Blue Sky and Livin' Thing.

2017 - Barry Gibb

As the sole surviving member of the Bee Gees, Barry Gibb played timeless hits like Stayin' Alive and How Deep Is Your Love in his nostalgic set.

2019 - Kylie Minogue

Kylie Minogue's Glastonbury Legends slot performance in 2019 was a triumphant return, marking 14 years since her battle with breast cancer prevented her from headlining. Her dazzling set featured hits like Can't Get You Out of My Head and Spinning Around, all with her energy and iconic pop charm.

2022 - Diana Ross

Diana Ross's performance in 2022 marked her debut at the festival. The singer delivered a vibrant set filled with classics, including Ain't No Mountain High Enough and I'm Coming Out.

2023 - Yusef/Cat Stevens

Yusuf/Cat Stevens' Glastonbury legends slot performance in 2015 proved one of the festival's most heartfelt and reflective moments, serenading the crowd with timeless hits like Wild World and Father and Son.

2024 - Shania Twain

Shania's upcoming 2024 set's sure to show off the icon's country-pop prowess. If she doesn't open with a 'Let's go, Glastonbury!', we'll be having words.

Who do you want to see play the iconic legends slot? Let us know over on X.

Article images: Getty.