Emerging Suffolk artists to perform at Glastonbury

Two emerging artists have been selected to play the UK's biggest festival, Glastonbury.

Native James and Nina Arya, both from Ipswich, will perform at the BBC Introducing area at the event later this month.

Alternative rap artist Native James was astounded when he was told by BBC Radio Suffolk's Angelle Joseph that he had been selected to appear at the festival.

"Me?" he said, adding between laughter, "I will believe it when I see it."

Meanwhile Arya was equally surprised and delighted by the news.

The soulful singer-songwriter said: "I said I'd never go to Glasto until I was playing it, so when Jasmine [Takhar - BBC Introducing on Asian Network presenter] told me I was playing this year I almost cried."

Arya said support from BBC Introducing on Asian Network had seen her perform at Reading & Leeds festivals as well as London's Maida Vale studios.

She said her Glastonbury set would be "an absolute vibe" and added: "I can't wait to share all the new music I've been writing."

Native James, who blends hip-hop, grime, punk, rock, metal and garage in his unique sound, has had a busy 12 months touring the country, also supporting Skindred at a packed out show at the Corn Exchange in Ipswich.

He was nominated for Kerrang's one to watch award, received a Mobo nomination, and released new music, collaborating with the likes of Professor Green.

"If this is true, I want to say thank you to everybody that has locked in and made this journey a reality," he said.

Angelle Joseph, who put forward the acts for consideration for the BBC Introducing stage at the Worthy Farm festival, was congratulatory of both artists.

"I know every serious artist we play on the radio or invite to perform with us has on their bucket list to play Glastonbury Festival one day," she said.

"To be able to help put forward local acts to represent Suffolk and play at one of the greatest festivals we have is an absolute privilege.

"It's a tough job but I'm super proud of them both and they'll be fantastic!"

Highlights of performances will be broadcast on BBC Introducing shows across the UK and will be available on BBC iPlayer and BBC Music's YouTube channel.

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