Reytons' first performance at Wembley Stadium is a 'validation' for the band

The Yorkshire indie rock group The Reytons describe their first performance at Wembley Arena as a long-awaited affirmation of their efforts, after years of confronting skepticism about their potential. The four-member band from Rotherham is set to play at the 12,500-seat London venue on Saturday, aligning with the release of their new EP Roll the Dice.

Lead vocalist Jonny Yerrell recalled early discouragement: When we started out, people insisted wed never make it beyond Yorkshire and shouldnt try to grow any further. He noted the bands major strides since then, including touring internationally and now headlining one of Londons most iconic stages.

This show marks another significant chapter for Yerrell, bassist Lee Holland, guitarist Joe OBrien, and drummer Jamie Todd. In 2023, they reached their first UK number-one album with the self-released Whats Rock And Roll?, driven by sales at a pop-up shop in Sheffields Meadowhall. They later delivered a sold-out hometown performance in front of 20,000 fans at Rotherhams Clifton Park in July 2024.

Earlier this year, the band also celebrated becoming the first unsigned act to headline Sheffields Tramlines Festival. They prepared for their Wembley appearance at Network in Sheffielda venue they said played a crucial role in the bands early development. This is where everything began for us, Yerrell said, remembering their first headline show there in 2017.

OBrien laughed while recalling the nerves of that early performance, admitting he had been so anxious he became sick before going on stage. The whole day was a blur, he added.

The Reytons expect their Wembley night to stir strong emotions. Yerrell acknowledged that revisiting their origins makes the moment even more meaningful: There will definitely be tears. Playing in London feels like a real validation after all the doubts we faced. Holland compared the milestone to reaching a cup final youve already won.

Looking ahead, the band plans to release their fourth album independently next year. Yerrell emphasized their commitment to staying self-managed: We value full creative control. No outside approval, just 100% ownershipif something fails, its on us; if it succeeds, its ours to celebrate.

Author: Connor Blake