Christopher BarrettThe renowned promoter behind the Isle of Wight Festival, John Giddings was named Festival Promoter of the Year at the FestForums awards in Santa Barbara.
The award comes shortly after the Isle of Wight Festival was named Best Large Festival at the UK Music Festival Awards in December.
Giddings, whose keynote interview at the AAA Conference & Awards in December was filmed for the Backstage Podcast series, is not only responsible for the festival but works as an international touring consultant with Live Nation.
This year has seen him set up ten sold-out shows at The O2 by R&B star Usher on behalf of Live Nation. Among the many artists whose tours he has promoted in the past include David Bowie, U2, The Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, Madonna and N*E*R*D.
Giddings was presented with the award by Arthur Fogel (pictured left), president of Live Nation’s global touring division. Giddings said, “To have this presented by Arthur – someone I have immense respect for – makes it all the more meaningful.
“When we brought the Isle of Wight Festival back in 2002, it was about reviving a legacy started by Ray Foulk, honouring the past while creating something new. This recognition isn’t just for me – it’s for the Isle of Wight itself, the entire team, the artists, and, most importantly, the festival-goers who make it all possible.”
2024 saw the launch of the Experience 25 exhibition at The O2 in London. The installation celebrated 25 years of the festival’s history and saw Ray Foulk – the festival’s original promoter – attend its opening night.