FITZROY HOLT: CELEBRATING A DECADE OF THIS FEELING AT ISLE OF WIGHT

Long synonymous with iconic performances, cultural milestones, and live music carnival that is the Isle of Wight Festival, there is one stage within it that’s unstoppable for new artists, This Feeling.

A driving force on the UK live scene in recent years, This Feeling has played an integral role in launching new artists. Hailed for its relentless championing of new music, the brand has discovered hundreds of artists, introduced them to contacts, and seen them take to some of the country’s most exciting stages. In its 10th year of performances on the Isle of Wight Festival bill, This Feeling will once more bring the talent, hard work, and pure artistry of the artists that make up the new UK music scene

A stand-out of this year is solo artist Fitzroy Holt, whose name will be recognisable to those within the indie scene. Following stints with The Surrenders in the past, Fitzroy Holt has spent years honing his style that gives his tracks an unmistakable sense of identity and purpose. Northern Exposure managed to catch up with him just before his Isle of Wight set to chat with him about his history, This Feeling’s influence, and the future.

Hello, so how does it feel to be returning to the This Feeling stage this summer?

It’s an absolute honour. This Feeling has built something that truly champions emerging bands and artists, and to be part of their stage during a milestone year feels amazing!

How would you say This Feeling has influenced your journey as a band/artist?

This Feeling has been a real force of belief behind us. They have created space for bands like mine to grow without compromise. It’s the community, the support, the exposure. They saw something in us early on and helped us reach people we might not have otherwise. You can’t buy that kind of backing.

Can you describe your journey for anyone who may not be familiar, who you are, where you come from, and what you stand for?

I’ve been a musician for the best part of my life now. I come from a small working-class town in the West Midlands and have been releasing records for about four years now under my current alias, Fitzroy Holt.

I think I chose the alternative name for myself so I could explore themes and ideas not linked to my identity as Connor with greater ease. I feel like I’m only just getting started exploring the things I believe in, but I guess freedom to be whoever you want to be is my slogan.

Have you been to the Isle of Wight Festival before? If so, what memories stand out? If not, what are you most looking forward to experiencing?

It’s my third time playing, actually, and I’m buzzing. The history of Isle of Wight Festival is a proper bit of music culture. We’re excited to be part of that energy, to connect with a crowd.

What does playing This Feeling mean for your music and your connection with audiences?

This Feeling stages have a way of amplifying the message. It’s intimate but fierce, and the audiences are there to listen. It’s a thrill to meet everyone from the audience and backstage, tbh!

Which bands or artists are you most excited to see at the festival this year?

There are a few we’ve got circled Justin Timberlake, English Teacher and we have some friends playing too, which is always special. It’s a brilliant chance to catch new acts and an even better excuse for a pint.

How does preparing for a festival set differ from getting ready for a regular gig?

A festival set is like a hit of adrenaline. There’s less time, more energy, and a crowd that might not know you yet, so you hit hard and make every second count. You’ve got to grab them by the heart from song one.

What’s coming up next for you after the festival new music, tours, or any major plans on the horizon?

I’ve got an album on the way that’s been in the works for a while. After Isle of Wight, we’re finishing that off, hitting more cities, and keeping that momentum alive. There are a few surprise collaborations coming too…

Finally, which other band are you most looking forward to watching and why?

I’m dying to see Spangled! Urgent and unapologetic. That’s what it’s all about.

This Feeling continues to be a home for boundary-pushing artists, and Fitzroy Holt is one of those talents shaping the future of UK music. With a clear vision, a dedication to storytelling through his songs, and the backing of platforms like This Feeling, he plays at 17.05 on Saturday the 21st of June.