Chart topper Diana Vickers brings some X Factor to the Eden Sessions

May 17, 2010

Solo star Diana Vickers has been confirmed as the latest big name to join the Eden Sessions line-up this year.

Diana, whose recent single Once reached number one in the charts, as did her debut album Songs from the Tainted Cherry Tree, will be performing along with Mika on June 27.                                                  

Diana was only 16 when she entered the 2008 series of the X Factor. Her quirky performances and genre-defying song choices, led to Simon Cowell likening her to Marmite, saying that people would either love or hate her singing. Cowell, along with many other people, loved the star from Blackburn and she ended up fourth in the competition overall.

In 2009, Diana landed a deal with RCA Records, and started writing her album. She soon had a host of names collaborating with her, including Ellie Goulding and Nerina Pallot.

Just as the album was due for release, it was delayed unexpectedly, as Diana was offered the lead in the West End revival of Little Voice which she played to sell-out audiences for four months.

Tjarko Wieringa, Eden Sessions Creative Director, said: “We don’t do support acts at Eden and we are really excited to welcome Diana as a special guest. Her unconventional style and undeniable talent will complete what promises to be a fun-filled night.”

Tickets for the Session havealmost sold-out and this exciting addition to the bill is expected to create strong demand forthose remaining.

Children and families are especially welcome to the gig. With extra bands, entertainers and a festival feel in the day time, there will be lots of activities to entertain people of all ages in the run-up to the main event.

Diana Vickers joins a stellar Sessions line-up, which also features Vampire Weekend and Broken Bells (June 24), Jack Johnson and Mojave 3 (June 26 – sold out), Doves and Mumford & Sons (July 2 – sold out), a dance extravaganza with Calvin Harris, Annie Mac, Zero 7 DJ Set and Audio Bullys (July 3), Paolo Nutini and Martha Wainwright (July 13 – sold out and July 14 – selling fast).

The 2010 Sessions will be the ninth season of summer gigs at the Eden Project. Performers in previous years include Oasis, Kasabian, Florence and the Machine, Paul Weller, Hot Chip, Muse, Editors, Snow Patrol, Basement Jaxx, Amy Winehouse, Moby, PJ Harvey and The Verve.