VIP
Guide
7 unique (and exclusive) VIP experiences
The world of VIP has become more weird and wonderful than ever, offering increasingly unique experiences. Here are the very best
When going to see your favourite artist or band in the flesh nowadays, there are numerous ways of making that experience extra special. Upgrading to a VIP ticket is no doubt the first option on the list that you should tick.
Be it better views of the stage, private boujee bars where you don’t have to battle other thirsty gig-goers for a beverage, or a luxurious lack of queueing time getting into the venue – look at all the ways you can elevate your festival and concert experience with VIP options here. After all, why shouldn’t you treat yourself?
It’s not just the typical VIP treatment that’s available to you, however. The world of VIP has become more weird and wonderful than ever, offering increasingly unique (and exclusive) experiences.
A backstage tour? A selfie with your music idol? A chance to ask the boyband of your dreams the questions you’ve had on the tip of your tongue since you had a poster of them plastered to the wall of your teenage bedroom? Here’s a roundup of the more unique VIP packages available to concert-going music lovers this summer:
Film a TikTok with Jason Derulo
For those TikTok-ers that are struggling to increase their followers, how’s this for boosting your chances of going viral: recording a TikTok video with none other than Jason Derulo. No stranger to TikTok himself, the R&B heavyweight won’t be ‘Ridin’ Solo’ as he features alongside yourself.
Sit in on the soundcheck for The Kooks
‘Ooh La’ what a treat this is, getting a sneak preview of The Kooks’ setlist by getting a chance to sit in whilst they Brighton boys soundcheck. Given it’s one of, if not the, biggest tour the indie heroes have lineup in their 20-year history, you’ll not only get to hear the band practice but also gawp at the insides of these prestigious venues with barely a soul around. If The Kooks aren’t your cuppa tea, Bastille, Heaven 17, Cast and The Feeling are also opening up their soundchecks for loyal fans.
Hear an exclusive song from Inspiral Carpets
Going the extra mile for the soundcheck sit in, exclusive experiences don’t come quite as exclusive as this. Inspiral Carpets won’t only give you a sneak peek of the main show during their soundcheck, but they’ll also perform three songs, one of which won’t feature on the setlist throughout the tour. You’ll get to step into Noel Gallagher’s shoes – who was once a roadie for the band long before he formed Oasis – just without the hassle of having to lug around the band’s equipment.
Take a guided backstage tour with The Smashing Pumpkins
You’ll (ava) adore this peak behind the curtain – before The Smashing Pumpkins perform to thousands at London’s Gunnersbury Park, there’s a chance to take a guided backstage tour to see where the proverbial magic happens. Peer into the band’s pre-performance methodology, be it the quirks on their rider or see where the headliners rituals take place before they rock out. When the guided backstage tour comes to its conclusion, there’s no chance you’ll be feeling either melancholic or infinitely sad when The Smashing Pumpkins take to the stage.
Have a Q&A with JLS
Any burning questions you’ve had simmering away for years that you’ve wanted to ask X-Factor runners up Aston Merrygold, Oritsé Williams, Marvin Humes and JB Gill? Well, now’s your chance to put it to Britain’s smoothest boy band, as JLS are holding a Q&A session for VIP ticket holders ahead of their massive UK tour this November. Just remember, they’re all taken now so maybe keep the “marry me?” questions to your fantasies. If JLS don’t tickle your pickle, Scottish indie titans Travis and fast-rising pop star Mimi Webb are holding similar Q&A opportunities for their dedicated fans.
Take a selfie with Kool & The Gang
Wanna be in their gang? Now’s your chance to be the coolest new gang member as Kool & The Gang are offering up to take a selfie with the band as part of their VIP experiences package throughout their UK tour. Celebrate good times with a one-off photo for your personal collection.
Join a listening party with GoldFord
GoldFord has swooned the world over with his emotive, classic sounding brand of soulful pop, stacking up an illustrious list of superstar fans in SZA, Sam Smith, Noah Kahan and James Blake. Well, imagine this: a personal, private opportunity to hear the singer-songwriter’s newest material before anybody else. Before each show on his 2025 UK tour, you’ll not only get a sneak preview of GoldFord’s new music, but will also get the chance to meet him in person. Consider yourself swooned.
Find all of the unique VIP upgrades here
