A new Live Aid-style concert is being planned to raise millions for military veterans, with events potentially running in both the UK and the US. The ambitious project could see performers come together for a ten-hour musical extravaganza celebrating those who have served their countries.
Targeting 2028 or 2029
The first concert is being targeted for 2028 or 2029, with Wembley Stadium earmarked as a potential venue. Unlike the original Live Aid, which brought the world together for one day in 1985, the organisers hope to turn their event into an annual fixture.
Organisers are hoping to attract some of the biggest names in music, although no artists have yet been confirmed. The inspiration is Sir Bob Geldof's legendary Live Aid concerts, which saw Queen, David Bowie, U2, Elton John and Paul McCartney perform at Wembley Stadium while Madonna, Mick Jagger and Led Zeppelin were among the stars appearing in Philadelphia.
Drawing on Live Aid's legacy
An estimated 1.9 billion people across 150 countries watched the July 1985 spectacle, which raised more than £100 million for famine relief in Africa. Queen's electrifying 20-minute performance, led by Freddie Mercury, has since gone down as one of the greatest moments in rock history.
Now the team behind the proposed veterans spectacular hopes to harness that same star power to support former servicemen and women. The concerts would raise money for causes including mental health treatment, rehabilitation, housing, employment support and help for veterans' families.
Planning stages and key figures
But the project remains in the planning stages, with organisers still seeking a financial guarantee needed to get the first event off the ground. The initiative is being spearheaded by retired Lieutenant General Andrew Harrison, a decorated former Army officer, alongside a team of music industry figures.
Among those involved is Eurovision-winning producer Denis Ingoldsby - and former manager of girlband Eternal - who is using his industry contacts to help attract major artists. Ingoldsby has also been supporting band K2, founded by ex-para John Gunn, who is also involved in the concert planning. Ingoldsby is backing their song The Soldier Song for consideration as a potential British Eurovision entry next year.
Organisers believe demand could rival Glastonbury, with tickets potentially selling out within minutes. They also hope to keep prices affordable and operate a ballot system.
