SOME OF the biggest names in music are heading to the North-East this summer as the line-up for Hardwick Festival is confirmed.

Nile Rodgers and CHIC, Rag’n’Bone Man, Imelda May and Razorlight are topping the bill at the star-studded festival, which will take place at County Durham’s Hardwick Hall Hotel from August 21 to 22.

Saturday headliners are disco hit-makers Nile Rodgers and CHIC who found success in the late 1970s with a string of hits, including platinum single Le Freak, I Want Your Love and Everybody Dance.

Rodgers went on to win three Grammys and establish himself as one of the most influential names in the music industry, working with stars like Diana Ross, David Bowie, Madonna, Daft Punk and Sam Smith.

The following day, music fans can enjoy a headline performance from award-winning singer-songwriter Rag’n’Bone Man who rose to fame following the release of his first album and hit singles, including Human, Skin and Giant.

Famous for his baritone voice, he has collaborated with huge talent including Pink and Calvin Harris, and North-East music fans will be among the first to hear his new album, Life By Misadventure, live.

Also performing on Saturday is award winning Irish artist Imelda May, whose albums have charted around the world and soulful singer-songwriter Rebecca Ferguson, whose most recent single, Nothing Left But Family, features headliner Nile Rodgers.

Multi-platinum indie rock band Razorlight will take to the stage the following day, best known for their top ten hits America, Golden Touch and In the Morning.

Other artists on Saturday’s line-up include Elvana – who describe themselves as Elvis Fronted Nirvana – Dennis and indie rock band, The Voluntears.

Then, on the second day of the festival, fans can also enjoy comedy-folk group The Lancashire Hotpots, The K’s, funk and soul band Nick Pride and the Pimptones and Weekend Sun.

This year’s event will include five stages of music, with the Courtyard, Treehouse Arena, Soul Tent and Introducing Stage featuring a variety of DJs and artists, including rising stars and North-East acts.

The Courtyard brings the return of Glitterbox on Saturday by popular demand, featuring sets from big names including Dave Lee ZR, Mousse T, Shapeshifters and Melvo Baptiste.

And there will be more DJs taking to the decks on the purpose-built Treehouse stage, including Sandy Rivera, Graeme Park, Greg Wilson, Norman Jay MBE, Monki, Jess Bats, Terry Jones and many more.

John Adamson, who owns Hardwick Hall Hotel, says he is delighted to welcome music fans back to the grounds.

He said: “Hardwick Festival is one of the highlights of our year and we are delighted to be planning its return,” he said.

“We have an incredible line-up this year, with artists from a huge range of genres, so I think there really will be something for everyone.

“After such an uncertain year, we all need something to look forward to and this year’s event really is looking like it will be one of our best yet.”

Tickets for this year’s Hardwick Festival are currently on sale at £55 for one day or £99 for both days plus booking fees.

Concession tickets are available for children and teenagers aged between 13 and 17-years-old.

Camping and glamping options are available for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the festival experience.

The festival chooses a charity to support each year and this year’s nominated charities for the event are the Angel Trust and Solan Connor Fawcett

For more information or to book tickets visit hardwickfestival.co.uk