JADE Criticizes The 1975’s Matty Healy for Sidestepping Politics at Glastonbury 2025

Pop star JADE challenges The 1975’s Matty Healy, saying pop artists can’t ignore politics on big stages like Glastonbury.

Speaking Up on Stage: JADE’s Call for Political Honesty in Pop Music

There’s something electric about Glastonbury—the way the crowd pulses with anticipation, the iconic Pyramid Stage glowing under the open sky, and artists pouring their hearts out in front of thousands. This year, the vibes sparked a bit of a debate when JADE, the former Little Mix star turned solo artist, took aim at The 1975’s frontman, Matty Healy, for avoiding politics during their headline set.

JADE didn’t mince words in an interview, reflecting on Matty’s comments where he expressed a desire to stay away from politics in their music legacy: “I don’t think you can be a pop artist and cover your eyes,” she said, flashing a bold reminder that music and culture are inevitably intertwined with the world’s pressing issues.

Matty Healy’s Glastonbury Set: Love, Friendship, or Politics?

The 1975 took the Pyramid Stage by storm on Friday night, delivering a set packed with their signature bangers and moments of raw emotion. Toward the close, Matty told the crowd, “Use your platform, that’s what they say right? We don’t want our legacy to be one of politics, but to be one of love and friendship.” His words hinted at a wish to focus on unity rather than diving into the “loads of politics out there.”

It’s a stance that’s easy to admire—who doesn’t want love to win? But JADE pushed back hard. “It’s very easy for someone who’s white and straight and very privileged to say that,” she remarked, her tone dripping with the kind of tough love only someone who's been there can offer. “Good for you, hun!”

JADE’s Own Powerful Glastonbury Moment

While Matty chose a softer route, JADE grabbed the mic to speak her truth loud and clear on the Woodsies Stage the very next day. Introduced by none other than Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa, she didn’t shy away from controversy or confrontation.

During her set, JADE led the crowd in chants of “fuck you” targeting a wide array of issues: Reform UK, welfare cuts, transphobia, silencing protest, arms sales, and even genocide. It was a fearless moment that reminded everyone why pop stars have such a powerful platform—and how important it is to use it.

Backstage, she shared her excitement with a sense of awe: “I still feel like I’m having an out-of-body experience after my performance. I’ve not come down from it yet. I’ve always dreamed of doing Glastonbury, and to be here with my own music is great. It’s nice to know that the writing I’ve been doing for myself is what got me here.”

Standing Up for the LGBTQ+ and Trans Communities

JADE’s passion isn’t limited to the fields of Glastonbury. Earlier this year at London’s Mighty Hoopla festival, she put the spotlight on the LGBTQ+ community with a fierce set that didn’t hesitate to call out anti-trans sentiment, specifically naming J.K. Rowling for her controversial views.

Reflecting on these bold choices, JADE said, “I think I’ve always been a bit mouthy when it comes to things that are important. I’m not afraid to speak up and stand up, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. I’m well aware that I have a lot of fans from that community, but also I feel like it’s important, now more than ever, to stand particularly with the trans community. We are seeing a lot of transphobia, a lot of propaganda and a lot of negative press, so I just wanted to make sure that they know that I will say it with my chest and I’ll stand up for them.”

The Power of Protest in Pop

JADE’s message is clear: pop stars wield influence, and with that comes responsibility. She embraces the spotlight to encourage her fans and fellow artists alike to raise their voices. “That was important for me at Mighty Hoopla, and it’s been fun because at every show, especially with ‘Fuck You For Now,’ I get to shout out different people or say different things,” she explained. “Today with Glastonbury, I shouted out what we’re seeing right now with the genocide going on in Palestine. I feel like it’s important now, more than ever, for pop artists to show that it’s okay to speak out and educate yourself. Don’t be afraid to protest.”

What’s Next for JADE?

JADE is also gearing up to release her debut solo album, THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY!, dropping September 12. The album promises exciting collaborations including RAYE, Mike Sabath, Lostboy, Cirkut, and Pablo Bowman, marking a bold new chapter in her career.

She’ll hit the road soon, opening for Chappell Roan at two major outdoor shows in Edinburgh this month and performing at RAYE’s All Points East lineup in London next weekend. It’s an exciting time for fans ready to see this fearless artist shine even brighter.

Meanwhile, The 1975 Keep the Spotlight

The 1975’s Glastonbury set earned a solid four-star review, with highlights like the haunting “Robbers” and the crowd-pleasing “The Sound.” Their performance was a reminder of their musical chops and showmanship, even as Matty Healy pointedly sidestepped politics.

Fans were buzzing after the show, speculating about a new album tease when the word “Dogs” flashed on stage as the band exited. Whether this signals fresh music or just a cryptic nod, The 1975 continue to keep their audience hooked.

What Do You Think?

Pop stars have always walked a tightrope between art and activism. JADE’s bold stance contrasts with Matty Healy’s more cautious approach — but which is the right move for artists today? Should pop music be a platform for politics, or a place to escape it?

FAQs

• How did JADE respond to Matty Healy’s comments about politics?
  JADE expressed disappointment, saying pop artists can’t ignore politics and criticized Healy’s desire to avoid political issues during their Glastonbury set.
• What issues did JADE address in her Glastonbury 2025 performance?
  She led chants protesting Reform UK, welfare cuts, transphobia, silencing protest, arms sales, and genocide in Palestine.
• What is JADE’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights?
  JADE is a vocal supporter, particularly standing up for the trans community and fighting against transphobia and negative propaganda.
• When is JADE’s debut solo album releasing?
  THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY! is set for release on September 12, featuring various high-profile collaborations.
• Did The 1975 hint at new music during their Glastonbury set?
  Yes, fans noticed the word “Dogs” flashing on stage as The 1975 finished their set, sparking speculation about a new album.

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