ADÉLA plays ‘Boys’ during Reading 2026 set
When ADÉLA took the stage at the Reading 2026 festival, she didn’t just deliver a set; she delivered a masterclass in pop perfection. Amidst the vibrant energy of the bank holiday bash, she introduced a brand new track, Boys, setting the tone for a performance that was as polished as it was wonderfully rebellious.
The new song immediately resonated with the audience, and ADÉLA didn’t shy away from sharing the heart of the track. She explained that the song is a reflection of a very relatable experience, capturing the playful, sometimes exasperating reality of clubbing: “The next song is a new one. It’s basically about being at the club with your girls and getting bothered by boys.”
But the message behind the music was just the opening act. Earlier in the set, ADÉLA opened up about her origins, revealing that she is originally from Slovakia. This background fuels her unique perspective on her art, making her connection to the festival even more profound.
She shared a powerful ambition, noting that while she always dreamed of being a pop star, she felt disconnected from that goal. It was this feeling of distance that motivated her to create her music, deciding to write the song for “all the bad bitches from small places.”
The atmosphere she generated was electric. Praising the audience, she felt the palpable energy of the crowd, recognizing the shared celebration of finishing their GCSEs. It was this genuine connection that transformed the performance into a truly memorable moment.
ADÉLA’s performance was a symphony of talent, but it was her presence that truly captured attention. NME praised her set as delivering “pop perfection,” noting that her playfulness and talent made her the full package. The setlist, which included tracks like ‘Ain’t in LA’ and ‘Sex On The Beat’, showcased a masterful blend of catchy hooks and heartfelt vulnerability.
As the evening progressed, ADÉLA injected a theatrical flair into her performance. Midway through, she darted off the stage, returning in a stunning costume that perfectly balanced the pop sensibility with classical drama. A white tutu and ballet shoes laced onto her feet added an unexpected, elegant edge to the performance, lending a breathtaking new dimension to her stage presence.
This blend of dance and poetry perfectly encapsulated her artistic ethos. In an interview, ADÉLA spoke about her philosophy, stating that she seeks to challenge perceptions, saying, “I’m here to make people more comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
Ultimately, ADÉLA’s set was a testament to authentic artistry—a celebration of diverse experiences, raw emotion, and dazzling talent, proving that being truly human in pop music is where the most interesting stories begin.
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