**Former X-Factor Star Entertains Oasis Fans as Cardiff Prepares for Historic Reunion Concert**
The streets of Cardiff were awash with excitement on Friday as fans descended on the city for the eagerly anticipated Oasis reunion at the Principality Stadium. Amidst the growing throngs, concertgoers witnessed an unexpected treat: reality TV favourite and musician Jake Quickenden offered an impromptu acoustic performance of classic Oasis hits, much to the crowd’s delight.
Quickenden, best known for his stints on “The X Factor” (2012), “I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” (2014 runner-up), and as a champion of “Dancing On Ice” in 2018, was seen strumming a guitar and leading singalongs outside the iconic home of Welsh rugby. Popular tracks such as “Don’t Look Back In Anger” and “Wonderwall” rang out as fans added their voices to his renditions, creating a festive atmosphere before the gates even opened.
The 36-year-old was in Cardiff presenting for the ITV daytime programme “This Morning”, but took time to mingle with fans and soak up the pre-concert excitement. His musical interlude swiftly became a highlight for many awaiting Liam and Noel Gallagher’s historic reunion, the first Oasis performance in 16 years.
Fans from as far afield as Colombia and Germany travelled to the Welsh capital, emphasising the global pull of the event. As visitors from across continents queued in expectation, they were greeted with vibrant street performances and camaraderie amongst the crowd—an atmosphere that echoed the 90s heyday of the iconic Britpop band.
Despite concerns about the volatile Welsh weather, the Met Office provided reassurance with a promising forecast. The roof of the Principality Stadium was scheduled to remain closed, ensuring the show could continue uninterrupted even if rain made an appearance. According to meteorologists, Cardiff could expect early sunshine before cloud cover set in, with temperatures climbing up to 21°C.
In anticipation of the tens of thousands expected, Cardiff’s transport authorities initiated a comprehensive crowd management plan. Barriers channelled fans outside the central train station, while both Transport for Wales and Great Western Railway rolled out additional and extended trains to cope with increased passenger demand. However, some engineering works were expected to affect certain services, so event-goers were advised to allow extra time for their journeys and to consult up-to-date travel information.
A full closure of nearby roads commenced at midday to accommodate the safety and smooth entry of the crowds, with stadium doors opening from 5pm. The evening’s entertainment kicked off early, with Liverpudlian band Cast scheduled as the first support act at 6pm, followed by Richard Ashcroft at 7pm. Oasis, undeniably the night’s main draw, were slated to appear at 8.15pm, with the event curfew set for 10.30pm. Organisers anticipated traffic to calm down and roads to re-open by midnight, following a night likely etched in local music history.
While many had queued for hours to secure their place at the highly-anticipated concert, Jake Quickenden’s spontaneous street gig added an extra note of joy. Many attendees expressed their surprise and gratitude at the unique experience—sharing clips on social media and praising the former reality TV contestant’s vocals and showmanship.
The event is expected to serve not only as a nostalgic reunion for longstanding Oasis fans but also as a celebration of the band’s enduring influence on British music. As the city braces itself for an evening to remember, Quickenden’s pre-show performance stands as a testament to the power of live music in uniting strangers, even before the headliners have taken to the stage.
Those wanting to stay updated as the evening unfolds can access live coverage and updates online. With a packed programme, a star-studded line-up, and even buskers joining in the festivities, Cardiff seems set to host one of its most memorable musical nights in recent history.