Fellow Canadian replaces Neil Young at festival

The organisers of a new American-themed music festival have announced Alanis Morissette will be a new headline act after Neil Young pulled out.

The Canadian singer-songwriter will take centre-stage at the inaugural State Fayre, being held at Hylands Park in Chelmsford on 26-28 June.

Young, 80, cancelled his entire 2026 European tour last week, telling fans he had “decided to take a break”.

Morissette, singer of hits including You Oughta Know, Hand In My Pocket and Ironic, will top the bill on the Saturday. The other main stage headliners are Kings of Leon on Friday and The Lumineers on Sunday.

Neil Young is playing a guitar on stage while wearing a green cap and checkered jacket. He has long hair and is standing next to a microphone.

Neil Young was due to headline the State Fayre festival on 27 June [PA Media]

Event organiser Festival Republic said it was “pleased to share that Alanis Morissette has today been announced as Saturday night headliner for the inaugural State Fayre 2026”.

Festival Republic first announced its new State Fayre festival in November.

The bill spans rock, country and folk music across three stages with other artists including Jack Savoretti, Elvis Costello, The Black Crowes, Kip Moore and Joe Jordan.

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