Soul II Soul and Björn Again join Hogmanay

The R‘n’B group and the internationally-acclaimed ABBA tribute act will perform alongside headliner Lily Allen in the Concert in the Gardens on Hogmanay.

Edinburgh’s street party, now in its 22nd year, welcomes revellers from all over the world.

Best known for their chart-topper Back to Life, Soul II Soul have sold more than ten million albums worldwide, while Björn Again have given nearly 5000 performances in 71 countries, achieving global cult status.

Fresh from a summer playing festivals around the country, including Parklife Weekender, LoveBox and T in the Park, Jazzie B from Soul II Soul said: “Can’t wait to have a great party at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and seeing in 2015 in  Scotland!”

Lily Allen comes to Edinburgh on the back of successful dates in the United States before embarking on the UK leg of her world tour, which ends with Edinburgh’s  Hogmanay show.

“I’ve always wanted to spend Hogmanay in Scotland so the fact that I get to do it this year but performing on stage in front of a whole load of people up for the best time makes it extra special,” she said.

The event is once again being produced by Unique Events and Underbelly on behalf of the city council.

An early bird ticket offer allowing Edinburgh residents to buy their street party ticket for a reduced price is open until Friday, November 28. Tickets for all events at Hogmanay are now on sale.

Councillor Steve Cardownie, festivals and events champion, said: “Edinburgh is the greatest place on earth to bring in the bells, and this year’s line-up has something for everyone.

“From the songs of ABBA to Lily Allen, the headliners for Hogmanay’s Concert in the Gardens are sure to entertain crowds as they countdown to 2015.”

Pete Irvine, director of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, said: “It’s been a very big year for Scotland, and we’re gonna close it with one hell of a party!”

The full programme for all three days of the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival – including the concert which will run into 1am on January 1 – will be announced next month.

Concert in the Gardens has played host to many internationally acclaimed acts over the years including Pet Shop Boys, Primal Scream, Biffy Clyro, Simple Minds, Madness, Groove Armada and Kasabian.