The singer’s set, which spanned fan favourites from Take Me To Church to deeper cuts from his latest album, showcased his unparalleled ability to blend raw emotion with intricate musicianship. Each note felt intentional — a reminder that Hozier isn’t just a singer; he’s a storyteller whose songs resonate far beyond the stage.
But this year’s gig carried a little extra weight. As if taking a leaf from Bono’s book, Hozier didn’t shy away from political commentary. Between songs, he touched on topics ranging from climate change to social inequality, seamlessly weaving his convictions into the fabric of the evening without ever feeling preachy. It was a rare balancing act: delivering a stadium-ready show while prompting his audience to reflect on the world beyond the festival grounds.
The crowd responded enthusiastically, waving hands, singing along, and hanging on to every lyric.
He had previously used his platform to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza and support for Palestinian self-determination. For instance, during his headlining set at Reading Festival 2025, he called for "a meaningful political solution" to the violence in Gaza and emphasized the importance of peace and safety for everyone in the Middle East .
It was clear that the Electric Picnic audience wasn’t just there for a concert — they were witnessing an artist using his platform to merge music and message. By the final encore, Hozier had not only reminded fans of his extraordinary musical gifts but also of the power of artists to inspire thought and action.
Electric Picnic 2025 may have seen countless performers grace its stages, but Hozier’s politically tinged, musically masterful set will be remembered as one of the festival’s defining moments.
