Eminem to Headline Reading, Leeds Music Festivals in U.K.

LONDON - Eminem is the first headliner announced for next summer's twin music festivals in Reading and Leeds, England.

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Organizers for the two big U.K. music events in August announced the 40-year-old hip hop star's return after more than a decade, with further names to be added later.

Black Sabbath, Blur, Arctic Monkeys and Green Day have been among the big-name acts rumored to be in the running for the two additional headline spots.

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Reading Festival 2013 and Leeds Festival will take place over the weekend of Aug. 23-25.

Eminem last played Reading and Leeds in 2001 following the release of his first hit album "The Marshall Mathers LP." That year, Marilyn Manson joined him on stage to sing their hit "The Way I Am."

The rap star joins previously announced Leeds and Reading 2013 acts Deftones, Alt-J, Sub Focus and rap/hip hop collective Boy Better Know.

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The festivals will next year introduce more stages, including a hip hop stage, and add further genres of music. It is also planning an expanded dance music lineup.

A first batch of Reading and Leeds festival tickets are already on sale through year's end at reduced early prices.

The Cure, Kasabian and Foo Fighters headlined the twin festivals this year.

Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com
Twitter: @georgszalai