When news broke that Chipping Sodbury—best known as a charming market town on the edge of the Cotswolds—would host Good Times 2025, it was met with understandable wonder. Surely this had to be another tribute band weekend? But no, the lineup was the real deal. As the details emerged, it became clear: this sleepy town was about to be transformed into a stage for genuine pop royalty. And for fans of feel-good anthems and throwback hits, it promised a night to remember.
First to grace the stage was none other than Chesney Hawkes—a name that instantly triggers nostalgia for many of a certain age. As the opening chords rang out, so did the cheers. The crowd, phones aloft, greeted the 90s icon with open arms. Chesney, charming as ever, kicked things off with energy and warmth, introducing his bandmates—including his son on guitar and his brother on drums—which added a personal, heartfelt touch to the set.
Hawkes delivered a mix of new material and beloved classics, even surprising fans with a raucous cover of I Predict A Riot by Kaiser Chiefs. But of course, there was only one song everyone was waiting for. As he launched into The One and Only, the audience roared in unison, singing every word like the last two decades had never happened. It was a euphoric moment, a perfect opener that set the tone for the night.
Then came a performance many thought they’d never witness: Sister Sledge, led by the incomparable Kathy Sledge. As the band and dancers took the stage, anticipation gave way to sheer joy. Kathy, radiant and full of life, commanded the spotlight with effortless grace. Her smile lit up the venue, and from the first note, she had the audience in the palm of her hand.
The set was a celebration of disco’s golden age, but also a testament to timeless talent. Fans were invited to join Kathy on stage during He’s The Greatest Dancer, adding an interactive spark to the evening. The dancers each had their own moment to shine, showcasing slick choreography that honoured the group’s legacy. Highlights included soulful renditions of Frankie and Thinking of You, but it was We Are Family that brought the house down—an unforgettable communal singalong that had strangers hugging and dancing arm in arm.
Closing the night was a true legend: Billy Ocean. The Grammy-winning soul icon needs no introduction, but his presence still managed to leave the crowd awestruck. Dapper and dignified, he owned the stage with the charisma of a man who’s been doing this all his life—and still loves every minute of it.
Ocean’s set was a greatest hits masterclass, including Love Really Hurts Without You, Suddenly, and of course, the indelible When the Going Gets Tough. The latter had the entire crowd moving, many flashing back to their own memories of the 1985 classic and its association with Romancing the Stone. Ocean’s vocal strength and connection with the audience reminded everyone why he remains one of Britain’s most beloved performers.
Good Times 2025 proved that great music transcends time, and that even the most unexpected locations can become magical stages when filled with the right energy and talent. With nostalgia, joy, and world-class performances, Chipping Sodbury may have just hosted one of the year’s most heart-warming music events.
