Vince Power: Mean Fiddler founder and live music giant dies at 76
The Irish promoter had a key hand in the running of Reading Festival, Glastonbury and more across a long career.
Vince Power, the founder of the Mean Fiddler group and a legend of the live music world, has died aged 76.
Power, born in Co. Waterford, Ireland, set up Mean Fiddler in the early 1980s, a company which went on to have a key hand in the running of Reading Festival, Glastonbury and more.
Since news of his death broke, figures from across the music industry have lauded Power and his legacy.
Leading tributes was Paul Weller, who said: “I’m sorry to hear of the passing of Vince Power, who was a good friend to us, and will be greatly missed. Bless you mate and thank you.”
In a post on their website, Memorial Exchange said: “Today, the music community mourns the loss of one of its beloved figures, Vince Power, whose passing has left a profound void in the hearts of many.”
“Vince Power was more than just a music promoter; he was a friend, a visionary, and a purveyor of unforgettable experiences. His contributions to the music scene, particularly in venues like Subterrania London and The KPH, have left an indelible mark on both artists and audiences alike.
The post added: “For those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with Vince, his infectious laughter, warm spirit, and unwavering passion for music will forever be cherished.”
Others to pay tribute included Cerys Matthews, who wrote: “I’m going to miss you so very much, my friend in music, in thinking, in dreaming. love you very much. RiP.”
Melvin Benn, Festival Republic Managing Director, added: “Vince’s passing is a massive loss to the music industry and to me personally. A visionary with a willingness to take risks to enable his vision but always with a humbleness that belied his importance. We had an amazing 20 years together that helped shape the music industry as we know it now.”
Elsewhere, ex-NME and Q Magazine editor Danny Kelly called Power “the most important music promoter in the UK” and lauded “a life fully lived”.
See more tributes to Power below.