Teenage Student Rockers Triumph

Teenage rock group Something Stupid stole the show at the 2025 Maidenhead Festival Battle of the Bands on Saturday, emerging as winners of the sold-out event at the United Reform Church Hall, West Street.

The four-piece band – formed at Burnham Grammar School by 16-year-olds Logan Reid, Haydn Juliff and Oliver Gratrick, and 15-year-old Freddie Braithwaite – wowed the crowd and beat older, more experienced opposition to claim the coveted Battle of the Bands trophy.

A Night of Outstanding Local Talent: also performing on the night were:

• The Jam Merchants – rock duo
• Millennium – energetic punk, pop and emo band
• Stupidchief – post-grunge/indie metal act
• Belizaire – indie alternative rock outfit

Each band played a 15-minute set before the audience cast their votes for their two favourite acts, with the band receiving the most votes declared the winner.

The event was compered by local musician Tara Deane and proudly sponsored by Kirkwood Personal Estate Agents. Previous Battle of the Bands winners Courtlands Stories entertained the crowd while votes were counted.

As part of their prize, Something Stupid will perform live at the Maidenhead Christmas Lights Switch-On in the town centre on Saturday 22 November.

Vocalist and rhythm guitarist Haydn Juliff said: “There were some really great bands playing and we never expected to come first. We just love to play live in front of an audience, so winning was a real bonus for us.”

Festival Chairman Lisa Hunter said: “It was an incredible evening of fantastic live music. All of the acts were exceptional but Something Stupid obviously also had something extra special as far as the audience vote was concerned.

Battle of the Bands is an important platform for young and emerging acts to play live in front of an audience. It was an amazing showcase for the creativity and talent of our local music scene.”

Lisa also thanked Kirkwood Personal Estate Agents for sponsoring the event and volunteers from Maidenhead Bridge Rotary Club for supporting the Festival team.

The Festival’s next event will see us team up with the Maidenhead Town Show to run the musical entertainment at the popular town centre event on Sunday 19 October.

Keep an eye on our website and social channels for more updates about upcoming events!

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