The Killers need reassurance for Glasto – Eavis

Despite confirmation earlier today that The Killers were to headline the Sunday night at Glastonbury, organiser Michael Eavis has told exclusively told Xfm that the band “Still need some reassurance.”

Speculation has been rife that the band would be asked to fill in after many bigger hitters were unwilling to step up to the plate. However, speaking at today’s (May 26) Ivor Novello Awards, Glasto organiser Michael Eavis explained that, while the slot had been offered to them, they were still unsure whether to seize the opportunity.

“It’s all rumours, it’s not confirmed,” he told Xfm. “I actually just spoke to them [on the phone] on the pavement outside of this very hotel about ten minutes ago. No, it’s not sorted yet. We’ve actually got other things going on at the same time – a four pronged attack, if you will.

“We’d very much like The Killers to do it, but they need a bit of reassurance that they can cope. I saw them last year in Bristol and then at the NME awards, and they can do it. They just need reassurance that they’re up to the job.

However, he commented that while the band may be soiling themselves about stepping out in front of 100,000 people and closing Glastonbury for two years, it happens to the best of them…

“I mean, even Coldplay are scared!” he continued. “But I asked them because it’d be an incredible show. Other than them, I’m looking forward to Terry Reed, and of course Coldplay will be excellent.”

Speculation had been rife following a news story in the Mid Somerset Newspaper, suggesting that, following Kylie’s last minute cancellation, The Killers were in line to fill the Sunday night headline slot.

The report continued saying that as a result of The Killers billing escalation, other slots will now have to be shuffled around. One band mentioned in this context are Keane who are now expected to fill The Killers’ former spot before the White Stripes on Friday.

While Glastonbury was reported to have approached at least four world class names, all are said to have declined the offer under the circumstances. A confirmation from The Killers camp that they would be headlining on the Sunday night was withdrawn two hours later with a slighty more equivocal “they’re still considering their options”.