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🇧🇪 Belgium /Culture & Society

Sick Elvis Costello replaced by Triggerfinger at Rock Werchter; fans disappointed but impressed

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Belgian rock band Triggerfinger replaced a sick Elvis Costello at the Rock Werchter festival on short notice.
  • The band expressed excitement about the last-minute opportunity, though frontman Ruben Block noted regret over Costello's absence.
  • Festival-goers were disappointed by Costello's cancellation but impressed by Triggerfinger's performance.

Belgian rock band Triggerfinger stepped in at the last minute to perform at the Rock Werchter festival after the 71-year-old Elvis Costello canceled his appearance due to illness.

Waking up in the morning with the question of whether you can replace someone last minute at Werchter is one of the nicest ways to start the day.

— Ruben BlockThe frontman of Triggerfinger described his reaction to the last-minute invitation to perform at Rock Werchter.

Triggerfinger frontman Ruben Block described the unexpected call as a welcome way to start the day. "Waking up in the morning with the question of whether you can replace someone last minute at Werchter is one of the nicest ways to start the day," he said. Drummer Mario Goossens called it a "nice surprise."

It is only a pity that it comes at the expense of a performer and songwriter like Elvis Costello.

— Ruben BlockBlock expressed regret that the opportunity arose due to Elvis Costello's illness.

Costello, who had been experiencing vocal issues, announced his withdrawal on the festival's opening day. He had reportedly performed in Brussels days earlier despite suffering from bronchitis, against medical advice. The singer expressed his deep regret for canceling the performance.

He's not coming? You're kidding me. I wasn't aware at all.

— WoutA disappointed festival-goer reacted to the news of Elvis Costello's cancellation.

Fans attending the festival expressed disappointment upon learning of Costello's cancellation, with some being unaware until shortly before his scheduled set time. Despite their disappointment, many were impressed by Triggerfinger's performance, acknowledging the band as capable replacements.

He's not coming? Good heavens, Elvis Costello was one of my highlights.

— WoutThe festival-goer expressed his strong disappointment upon learning Costello would not perform.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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