Peter Gabriel Releases Live Album from Inaugural 1982 WOMAD Festival

Peter Gabriel will release a digital album titled Live at WOMAD 1982, featuring his performance from the inaugural WOMAD Festival held in June 1982 in Somerset, England. The festival, which Gabriel co-founded, showcased music and art from around the world with 60 bands from over 20 countries, emphasizing world music as headliners rather than supporting acts. Gabriel's set included seven songs from his then-upcoming album Peter Gabriel 4, such as "Shock the Monkey," as well as classics like "Biko." Despite the festival's artistic success, it faced financial difficulties, nearly leading to its cancellation, but was ultimately saved by Gabriel's reunion concert with Genesis later that year. Gabriel recalled being preoccupied with the festival's management and financial risks during his performance, but praised the open-minded and curious audience. The release of this live recording on August 8th offers fans a landmark and edgy glimpse into a pivotal moment both musically and personally for Gabriel.