A Convicted Fraudster’s Fake Music Festival with Glastonbury Headliners

James Kenny, a convicted fraudster, created an elaborate fake music festival called Monmouth Rising, claiming it would feature major acts like The Killers, Pulp, Def Leppard, and The Libertines. The festival, which was supposed to take place over the August bank holiday, promised to be the world’s first hydrogen-powered festival. However, after a detailed investigation, it became clear that the festival was based on lies. Employees, suppliers, and even investors began to realize that the festival was a farce, with no payments being made and no official applications for permits or band bookings. Kenny had convinced many with fabricated stories of financial backing, including claims of investors like the co-founder of Leon restaurant chain, John Vincent. Yet, no one could verify his claims. Key acts like Idris Elba and Groove Armada were supposedly booked, but they denied any involvement. As the festival’s planned date neared, employees started questioning Kenny’s integrity and the lack of tangible progress. The festival was eventually canceled, leaving many people, including suppliers and workers, out of pocket. Kenny’s track record includes previous failed ventures and alleged forgeries, prompting widespread doubt about his motivations. Despite this, he continued to claim that the festival was a genuine effort that ultimately fell apart due to logistical issues, leaving numerous victims in its wake.