From Gridiron to Decks: Former Footballer Spins Tunes

Emma Harbs, who once represented Great Britain in American football, is gearing up for a performance at Radio 1's Big Weekend. The athlete transitioned to a career as a DJ, a path she attributes to the unforeseen circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic. Her rigorous training schedule for American football, which involved six days of practice per week, was put on hold in 2019.

During the lockdown period, Harbs' partner provided her with DJ decks, sparking a new passion. She has since dedicated herself to mastering the craft, learning through online tutorials and extensive practice. This newfound pursuit of music, fueled by a lifelong love for festivals, has culminated in an invitation to perform at the Big Weekend event.

The festival, scheduled to take place between May 22-24, will feature Harbs on the Introducing Stage at Sunderland's Herrington Country Park on Saturday, May 23. The event highlights emerging talent from Sunderland and the wider North East region, making Harbs' inclusion particularly significant. She expressed disbelief and excitement upon receiving the invitation, as performing at Big Weekend was a long-held aspiration.