Columbia University’s annual Bacchanal music festival has announced its highly anticipated 2026 lineup, with English rapper Fakemink set to headline the event. The announcement was made via an Instagram reel on Tuesday, featuring Fakemink’s viral collaboration with EsDeeKid and Rico Ace, “LV Sandals.” This booking marks a significant moment for the festival, underscoring Fakemink’s rapid ascent in the music industry.
Supporting Fakemink will be indie rock band Slow Pulp, who will perform as the opener, and Nourished by Time, a post-punk and R&B artist, serving as the supporting act. Both Slow Pulp and Nourished by Time have previously graced the Lollapalooza stage, with Nourished by Time also slated to perform on select dates of Freddie Gibbs’ 2026 U.S. tour.
Fakemink’s Rise to Stardom
Fakemink, whose real name is Vincenzo Camille, has rapidly become a prominent figure in the UK rap scene. Hailing from Essex, he first gained traction with his 2025 single “Easter Pink” and released his debut mixtape, “London’s Savior,” in December 2023. With a sound characterized by a blend of hyperpop and jerk rap revival, the 21-year-old artist is credited with revitalizing interest in rap within London’s underground hip-hop community. His growing influence is evidenced by over 8.3 million monthly listeners on Spotify and cosigns from major artists like Frank Ocean and Playboi Carti. Drake even brought Fakemink out as a surprise guest at the 2025 Wireless Festival in London to perform “LV Sandals.”
The rapper has declared himself the “Eminem of the UK underground” and is preparing for his first world tour, “A Terrible Beauty: The Tour,” which includes festival appearances at Coachella, Rolling Loud, and Lollapalooza Chicago. His upcoming album, “Terrified,” is slated for release this spring, further cementing his presence in the global music landscape. Bacchanal co-president Isis Contreras Pérez highlighted Fakemink’s meteoric rise, noting that he has “blown up really quickly.” The festival’s teasing campaign for Fakemink included Instagram posts featuring a rat’s tail (referencing his hairstyle), an allusion to the F and M trains and Louis Vuitton, and an illustration of a deer, referencing his song “Bambi.”
The Supporting Acts: Slow Pulp and Nourished by Time
Indie rock band Slow Pulp will kick off the Bacchanal performances, bringing their distinct sound to the festival stage. Nourished by Time, a solo project by Brown, has been noted for his “electro funk and experimental indie mix.” His debut album “Erotic Probiotic 2” received acclaim, and his recent releases have earned him a deal with XL Recordings. His vocals have been compared to R&B groups SWV and Jodeci, and Tyler, the Creator has given him a shoutout. Nourished by Time’s live performances are also known for his on-stage live coding, adding a unique technical element to his sets.
The inclusion of student performer Rosie Peppé, winner of Bacchanal’s Battle of the Bands, adds another layer to the festival, with Peppé expressing excitement about sharing the stage with another English artist.
