Fatboy Slim

Fatboy Slim Live at O2 Academy Bournemouth - Thursday, 4 December 2025

Get ready to go “Right Here, Right Now”! The legendary Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, is set to ignite the O2 Academy Bournemouth on Thursday, 4 December 2025, for a night that promises to be an unforgettable explosion of pure rave energy and iconic beats. Bournemouth, prepare yourselves for a sonic journey back to the halcyon days of the big beat revolution and a glimpse into the future of electronic dance music, all delivered by one of its most beloved and influential pioneers. This isn’t just a gig; it’s a pilgrimage for anyone who has ever danced with abandon to a perfectly crafted bassline, a euphoric melody, or a sample that burrowed its way into your very soul.

Fatboy Slim’s return to the O2 Academy Bournemouth is a cause for serious celebration. His performances are renowned for their sheer exuberance, a sensory overload of dazzling visuals, infectious energy, and a track selection that transcends generations. He has a unique ability to connect with every single person in the room, transforming a venue into a communal celebration of sound and movement. This is your chance to witness a true master at work, a DJ who doesn’t just play music but curates an experience. Prepare for a night where the music is loud, the energy is boundless, and the memories will last a lifetime.

About Fatboy Slim

Norman Quentin Quentin Cook, better known to the world as Fatboy Slim, is an undisputed titan of the electronic music scene. Emerging from the vibrant musical landscape of Brighton in the late 1980s, Cook first gained recognition as the bassist for the indie rock band The Housemartins. However, his true calling lay in the burgeoning world of electronic dance music. As Fatboy Slim, he exploded onto the global stage in the late 1990s and early 2000s, becoming synonymous with the infectious and anthemic “big beat” sound.

His early work, such as the critically acclaimed album Better Living Through Chemistry, laid the groundwork for his signature style, characterised by a fusion of hip-hop breaks, funk samples, and relentless energy. It was with his 1998 masterpiece, You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby, that Fatboy Slim truly cemented his legacy. This album spawned a string of monumental hits that became the soundtrack to a generation. “The Rockafeller Skank” with its iconic, swaggering riff and nonsensical vocal hook, became an instant classic, synonymous with energetic parties and sporting events. “Praise You,” a surprisingly soulful and uplifting track featuring spoken-word vocals and a simple, yet devastatingly effective, piano melody, showcased Cook’s ability to blend raw energy with moments of genuine warmth and introspection. “Right Here, Right Now” with its powerful build-up and soaring chorus, is an anthem of enduring optimism and the perfect embodiment of his crowd-pleasing prowess.

Beyond these chart-topping smashes, Fatboy Slim’s discography is peppered with further gems like “Sunset (Bird of Prey)” and “Star 69,” each contributing to his reputation as a producer who could craft undeniably catchy and danceable tracks. His influence extends far beyond his own releases; he’s a celebrated remixer and a highly sought-after DJ, consistently delivering electrifying sets that ignite dancefloors worldwide. He’s not just a producer; he’s a showman, a curator of joy, and a living legend who continues to inspire and entertain.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Bournemouth is a premier entertainment venue situated in the heart of this vibrant coastal city. Known for its impressive capacity and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, it provides the perfect setting for a high-energy performance from an artist like Fatboy Slim. With a history of hosting some of the biggest names in music, the O2 Academy Bournemouth promises an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere, ensuring every attendee gets a fantastic view and an immersive audio experience. For complete venue details, including accessibility information and directions, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an electrifying journey through the annals of dance music history when Fatboy Slim takes the stage at the O2 Academy Bournemouth. His sets are a masterclass in crowd control and sonic curation, weaving together his own seminal hits with a carefully selected tapestry of funk, soul, hip-hop, and electronic anthems. You can absolutely expect to be treated to a barrage of iconic tracks. “The Rockafeller Skank” will undoubtedly get everyone jumping, its unmistakable energy impossible to resist. “Praise You” will likely bring a wave of collective joy and singalongs, a testament to its enduring appeal. And of course, brace yourself for the anthemic “Right Here, Right Now,” a track that never fails to create a euphoric crescendo.

Beyond these guaranteed crowd-pleasers, Fatboy Slim is known for digging deep into his extensive record collection, unearthing forgotten gems and contemporary bangers that perfectly complement his signature sound. Expect unexpected mash-ups, clever transitions, and a seamless flow of music that keeps the energy levels consistently sky-high. His performance style is as much about connection as it is about beats. He’s a charismatic presence behind the decks, often seen engaging with the crowd, pumping his fists, and embodying the pure, unadulterated joy of the music. While the exact duration can vary, expect a substantial set, typically running for around 90 minutes to two hours, filled with nonstop dancing and a few surprise moments that will leave you breathless. This is a DJ set that transcends the ordinary, offering a complete sensory experience where visuals and sound combine to create a truly immersive party.

FAQs

Q1: Will Fatboy Slim be playing his classic hits? Absolutely! Fatboy Slim’s sets are legendary for their inclusion of his most beloved and iconic tracks. You can be sure to hear anthems like “The Rockafeller Skank,” “Praise You,” and “Right Here, Right Now,” along with a generous selection of other fan favourites that have defined his illustrious career.

Q2: Can I request songs during the performance? While Fatboy Slim is known for his masterful curation, direct song requests on the night are generally not feasible during his high-energy DJ sets. He has a meticulously planned setlist designed to take the audience on a specific journey, and he’s incredibly adept at reading the room and playing what works best to maintain the momentum and atmosphere.

Q3: What kind of visual experience can I expect at a Fatboy Slim show? Fatboy Slim’s performances are renowned for their spectacular visual elements. Expect a dynamic light show, often accompanied by large screens displaying vibrant graphics, iconic music videos, and captivating imagery that perfectly complements the music. It’s designed to be a full sensory experience, enhancing the energy and impact of his set.

Q4: Is Fatboy Slim known for any particular stage antics or interactions? Yes, Norman Cook is a master showman. While he is primarily a DJ, he brings an immense amount of energy and personality to his performances. He’s often seen interacting with the crowd, pumping his arms, and generally embodying the ecstatic spirit of the music he’s playing, adding to the infectious atmosphere.

Q5: How long is a typical Fatboy Slim DJ set? Fatboy Slim’s DJ sets are substantial and built to keep the party going. While timings can vary, you can generally expect his sets to be around 90 minutes to two hours in length, packed with a relentless flow of high-energy music.

Q6: Is this a live band performance or a DJ set? This event will be a Fatboy Slim DJ set. Norman Cook is primarily celebrated for his exceptional skills as a DJ and producer, and his live shows are curated through his masterful selection and mixing of tracks.