From Valerie by Amy Winehouse to Wonder Wall by Oasis to 505 by the Arctic Monkeys. Battle of the Bands 2022 really rocked the Wimbledonian stage. The show saw Wimbledon High’s own bands as well as neighbouring schools such as Ricards, Rutlish, Harris Wimbledon and Hampton, all battling it out to become 2022 champion.

The theme this year, was a song from the year you were born, many bands played classics whilst others took played their own original scores. Throughout the show, the audience was kept on their feet, clapping along, and waving their torch lights during Chasing Cars. These fifteen bands brought it all, with ages 11-18 competing, it showcased a wide range of talents, from mesmerizing violin skills to carefully crafted harmonies, all contributing to a wonderful event.

However, not only was this a fantastic night for the audience, but it was also great night for charity. The show raised money for the WHS Sixth Form Charity, Papyrus, which helps to prevent child suicide.

Lottie, an organiser of the event and an Elastic Band member, says:

“We had so much fun organising and performing in Battle of the Bands 2022. I was so pleased that all our hard work paid off and it was a magical evening that brought lots of schools from the local community together. We are so proud to say we have raised almost £1700 for the charity Papyrus. " 

Every performer was amazing, but it is a competition and of course there must be winners. Here are your 2022 Battle of the Band Champions…

The Hawi Rocks from the Harris Wimbledon came third with their performance of Smooth Criminal. 

Wimbledon High’s band Impulse came second with Valerie. 

I had the pleasure of talking to Lauren, who is one of the lead singers of Impulse, and she says:

“It was a super experience because I have never performed in front of that many people before, and hearing everyone singing along with me, and cheering replaced all my nerves with excitement. We practiced a lot and were anxious to perform so a successful performance felt really great.” 

And finally, many congratulations to Young Ruts from Rutlish, who stole the stage with their engaging presence and won that number one spot with the fan favourite Wonderwall!

Well done to all who participated, I look forward to seeing you all next year!