INTERNATIONAL 70s and 80s hit maker Billy Ocean will headline Let's Rock Southampton next year, organisers have revealed.

The renowned R&B singer will take to the stage when the retro festival returns to Southampton Common in 2019.

Other big names include American soul music vocal group Shalamar, Belinda Carlisle and English singer-songwriter Nik Kershaw.

The event will take place on Saturday, July 6.

It comes after a sell-out year in 2018 for Let's Rock Southampton - which featured the likes of new wave star Adam Ant and American disco icons Sister Sledge.

The event also included a big screen, where thousands of football fans put their day of retro music on pause to watch England's World Cup quarter-final clash with Sweden.

Now organisers have promised next year's event will return to Southampton 'with a vengence'.

In a statement, they said: "With a sell-out crowd celebrating 10 years with us and the additional features of the Retrobates Party Live, the fun and addictive DJ sets in the VIP enclosure by Nathan Moore and Pat Sharp and not to mention the amazing artists – Let’s Rock Southampton certainly partied hard.

"So, we’re planning to come back with a vengeance for 2019 bringing you the very best of the 80’s and an action-packed day of retro madness.

"There is plenty to do for everyone at this family friendly festival."

Gates open at 10am with music from midday.

The show ends at 10.30pm.

Acts announced so far are:

  • Billy Ocean
  • Erasures's Andy Bell
  • Marc Almond
  • Shalamar
  • Belinda Carlisle
  • Nik Kershaw
  • From the Jam
  • Thomas Dolby
  • Limahl
  • Johnny Hates Jazz
  • Neville Staple Band
  • Captain Sensible

Featuring “The Retrobates Party Live”

  • Belouis Some
  • Owen Paul
  • Jennie 'Belle Star' Matthias
  • Matthias Musical Youth
  • Westworld
  • Plus, Black Lace's Conga Party