Simon Cowell is set to attend this year's Glastonbury festival to watch his good friend Shakin' Stevens perform.

The 'American Idol' judge has bought tickets for the world famous music event in Somerset, England, so he can see the 80s British rocker take to the stage.

A source said: "Simon has always respected anyone's ability to achieve commercial music success."

"In the 80s no one was better than Shakin' Stevens."

Stevens - real name Michael Barratt - insists it's no surprise the music mogul will witness arguably the biggest show of his career.

The singer - whose hits include 'This Ole House' and 'Green Door' - said: "We were great friends in the 80s. Simon loved all the stuff I was making at the time."

Last month, Stevens - who modeled himself on the late Elvis Presley - was revealed as a surprise opener on the second day of the event, which takes place over the weekend of June 27-29.

Other acts performing include James Blunt, Crowded House, Panic! At the Disco and The Gossip.

The main stage headliners were confirmed months ago as Kings of Leon, Jay-Z and The Verve.

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