Discover the 2026 lineup for Billboard U.K. Live at The Great Escape. See headliner Keo, chart-topper Bella Kay, and the hottest new indie acts in Brighton.
- April 15, 2026
AceShowbiz - The full roster for the Billboard U.K. Live takeover at The Great Escape Festival 2026 has been announced, set to take place from May 13 to 16 in Brighton, England.
Earlier, it was confirmed on February 3 that rising rock band Keo will headline The Deep End venue on May 14 as part of the event, marking a significant milestone in the group’s growing career. Now, several new artists have been added to the lineup, including Bella Kay, Madra Salach, Adult DVD, Bleech 9:3, Slag, and Dolder. This event aims to highlight the upcoming wave of indie and alternative musicians.
Bella Kay, who is currently 20 years old, is enjoying a surge in popularity. Her evocative acoustic track "iloveitiloveitiloveit" recently climbed to No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart dated April 11. The song is also holding strong at No. 2 on the U.K.’s Official Singles Chart and has maintained a top 10 presence since early March.
Madra Salach recently completed a sold-out headline tour across the U.K. and Ireland. The contemporary folk six-piece is preparing to release new music later in 2026. They will be joined by fellow Irish band Bleech 9:3, who has toured with Keo previously and released several singles this year, including their popular track "Ceiling."
Meanwhile, Adult DVD has been gaining momentum after performing at various U.K. festivals last summer. The indie groups Slag and Dolder are set to make their first appearances at The Great Escape this May.
The Deep End venue, where many of these performances will take place, is located on Madeira Drive, part of The Great Escape’s beachside site. Access to the shows requires a TGE wristband, with entry subject to venue capacity.
Each May, Brighton transforms into a hub for discovering new music during The Great Escape Festival. The event features emerging artists from the U.K., Ireland, and beyond, showcasing them across various independent venues throughout the city. The festival also includes panels and networking events, supporting the development of new talent.
Tickets are available through the festival’s official website, including passes for spotlight performances by acts such as The Kooks, Peaches, and Kingfishr. Other performers scheduled for 2026 include The Lottery Winners, Lime Garden, The Orchestra (For Now), Little Grandad, Natalie Wildgoose, and Lonnie Gunn.
Over the years, The Great Escape has been an important platform for artists like Charli XCX, The Last Dinner Party, Fontaines D.C., Sam Fender, and Lola Young, helping launch their careers on a wider scale.