The Great Escape Conference has unveiled a fresh wave of speakers and sessions for its landmark 20th anniversary edition, bringing even more leading voices from across the global music industry to Brighton this May.
Taking place from 13–15 May 2026, the UK’s premier new music conference continues to build an ambitious, future-facing programme, with newly announced keynotes, panels and industry initiatives set to tackle the most important conversations shaping music today.
New Keynote: Emma Banks & Natasha Gregory
A standout addition to this year’s programme sees two of the most influential figures in live music take centre stage. Emma Banks (CAA) and Natasha Gregory (Mother) will come together for a special keynote conversation hosted by IQ Magazine on the TGE Beach Site on Wednesday 13 May.
With decades of experience between them, the session will offer a rare behind-the-scenes insight into the global live industry — from breaking new talent to building arena-level careers.
‘Music Saved My Life’ – CALM Panel
As part of The Great Escape’s partnership with CALM, a powerful new panel titled Music Saved My Life will explore the role music plays in mental health and wellbeing.
The session features Ed O’Brien (Radiohead) and Mercury Prize-nominated artist Nadine Shah, joined by broadcaster and DJ Harpz Kaur, alongside leading researchers Dr George Musgrave and Chris Price. Together, they’ll discuss music’s ability to support, heal and connect — both personally and across the wider industry.
Industry Conversations That Matter
This latest announcement also brings a series of timely and thought-provoking panels addressing key issues across the music ecosystem.
UK Music will lead a vital discussion on the economic impact of Black British music, following the release of its report Black Music Means Business: Driving Economic Growth in the UK.
AIM will present a deep dive into the award-winning campaign behind Bon Iver’s SABLE fABLE, while BBC Introducing returns with a dedicated session spotlighting emerging talent and pathways into the industry.
War Child will also host a special panel, in partnership with NME, exploring the creation of the newly released HELP(2) album.
Meanwhile, the Council of Music Makers (CMM) will present From Awareness to Action: Building Safer Music Communities, tackling accountability, safety and cultural change across the industry, guided by CIISA and featuring voices from across the sector.
The Steve Strange Award Returns
The Great Escape is proud to announce the return of The Steve Strange Award for 2026.
Named in honour of the legendary live agent, the award celebrates the next generation of groundbreaking artists, with the winner receiving a £5,000 cash prize to support their development. Previous recipients include Aggrasoppar and Zetra — artists who embody the bold, boundary-pushing spirit of The Great Escape.
Supporting the Next Generation
The conference continues its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and industry professionals through its ELEVATE programme.
Funded by Arts Council England, 20 ELEVATE super-delegates will receive enhanced access to the festival and conference, alongside mentoring, invite-only sessions and curated networking opportunities designed to accelerate their careers.
Career Support, Networking & Global Connections
Delegates can also take advantage of a range of practical support and networking opportunities across the week.
Drop-in advice booths will return to the Conference Hub at Leonardo Royal Waterfront, hosted by Arts Council England, ACS Custom, Handle Recruitment and Music Support — offering guidance on everything from funding and careers to hearing health and wellbeing.
International Speed Meetings, hosted by the Department for Business and Trade, will once again connect delegates with global industry leaders including agents, promoters, festival bookers and music supervisors. Sign-ups will open soon.
Join Us in Brighton
This latest conference announcement follows a wave of over 100 new artists added to The Great Escape 2026 line-up, continuing to showcase the most exciting emerging talent from around the world as part of the festival’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
The Great Escape Conference takes place in Brighton from 13–15 May 2026. Access to all conference activity is via a delegates pass.