The Great Escape has confirmed its first wave of keynote speakers for its 2026 conference, led by Melanie C and DCMS Minister of State Ian Murray MP.
The Brighton showcase festival will be returning from May 13 to 16, and will feature speakers from across different corners of the industry. Melanie C will be joined by British DJ Jaguar to discuss new LP Sweat (due May 1), as well as an illustrious career as a member of the Spice Girls. The conversation will be presented in association with The Great Escape’s Charity Partner, CALM.
Ian Murray MP, meanwhile, joins the conference for a discussion covering the U.K. ‘s evolving creative industries, including music, touring, broadcasting and the night-time economy, and how government policy shapes and impacts these sectors.
In a statement, the MP said: “The Great Escape is a vital event in the live music calendar, and celebrating its 20th anniversary will be a significant occasion. I’m delighted to be attending, and speaking to delegates at the conference in May.”
Melanie C added: “I’m really looking forward to joining The Great Escape this year and taking the time to reflect on my journey in the music industry. From the early days with the Spice Girls to building a solo career and stepping behind the decks as a DJ, I’ve experienced so many different sides of this business. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and how the industry has continued to evolve.”
Elsewhere, Molly Neuman, president of online distributor CD Baby, will be joined by presenter of The Money Trench podcast Mark Sutherland. The pair will unpack how artists can thrive creatively and financially in an evolving industry landscape.
There is also set to be a keynote discussion from The Council of Music Makers (CMM), who will bring together Annabella Coldrick (MMF), Naomi Pohl (Musicians’ Union), David Martin (FAC), Roberto Neri (Ivors Academy) and Cameron Craig (MPG) to tackle topics like AI music companies and streaming economics to ticketing reform.
Other additions to the conference lineup include representatives from War Child and Rough Trade, alongside the BPI, PPL, EarthPercent, CALM, IQ Magazine, Music Venues Alliance Brighton (MVAB), Youth Music plus many more.
Earlier this month, it was announced that fast-rising rockers Keo will headline The Beach stage at The Great Escape as part of the Billboard U.K. Live takeover. Additional names will be added to the stage’s bill in the coming months.
Speaking on the announcement, Thomas Smith, editor of Billboard U.K. said: “The Great Escape has long been a champion for spotlighting and supporting emerging talent, and this is a passion shared by the Billboard U.K. team. Following last year’s stage takeover, we’re thrilled to be returning once again in 2026 and to be hosting a stellar headline set from Keo, one of the most exciting (and loudest) prospects in the U.K. scene right now. See you in the pit.”