Harry Styles’ Meltdown Festival Releases Line-up
Cultural Highlights Include Warpaint, LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy and Getdown Services
Just weeks after the release of his fourth album, KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY., Harry Styles has unveiled the first wave of artists set to appear at the 2026 edition of the Meltdown Festival, which he curates this year. The announcement signals a carefully assembled programme that balances established innovators with emerging voices, promising a distinctive and memorable edition of the long-running event.
Among the highlights, Warpaint will open the festival on Thursday 11 June with what has been confirmed as their only live performance of 2026. Their inclusion sets the tone for a programme that leans into atmospheric and forward-thinking sounds. Additional artists announced include Devonté Hynes, Nilüfer Yanya, Orlando Weeks, Getdown Services, Fousheé, and Jon Hopkins, reflecting the breadth of Styles’ curatorial vision.
A notable late-night highlight will come from James Murphy, best known for his work with LCD Soundsystem, who will deliver a special set on Saturday 20 June. Meanwhile, acts such as bar italia and Getdown Services contribute to a strong showing of contemporary alternative music, underscoring the festival’s commitment to both innovation and relevance.
Speaking on the programme, Styles emphasised the personal significance of the artists involved, noting that the line-up reflects both his influences and his ongoing creative inspirations. He highlighted the importance of celebrating established figures while also platforming emerging talent, and described the forthcoming performances as “unique” and “one-of-a-kind.” He also pointed to the importance of the Southbank Centre as a venue, citing its cultural legacy and atmosphere as integral to the live music experience.
Styles joins a distinguished lineage of Meltdown curators, following figures such as David Bowie, Yoko Ono, Patti Smith, Nile Rodgers, and most recently Little Simz. The 2026 festival will take place from 11 to 21 June across the Southbank Centre’s venues, coinciding with the institution’s 75th anniversary celebrations.
Selected Programme Highlights
11 June – Warpaint, Royal Festival Hall
16 June – Getdown Services, Purcell Room
18 June – bar italia, Queen Elizabeth Hall
19 June – Devonté Hynes Ensemble, Royal Festival Hall
20 June – Jon Hopkins (with collaborators), Queen Elizabeth Hall
20 June (Late Night) – James Murphy, Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer
Tickets will be released first to Southbank Centre members before general sale, with strong demand anticipated given both the curator’s profile and the strength of the programme.