Ten days of music featuring diverse influences, styles, and artists. Anticipation is building for Meltdown Festival 2026, the 31st edition of which is curated by Harry Styles. The British pop star dominates the global charts with some of the singles from his latest album, “Kiss All the Time. Disco has occasionally” announced the event’s lineup. One of the longest-running music festivals in the world, it will take place at London’s Southbank Centre, which this year celebrates its 75th anniversary. An annual event in the UK capital, it is curated by a different artist each year. In the past, the artists have been selected by music stars such as David Bowie and The Cure, to name a few.

Harry Styles: “They’ve inspired me to push creative boundaries”

Mark Ball, artistic director of the Meltdown Festival, explained how Harry Styles’ chosen lineup is striking for its ability to blend so many different artists, yet connect. It truly reflects the pop star’s passion for diverse influences. Genres that are evident in the former One Directioner’s music. Introducing his selection, Styles said: “I’m a fan of every artist at Meltdown Festival. They’ve inspired me to push creative boundaries. They’re all music legends in their respective genres. Each of them means so much to me.”

Kamasi Washington and Shabaka, jazz icons

The British songwriter then announced the list of participating artists. Highly anticipated is saxophonist Kamasi Washington, an icon of contemporary jazz. He will perform in two different sessions. In the first, he will pay homage to the fathers of jazz. In the second, he will play some of his most famous songs. Another highly anticipated saxophonist is Shabaka, who has established himself on the British scene with his evocative live performances. He will also bring a group of friends on stage for what promises to be one of the most exciting performances yet.

Who are the other artists chosen by Styles?

Another eagerly awaited session is that of the godfather of Ethio Jazz, Mulatu Astatke. This would be a return to the Southbank Centre, where he closed his concerts last year. On the percussion front is Youssef Dayes, a British producer and drummer nominated for a Brit Award. Social media has helped boost his popularity, but it’s above all his rhythmic and spiritual energy that has won over fans.

The young Warpaint are performing first. The Los Angeles rock band will open the London festival, expected to be their only concert of 2026. Among the most electrifying sounds, Styles has chosen two women, not so far apart in their styles. They are Erika De Casier, a trip-hop genre with a touch of pop, and Ninajirachi, the new generation of Australian electronic music. Among the female artists, the eclectic Fousheé, with her thrilling, high-caliber voice, is set to amaze the audience. Nilufer Yanya, meanwhile, strikes deep chords with a mix of strings and electronic influences, with hints of jazz. Extreme emotions are on the horizon with the love letter proposed by Beverly Glenn-Copeland. An artistic partnership born and developed over time into an icon with his wife, Elizabeth. Joy, love, pain, a life journey to walk together.

And then there’s Getdown Services, Bar Italia, Stephen Fetwell, Orlando Weeks, the Devonté Hynes Ensemble, and the trio of Jon Hopkins, Maddie Ashman, and Leo Abrahams, masters of their respective genres, coming together for a magical set. Closing out the 2026 Meltdown Festival is James Murphy. The grand finale will be a danceable affair with the electronic music icon and leader of LCD Soundsystem, an indie rock band, and founder of DFA Records. A musician and producer, he’s one of the leading figures in new wave and electronic dance music.

Styles and the world tour

From Amsterdam to London, then on to Mexico City, São Paulo, New York, and Sydney. Harry Styles is in the midst of preparing for his world tour. He will skip Italy, much to the disappointment of fans who were eagerly awaiting him. Among his upcoming events is preparation for the 2026 Meltdown Festival, where the British singer-songwriter is not only curating the event but is also expected to perform live on June 16th in a special space during his London stop for the Wembley concert.