Singer Praises Artists at Meltdown Festival

Harry Styles has revealed the curated lineup for the 2026 Meltdown festival, which will take place at London’s Southbank Centre. The event is presented as part of the Southbank Centre’s 75th anniversary year.

The festival is scheduled to run from Thursday, June 11, until Sunday, June 21, 2026. Styles will perform a solo headline concert at the Royal Festival Hall on June 16, a date that falls within a larger run of 12 scheduled performances at Wembley Stadium.

A Diverse Curatorial Approach

Styles has assembled a range of artists spanning jazz, pop, indie rock, and electronic music. He described the selection as a reflection of artists who mean a great deal to him as both a fan and a musician.

Music is my life. Every artist involved in this year’s Meltdown festival means so much to me, both as a fan, and a musician. It’s a true honour to host legends who have paved the way for the generations that follow them, as well as new acts that have inspired me to push my creative boundaries.

Harry Styles

The jazz programming features two distinct performances by American saxophonist Kamasi Washington. One set will focus on his album Fearless Movement, while the second, titled Jazz Legends Reimagined, will see Washington reinterpret works from the jazz canon.

Other jazz and experimental contributions include Ethio-jazz legend Mulatu Astatke, who returns to the venue following a farewell tour in 2025. The UK jazz scene is represented by drummer Yussef Dayes and woodwind artist Shabaka, the latter of whom is set to perform a collaborative set with guests.

Indie and Electronic Lineup

The festival includes a variety of indie and alternative acts. The Los Angeles-based rock band Warpaint will perform their only gig of the year, and British singer-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya is also featured in the lineup.

Further additions to the roster include the group Bar Italia, songwriter Stephen Fretwell, and the act Getdown Services. Orlando Weeks, the lead singer of the Maccabees, is scheduled to perform a set combining music and storytelling.

Devonté Hynes, known as Blood Orange, will present classical music performed by an ensemble that includes Tariq Al-Sabir, Cæcilie Trier, and Adam Tendler. Singer Erika de Casier is included in the festival’s programming.

Styles expressed his anticipation for the event, noting that the Southbank Centre is a special place to experience live music and stating that he hopes both performers and attendees have an unforgettable time.