Billboard U.Ok. is heading all the way down to the seaside metropolis of Brighton for a second consecutive 12 months, as a part of an unique stage takeover at The Nice Escape.
The pageant, which takes place Might 13-16, will play host to the most recent Billboard U.Ok. Dwell occasion, following final 12 months’s headline efficiency from English Instructor.
For the 2026 version, rising rockers Keo will high the invoice, persevering with a sizzling streak that has seen them promote out a spring U.Ok. and Eire headline tour, and land a serious label cope with Island.
Having fashioned on the London gig circuit shortly after lockdown, the band got here to prominence final summer season with the discharge of their Siren EP. They’ve appeared at festivals equivalent to Studying & Leeds and ESNS, and likewise opened up for Kings of Leon at BST Hyde Park.
Talking on the announcement, Thomas Smith, editor of Billboard U.Ok. says: “The Nice Escape has lengthy been a champion for spotlighting and supporting rising expertise, and this can be a ardour shared by the Billboard U.Ok. staff. Following final 12 months’s stage takeover, we’re thrilled to be returning as soon as once more in 2026 and to be internet hosting a stellar headline set from Keo, one of the thrilling (and loudest) prospects within the U.Ok. scene proper now. See you within the pit.”
The Nice Escape takes place every Might, showcasing up-and-coming expertise from the U.Ok., Eire, and past. Over the course of 4 days, a plethora of artists spanning the musical spectrum carry out throughout Brighton’s quite a few unbiased venues. The occasion additionally options trade panels and networking. Tickets can be found by the pageant’s official web site.
Alongside Keo, over 130 extra names have been introduced for this 12 months’s pageant, together with genre-clashing icon Peaches, who will headline a Highlight Present at Brighton Dome Live performance Corridor on Might 15.
Different names on the lineup embody: Bleech 9:3, Lord Apex, Villanelle, Ladylike, Informal Sensible, Bathing Fits, Theatre, Jamaica Moana, Pozzy, Blue Flexible and Natalie Wildgoose.
Keep tuned for additional bulletins associated to the Billboard U.Ok. Dwell stage and The Nice Escape.

