Slow Readers Club lead artists for Manchester’s Beyond The Music 2026
Beyond The Music 2026: Where Art, Tech, and Politics Collide
Get ready for a monumental convergence of creativity and conversation. Beyond The Music (BTM) is gearing up for its 2026 edition, set to transform multiple spaces within MediaCity in Salford between October 6 and 9. More than just a music festival, BTM is positioning itself as a vital platform dedicated to raising, discussing, and solving the biggest challenges facing the modern creative industries.
The event brings together major voices across music, technology, film, gaming, and content, alongside key political figures, creating a dynamic environment where the future of creativity is debated in real-time. The core ethos remains clear: to explore how the music and media landscape can be made more equitable and sustainable for those behind the art.
This year’s lineup is already buzzing with talent, confirming that the festival will continue to champion diverse and innovative sounds. The next wave of artists confirmed for performance includes the Scottish art-rock band Walt Disco and the London goth rock outfit Moth Ulcers. On the bill are also Cody Frost, Another Country $$, SILVERWINGKILLER, Ch3ekz, Holly Head, Boo Kickz, and TELESHOPPING.
The festival also features a compelling mix of established names and emerging stars, with acts such as JD Cliffe, Migraine Mowgli, Superlative, ALT BLK ERA, Bruise Control, and 40,000 Leagues joining the stage. Keep an eye out for further announcements as the full list continues to grow.
Beyond the musical performances, BTM 2026 will host high-level discussions that tackle the industry’s pressing issues. The event will kick off with a special 24th anniversary premiere of Steve Coogan’s 24 Hour Party People, ahead of the show’s 4K rerelease. This nostalgic moment sets the stage for forward-looking conversations.
Further elevating the event’s intellectual scope, Prime Minister Andy Burnham will convene the ‘All Content Global AI Summit’ at Beyond The Music. This summit is scheduled to close on October 9, offering a crucial opportunity to discuss the intersection of technology, content, and culture.
Andy Burnham’s participation underscores the festival’s commitment to systemic change. As a founder of Beyond The Music, he champions the idea that Greater Manchester must continue to stand up for the people behind the music, ensuring they are recognized, rewarded, and able to build sustainable careers.
This commitment to grassroots support is central to the event. Burnham highlighted the dire need to support grassroots music venues and new artists across the UK. This focus is reflected in recent industry movements, such as the decision by Coldplay to introduce a ticket levy, which the government has supported, aiming to save grassroots venues and artists.
The energy is palpable, blending cutting-edge artistic performances with serious policy discussions. Beyond The Music 2026 promises to be a landmark event, not just for the artists it features, but for the conversations it sparks about creating a fairer, more vibrant creative economy.
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