Keo to Perform at The Great Escape UK | Billboard Stage

Brighton is set to host the latest Billboard U.K. Live event, marking the second consecutive year the seaside city will welcome the music showcase as part of The Great Escape festival.

Rising Rockers Keo to Headline Billboard U.K.’s Return to The Great Escape

The festival, running May 13-16, will feature a headline performance from Keo, following english Teacher’s set last year.

• The Great escape festival takes place in Brighton, U.K.,from May 13-16.
• Keo, who recently completed a sold-out U.K. and Ireland tour, will headline the Billboard U.K. Live stage.
• Over 130 artists are slated to perform, including Peaches and Bleech 9:3.
• The event showcases emerging talent from the U.K.,Ireland,and beyond,alongside industry panels and networking opportunities.

Keo’s performance continues a remarkable ascent for the band, who have secured a major label deal with Island records after gaining traction on the London gig circuit following the pandemic. What makes a band stand out in today’s crowded music scene? Keo’s success demonstrates the power of live performance and a strong EP release in capturing industry attention.

The band first came to prominence last summer with the release of their Siren EP, and have since shared stages with established acts like kings of leon at BST Hyde Park and appeared at prominent festivals including Reading & Leeds and ESNS.

Did you know?-The Great Escape festival began in 2006, founded by promoters who wanted to create a festival focused on new music discovery.

Pro tip-Networking is key at The Great Escape. Attend panels and events to connect with industry professionals and fellow music lovers.

Reader question-What emerging artists are you most excited to see at The Great Escape this year? share your thoughts!

“the Great Escape has long been a champion for spotlighting and supporting emerging talent, and this is a passion shared by the Billboard U.K. team,” said Thomas Smith, editor of Billboard U.K. “Following last year’s stage takeover, we’re thrilled to be returning once again in 2026 and to be hosting a stellar headline set from Keo, one of the most exciting (and loudest) prospects in the U.K. scene right now. See you in the pit.”

A Diverse Lineup Beyond Keo

The great Escape,known for showcasing up-and-coming talent from the U.K., Ireland, and beyond, boasts a diverse lineup this year. Alongside Keo, over 130 artists are scheduled to perform across Brighton’s self-reliant venues over the four-day event.

Genre-clashing icon peaches will headline a Spotlight Show at Brighton Dome Concert Hall on May 15. Additional artists confirmed to perform include bleech 9:3,Lord Apex,Villanelle,Ladylike,Casual Smart,Bathing Suits,Theatre,Jamaica Moana,Pozzy,Blue Bendy and Natalie Wildgoose.

tickets for The Great Escape are available through the festival’s official website.

Further announcements regarding the Bill