Keo to Headline Billboard U.K. Stage at The Great Escape

Billboard U.K. is heading down to the seaside city of Brighton for a second consecutive year, as part of an exclusive stage takeover at The Great Escape.

The festival, which takes place May 13-16, will play host to the latest Billboard U.K. Live event, following last year’s headline performance from English Teacher. 

For the 2026 edition, rising rockers Keo will top the bill, continuing a hot streak that has seen them sell out a spring U.K. and Ireland headline tour, and land a major label deal with Island.

Having formed on the London gig circuit shortly after lockdown, the band came to prominence last summer with the release of their Siren EP. They have appeared at festivals such as Reading & Leeds and ESNS, and also opened up for Kings of Leon at BST Hyde Park.

Speaking on the announcement, Thomas Smith, editor of Billboard U.K. says: “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. 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.”

The Great Escape takes place each May, showcasing up-and-coming talent from the U.K., Ireland, and beyond. Over the course of four days, a plethora of artists spanning the musical spectrum perform across Brighton’s numerous independent venues. The event also features industry panels and networking. Tickets are available through the festival’s official website.

Alongside Keo, over 130 additional names have been announced for this year’s festival, including genre-clashing icon Peaches, who will headline a Spotlight Show at Brighton Dome Concert Hall on May 15.

Other names on the lineup include: Bleech 9:3, Lord Apex, Villanelle, Ladylike, Casual Smart, Bathing Suits, Theatre, Jamaica Moana, Pozzy, Blue Bendy and Natalie Wildgoose. 

Stay tuned for further announcements related to the Billboard U.K. Live stage and The Great Escape.