Sound City 2026 announces first wave of artists

Sound City 2026 have announced the first wave of artists playing at next year’s festival. Liverpool's multi-venue festival of talent discovery will return to the city centre during next year’s May Bank Holiday Weekend, from Saturday 2nd to Sunday 3rd May 2026, and have an eclectic first wave of talent bringing the sounds of the future. 

The first wave of artists sees rising stars from indie, punk, and pop meet, including Manchester four-piece Westside Cowboy, Scottish soul songwriter Brooke Combe, and Aussie duo Teenage Joans in a rare UK appearance, in addition to Jalen Ngonda, Keo, Cherryholt, Blossom Caldarone, and many more. 

Sound City's Managing Director, Becky Ayres, said of the announcement, “We’re thrilled to share our first wave of acts for Sound City 2026! With Jalen Ngonda and Keo already set to headline, this year’s line-up promises a mix of rising stars, genre-defying talent, and the next generation of music’s biggest names… This first wave gives a glimpse of the unforgettable experiences waiting for audiences in the world capital of music, Liverpool, in 2026.”

In addition to the lineup announcement, the festival’s 2026 Apply to Play portal has opened, once again offering the opportunity for any artist to get into contention as next year’s one’s to watch.

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads, Facebook, and YouTube for the latest music and events content.  

Header image: Westside Cowboy