Beyond The Music 2026: 10 Must-See Panels and Performances You Can’t Miss

# Greater Manchester Prepares to Host the 2026 Beyond The Music Summit

The music industry is turning its gaze toward Greater Manchester this coming week, from October 6-9, as the city plays host to the highly anticipated Beyond The Music event. This gathering serves as a vital nexus for the U.K. creative sector, blending high-level policy discussions with live showcases and keynote addresses from the architects of modern music.

## Industry Titans Converge in the North
The event boasts an impressive roster of speakers, reflecting the diverse leadership currently shaping the British music landscape. Attendees can expect insights from heavyweights such as Capitol Records U.K. President Jo Charrington and RCA Records U.K. Co-President Stacey Tang, who also serves as the chair for the BRIT Awards committee.

The programming extends beyond label executives, featuring strategic voices like Yungblud’s manager, Tommas Arnby, and Northern Quarter CEO Michael Adex. Furthermore, the summit will host delegations from major trade bodies, including the BPI, U.K. Music, and The Ivors Academy, ensuring that the dialogue remains grounded in the current regulatory and commercial realities of the business.

## Billboard U.K. and the Future of Leadership
A major highlight of this year’s schedule is the involvement of Billboard U.K., which is set to unveil its first-ever 40 Under 40 list. This initiative aims to spotlight the next generation of industry disruptors. The celebration of these honorees will take place on Wednesday, October 7, with an opening address delivered by the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Bev Craig.

## Addressing the AI Frontier
As the industry grapples with rapid technological shifts, the final day of the conference will pivot toward innovation. A dedicated AI-focused summit will be spearheaded by the U.K.’s Prime Minister, Andy Burnham. Since taking office in July, Burnham has been vocal about the intersection of regional economic growth and the creative arts. His participation underscores the government’s increasing interest in how artificial intelligence will redefine copyright, production, and artist compensation in the coming decade.

With the global music market projected to reach significant new valuation heights by 2030, events like Beyond The Music are essential for fostering the collaboration needed to navigate these changes. Alice Webb, a key figure behind the event’s organization, anticipates that the diverse range of panels will provide a comprehensive roadmap for the industry’s future.

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