Harry Styles Reveals Curated Artist Selection for Meltdown Festival in London
Harry Styles has officially announced the lineup of artists he has personally curated for this year's Meltdown festival, set to take place at London's Southbank Centre. The festival, which runs from 11 to 21 June, will showcase a diverse array of musical talents spanning jazz, pop, indie rock, and electronic genres, reflecting Styles' broad artistic influences.
Intimate Performance and Diverse Acts
In addition to performing a solo concert on 16 June at the Royal Festival Hall, Styles has assembled an impressive roster of artists. This intimate show is notably sandwiched between his larger-scale performances at Wembley Stadium, highlighting the festival's unique appeal. The lineup includes cosmic US saxophonist Kamasi Washington, who will deliver two distinct sets: one focusing on his album Fearless Movement and another titled Jazz Legends Reimagined, where he will reinterpret classic jazz works.
Other jazz highlights feature Ethio-jazz legend Mulatu Astatke, returning to the Southbank Centre after a farewell tour last year, alongside UK talents such as drummer Yussef Dayes and reeds/woodwind star Shabaka, who will perform collaboratively with friends. On the indie front, LA rockers Warpaint, making their only gig of the year, and British singer-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya lead the charge, supported by acts like Bar Italia, Stephen Fretwell, and Getdown Services.
Innovative Pop and Electronic Offerings
The festival also spotlights forward-thinking pop artists Erika de Casier and Fousheé, known for their spry and contemporary sounds. Electronic music enthusiasts can look forward to a range of experiences, from the pellucid ambient songcraft of Beverly Glenn-Copeland to improvised works by Jon Hopkins, Maddie Ashman, and Leo Abrahams. High-tempo EDM and trance will be provided by Australia's Ninajirachi, complemented by a DJ set from LCD Soundsystem frontman James Murphy.
Devonté Hynes, best known as Blood Orange, will present his classical music in an ensemble with Adam Tendler, Cæcilie Trier, and Tariq Al-Sabir, while Orlando Weeks, former lead singer of the Maccabees, will offer a hybrid set blending music and storytelling. A separate programme of free and family-friendly events will include appearances from Styles' favourite artists beyond music, as noted by the Southbank Centre.
Styles' Personal Connection to the Lineup
In a statement, Styles expressed his deep connection to the artists involved, saying, "Music is my life; every artist involved in this year's Meltdown festival means so much to me, both as a fan, and a musician. It's a true honour to host legends who have paved the way for the generations that follow them, as well as new acts that have inspired me to push my creative boundaries." This personal curation underscores the festival's theme of celebrating both established and emerging talents.
Tickets for Meltdown go on sale starting 9 April for Southbank members and 10 April for the general public, offering fans a chance to experience this unique musical event in the heart of London.
