Beyond The Music confirms conference programme for 2026 edition
Beyond The Music has announced the details of its three-day conference programme for this year's edition, which will take place in MediaCity, Salford for the first time between 6-9 October.
The conference programme will take place between 7-9 October, and feature a series of summits, keynote conversations with artists and music industry figures, lectures, and networking events. Some of the topics to be discussed include the impact of catalogue acquisition on creators and fans, addressing the creative wealth gap, the protection of art as the presence of AI increases, and more.
The global music and creative industry forum and new music showcase festival is set to open on 6 October with a special 24th anniversary premiere of 24 Hour Party People ahead of the film’s re-release in cinemas nationwide.
The 2002 film is set in 1976 Manchester and tells the story of Factory Records, the independent label home of iconic bands including Joy Division and New Order, while highlighting Manchester's vibrant music scene between the 1970s to 1990s. Alongside the screening, a keynote conversation will be held with director Michael Winterbottom and actor Steve Coogan, who played the role of Factory Records co-founder Tony Wilson.
In addition to the conferences and screening, Beyond The Music will also host a range of new and established talent across the MediaCity and MediaCity Studios campus. The festival has previously announced Kofi Stone, Loose Articles, Cutscene, Mouth Ulcers, and more as part of this year's line-up.
Tickets for Beyond The Music 2026 are on sale now. For more information, visit beyondthemusic.co.uk
Sign up to Best Fit's Substack for regular dispatches from the world of pop culture