Manchester's Beyond The Music Announces First Speaker Lineup for 2026 Event

For Stacey Tang, co-president of RCA Records UK, the success of the 2026 BRIT Awards in Manchester was a hard-fought victory. As a key member of the organizing committee, she played a pivotal role in convincing the ceremony to move outside of London for the first time. This bold move not only brought international attention to Manchester but also paved the way for the city to become a hub for the UK music industry. Tang's success is evidence of her dedication to the industry and her ability to bring people together. With Beyond The Music conference and festival just around the corner, music lovers and industry professionals alike are eager to see what this year's event has in store.

The Beyond The Music conference and festival is a unique opportunity for music professionals to come together and share their knowledge and expertise. This year's event, taking place at MediaCity UK complex in Salford, Greater Manchester, will feature an array of U.K.-based and international industry figures. From executives to artists, the lineup is a who's who of the music industry. Stacey Tang, Bev Craig, and Tommas Arnby will share the stage with industry heavyweights like Dr. Jo Twist, Tom Gray, and Dan Lambert. With such a diverse range of speakers, attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in the music industry.

Bev Craig, the newly appointed Mayor of Greater Manchester, will be speaking at the event, bringing her unique perspective as a leader in the region. Her involvement in the Beyond The Music conference underscores Manchester's growing reputation as a hub for the music industry. With the success of the 2026 BRIT Awards and the establishment of the Beyond The Music conference, the city is firmly establishing itself as a key player in the UK music scene. The fact that the conference is being held at MediaCity UK, a hub for creative industries, further solidifies Manchester's position as a go-to destination for music professionals.

While the music industry is experiencing a period of growth and innovation, there are still challenges to be addressed. The rise of All Content AI, a summit convened by Andy Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester and now UK Prime Minister, highlights the need for the industry to adapt to the changing landscape. The summit will explore the implications of AI on the music industry, from creation to consumption. With the likes of Burnham, Stacey Tang, and Dr. Jo Twist involved in the summit, attendees can expect a thought-provoking discussion on the future of music in the age of AI.

With the Beyond The Music conference and festival just around the corner, music lovers and industry professionals alike are abuzz with anticipation. The lineup of speakers is evidence of the industry's diversity and innovation. As Stacey Tang's success with the 2026 BRIT Awards demonstrates, Manchester is firmly establishing itself as a hub for the music industry. With the city's rich cultural heritage, innovative spirit, and passionate community, the future looks bright for Manchester's music scene.

I predict that Manchester's Beyond The Music conference will be a turning point for the music industry, providing a platform for new ideas, innovation, and collaboration. As the industry continues to evolve, Manchester is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of music.