The Great Escape Announce First Speakers for 2025 Conference, Including Rizzle Kicks’ Jordan Stephens
The Great Escape has confirmed its first wave of keynote speakers for its 2025 conference, led by Jordan Stephens of Rizzle Kicks.
The Brighton festival will be returning from May 14 to 17, and will play host to a raft of speakers from across the industry. Rapper and broadcaster Stephens will be joined by BBC Introducing DJ Abbie McCarthy to discuss his career thus far, offering insights into the evolving music landscape.
Stephens — who was born in Brighton — has also been named the first-ever recipient of the Grassroots Hero award from conference collaborators Youth Music. The national charity invests in creative projects for young people experiencing challenging circumstances.
“I’m buzzing to be part of The Great Escape’s conference this year. Music has always been my foundation, but my career has taken me down so many unexpected paths — from acting to writing to mental health advocacy,” he said in a statement. “Sitting down with Abbie to unpack that journey and celebrate the grassroots movements that are keeping this industry alive is going to be something special.”
Another of the keynote speeches will be delivered by Scottish broadcaster, footballer and DJ Pat Nevin, who will be joined by Simon Raymonde, Cocteau Twins member and the founder of Bella Union records.
Meanwhile, Mark Mulligan is scheduled to lead the conference’s opening conversation on Thursday, May 15. During his talk, the music analyst and MIDiA Research founder will explore trends in streaming and creator economies.
Other additions to the conference lineup include Songkick’s Head of Product Jordan Gemli, SoundCloud’s Industry Relations Manager Hope Hale and BBC Radio 1 presenter Jodie Bryant.
Earlier this month, it was announced that Mercury Prize winners English Teacher will headline The Beach stage at The Great Escape as part of the Billboard U.K. Live takeover. Additional names will be added to the stage’s bill in the coming weeks.
Speaking on the announcement, Mo Ghoneim, president of Billboard U.K., said: “The Great Escape has long been a launchpad for breakthrough artists, making it the perfect partner for Billboard U.K. Live’s debut. With Billboard Live, we’re creating immersive experiences that connect fans with the artists shaping the future of music. English Teacher are leading this new wave, and we’re excited to have them headline our stage as we bring Billboard U.K. Live to one of the U.K.’s most essential festivals.”
Elsewhere, the likes of Chloe Slater, Clara Mann, Corto.Alto, Jordan Adetunji and Luvcat are set to perform at the new music showcase. More names are expected to be announced in the coming months.
The Great Escape has a storied history of playing a role in launching the careers of emerging artists. Previous performers at the festival include Charli XCX, Stormzy, Fontaines D.C., Sam Fender, Sigrid and more.
Sophie Williams
Billboard
