Music in 2026: New albums, major tours and will Oasis return to Knebworth?
From Beyoncé and BTS to AI backlash, festival gaps and stadium-filling tours
As 2025 comes to a close, attention turns to what 2026 could bring for music fans after a transitional year marked by fewer blockbuster releases and unusually static charts. While only a handful of songs dominated the number one spot, audiences increasingly gravitated toward experimental and genre-blending records from artists such as Rosalía, Geese, Jade Thirlwall and Lily Allen, signalling a shift away from playlist-driven pop toward more distinctive sounds.
The year ahead will arrive with a notable gap in the live calendar as Glastonbury takes a fallow year, but the wider festival circuit remains packed. Reading and Leeds, Latitude, End of the Road and BST Hyde Park all boast heavyweight line-ups, while Pitbull’s headline slot in London stands out as one of the summer’s biggest bookings. Major tours from global stars are expected to keep stadiums and arenas full despite rising ticket prices.
Speculation is also swirling around Oasis after the band hinted at future plans following their 2025 comeback tour. Rumours of a return to Knebworth Castle persist, though the group has suggested a pause for reflection, leaving fans watching closely for any announcement in 2026.
On the release front, several major artists are preparing new albums. Beyoncé is expected to continue her multi-part project following Renaissance and Cowboy Carter, while Harry Styles, Charli XCX, Lana Del Rey, Gorillaz, Madonna, Raye, Robyn and Carly Rae Jepsen have all confirmed new music is in progress. Rock and pop veterans, including Bob Dylan, U2, The Rolling Stones, The xx and Sam Fender, are also reportedly back in the studio.
Artificial intelligence is set to be one of the year's most contentious issues, with growing concern over AI-generated music and vocal cloning. As one AI-powered track edges closer to mainstream success, a counter-movement toward live instrumentation and organic recording methods is already gaining momentum among artists and fans alike.
K-pop is poised for a major resurgence as BTS returns with a new album and tour after completing military service, while Blackpink prepare their own comeback. Rising multinational group Katseye is tipped to break through globally after viral success and high-profile festival appearances.
With anniversary tours, stadium residencies and some of the biggest names in music planning releases and road shows, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by blockbuster returns, creative backlash against AI, and renewed competition for fans’ attention — and their wallets.
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