The Great Escape is back for 2025, and we're thrilled to unveil the first keynote speaker and featured sessions for this year's conference, taking place from 14th - 17th May in Brighton.

JORDAN STEPHENS CONFIRMED AS FIRST KEYNOTE
Leading this year's speaker lineup is Jordan Stephens?musician, actor, writer, and one-half of Rizzle Kicks?who will take to the stage on Saturday 17th May for an exclusive conversation with award-winning DJ and presenter Abbie McCarthy. As the first-ever recipient of the "Grassroots Hero' award from our conference partners Youth Music, Jordan will reflect on his multifaceted career, from chart-topping music to mental health advocacy.

Jordan Stephens said:

"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. Sitting down with Abbie to unpack that journey and celebrate the grassroots movements that keep this industry alive is going to be something special."

MORE UNMISSABLE TALKS & INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Alongside our keynote, this year's conference will feature insightful discussions and expert-led sessions from some of the biggest names in the industry. Highlights include:

Simon Raymonde (Cocteau Twins, Bella Union) & Pat Nevin (Broadcaster, DJ, Footballer) - A deep dive into music, fandom, and Simon's new book In One Ear: Cocteau Twins, Ivor Raymonde and Me.

Mark Mulligan (MIDiA Research) - A must-see session exploring the latest trends in streaming, creator economies, and industry forecasts.

Industry Panels & Workshops - Featuring experts from BBC Radio 1, SoundCloud, Songkick, PPL, Pollstar, Audio Network, Climate Live, and more, covering topics from AI in music to the cost of touring, fair compensation, and independent artist sustainability.

THE RETURN OF THE STEVE STRANGE AWARD
The Great Escape is proud to confirm the return of the Steve Strange Award, celebrating rising industry talent in memory of the legendary agent Steve Strange. The winner will receive a £5,000 cash prize, with the announcement taking place on Monday 19th May.

DON'T MISS OUT - GET YOUR DELEGATE PASS NOW!
The Great Escape Conference is where the future of music is shaped. Be part of the conversation in Brighton this May.

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