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Cross The Tracks, situated in Brockwell Park, has established itself as more than just a festival; it’s an innovative space where community, culture and music unite to celebrate everything jazz, funk and soul. Today, they announce an incredible first wave of acts for their 2026 lineup, headlined by Mercury Prize-winning artist Little Simz.
Crowned as one of the most exciting voices to have emerged out of Britain, Little Simz is an unstoppable force whose creative ambition continues to grow and expand. Her back-to-back albums Sometimes I Might be Introvert (2021) and NO THANK YOU (2022) were both among the most critically acclaimed records of recent times, establishing her as a singular and unique voice in British music. Now, she is ready to enter the next chapter of her career with her sixth studio album, Lotus. Fresh off the buzz of her biggest live shows to date at Manchester’s Co-op Live and London’s The O2, Simz is setting the stage for her first-ever headline festival performance at Cross The Tracks 2026.
She’ll be joined by London-based Afrobeat collective KOKOROKO, the infectious and original voice of Nigerian-born, London-based Obongjayar, celebrated neo-soul musician Lady Wray, rising Scottish soul star Brooke Combe, and genre-blending Irish hip hop band Bricknasty. Also new to the bill is multi-instrumentalist SHOLTO, London-based singer-songwriter Bel Cobain, soul and R&B trio The Womack Sisters, legendary reggae sound system Channel One, member of the Brighter Days Family Reek0, Franky Bones Ensemble with artist and producer Goya Gumbani and respected rapper Sonnyjim. Plus, genre-blending electronic duo 2fox and the London two-piece, who draw inspiration from their Ethiopian roots, ZENA.
Each year, Cross The Tracks brings together a community of genuine music lovers, creating an extraordinary atmosphere for both artists and festival-goers. Since its inception, Cross The Tracks has ensured a 50/50 mix of genders on its line-ups, helping cement the festival as a diverse platform for emerging and homegrown artists alongside international talent.
With its renowned programme celebrating the past, present and future of jazz, funk and soul, Cross The Tracks 2025 set the bar high with a stellar lineup including Jordan Rakei, Free Nationals, Cymande, BaSeun Kuti & Egypt 80, Lynda Dawn, RUBII, BexBlu, Olympia Vitalis, and headliners Ezra Collective and Michael Kiwanuka.
2025 was a big year to follow, but with this standout first wave of acts, Cross The Tracks is set to be an unmissable event in the 2026 festival calendar.
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