Playlist: futuretense 2026

Twice monthly, we host futuretense here at the Southbank Centre; gigs that provide a platform for up-and-coming musicians, while giving you an opportunity to hear the sound of the future, for free.

As our contemporary music programming co-ordinator Edith Odame Kwakye explains, ‘In a climate where grassroots venues are disappearing, futuretense is one of the ways the Southbank Centre is investing in the future of British music. In championing artists across spoken word, punk, jazz, and sounds of the diaspora we’re reflecting the incredible vitality of contemporary British music right now – it’s never been a more exciting time!’

But futuretense isn’t just about giving you an opportunity to find your next favourite artist, it’s also about helping those artists grow. ‘For many artists, this is their first opportunity to work with an organisation of this scale,’ explains Odame Kwakye. ‘That means collaborating directly with our production team, taking full ownership of their technical vision, and honing their craft in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Facilitating these early, foundational moments helps artists build real connection with audiences and is a vital testing ground where they can take risks, build stage presence, and lay the groundwork for long-term success.’

To give you a flavour of just who you can encounter at futuretense, we’ve put together this playlist featuring all the acts who’ve joined us, or are set to join us, in 2026. So what are you waiting for? Grab your headphones and dive straight in… and make a note to join us for an upcoming futuretense gig while you’re at it.