The artistic highlight of London's summer calendar rolls around once more, this time curated by acclaimed, international star, London's very own Little Simz.
London’s iconic Meltdown Festival will reach new heights in 2025 as Mercury Prize-winning artist Little Simz takes the reins as curator. Held at the legendary Southbank Centre, this year’s edition promises to be a groundbreaking celebration of hip-hop, neo-soul, jazz, and experimental sounds, handpicked by one of the UK’s most visionary artists.
Fresh off the global success of her critically acclaimed albums Sometimes I Might Be Introvert and NO THANK YOU, Simz brings her genre-blurring artistry and cultural activism to Meltdown’s storied legacy. Expect a diverse lineup of global stars, underground pioneers, and multidisciplinary collaborators, reflecting her own musical evolution and commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices.
Simz is set to deliver a career-spanning headline show with full live band and special guests, with unique cross-genre team-ups between her Souls Records collective and surprise international acts. After-hours, patrons are treated to unique sets blending UK rap, afrobeats, and electronic beats in the Queen Elizabeth Hall foyer. Additionally, screenings and discussions expanding on the social themes central to her work.
The Islington artists is also showcasing some of her favourites too, including The Streets, Mahalia, BADBADNOTGOOD, Lola Young, Ghetts, Nubiya Garcia, James Blake, and many, many more. You can see the full line-up here
As the youngest British headliner in Meltdown’s 30-year history, Simz follows in the footsteps of David Bowie, David Byrne, Patti Smith, and Grace Jones – cementing her status as a generational icon.