We Out Here Festival has revealed the second wave of artists for its 2026 edition, adding more big names to an already hefty bill that continues to blur the lines between jazz, soul, hip hop, electronic music and global sounds.
Now entering its seventh year, Gilles Peterson’s Dorset-based festival continues to celebrate collective musical discovery, with more artists, one-off performances and programme details still to come. True to the festival’s ethos, the latest names span generations and geographies, balancing foundational figures with forward-thinking voices shaping contemporary scenes.
Among the highlights is the return of legendary jazz saxophonist Gary Bartz, who headlined the festival’s inaugural year, alongside south London singer-songwriter Joy Crookes and MOBO-winning composer and saxophonist Shabaka. US jazz-rap pioneers Digable Planets also join the line-up, as does UK hip-hop stalwart Kofi Stone. One of the most distinctive additions is Dave Okumu Presents DVTN: A Prayer For D’Angelo, a specially commissioned tribute to the late neo-soul icon, performed by Okumu and a collective of close collaborators.
The announcement also strengthens We Out Here’s reputation as a DJ-led destination, with sets confirmed from Calibre, Coco Maria, Colleen ‘Cosmo’ Murphy, Jamz Supernova, Kenny Dope, Nightmares On Wax, Mr Scruff, Wookie and Iration Steppas among many others. Live performances will come from artists including James K, John Glacier, Blawan, Actress, Amaro Freitas and The Heliocentrics.
Festival tickets are available from weoutherefestival.com/tickets
