Southampton Summer Sessions
Southampton’s Guildhall Square will once again come alive with the return of Southampton Summer Sessions. The square will transform into a vibrant live music hub, hosting incredible artists from around the globe for the much-anticipated TK Maxx Presents Southampton Summer Sessions. Keep reading to find out who’s taking the stage!
For the full line up, venue information, FAQs and how to get your tickets, please go to Southampton Summer Sessions website. For the official residents guide click here.
We will be updating this page regularly so be sure to check back here soon for all the latest information.
If you have any questions about Summer Sessions, please go here.
Amy McDonald - Friday 12 June
Special guests and support: The Coral
Scottish singer-songwriter Amy Macdonald burst onto the global music scene with her 2007 debut album This Is the Life, whose title track became an instant anthem across Europe. Born in Bishopbriggs near Glasgow, she taught herself guitar as a teenager and swiftly moved from open‐mic nights to international stages. Over the years she has sold over 12 million records worldwide, achieved multiple chart-topping albums, and earned a devoted following for her spirited voice, poignant songwriting and live charisma. Book here.
Alex James Brit Pop Classical - Saturday 13 June
Bringing the biggest hits of the Britpop era to life with the epic scale of a full live orchestra, the one- of-a-kind live experience is created and performed by Blur bassist Alex James. The dynamic show takes the best songs from a golden age of British music — including classic tunes from Blur, Oasis, Pulp, Supergrass, The Verve and beyond — and performs them in a powerful symphonic format alongside guest vocalists from the London Concert Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. Book here.
Pete Tong Ibiza Classics - Sunday 14 June
Pete Tong, hailing from Dartford, has undeniably emerged as one of the foremost figures in the electronic dance music scene. Throughout his remarkable career spanning over 30 years, the DJ, broadcaster, and producer has committed himself to transforming dance music into a global genre. HisIbiza Classics project, marked by numerous live orchestral performances at iconic venues worldwide, including California’s Hollywood Bowl, London's O2 Arena, and all across Ibiza, as well as the release of three chart-topping albums 'Classic House', 'Ibiza Classics', and 'Chilled Classics', continues to push boundaries across the globe.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the music and broadcast industries over his lifelong dedication to music, Pete Tong MBE was honoured with the prestigious Music Industry Trusts Award in 2021. Book here.
The Beach Boys - Thursday 18 June
Support: 10cc
The Beach Boys – who have become synonymous with the California lifestyle and an American icon to fans around the world – will salute 60 years of Pet Sounds at Southampton Summer Sessions. Since the band’s co-founder, lead-singer and chief lyricist Mike Love penned the lyrics to The Beach Boys’ first hit “Surfin’” in 1961, dozens of the band’s chart toppers have become eternal anthems of American youth: “Surfin USA’”, “Fun, Fun, Fun|, “I Get Around”, “California Girls”, “Help Me Rhonda”, “Barbara Ann”, “Good Vibrations”, “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”, “Rock and Roll Music” and “Kokomo”.
Support on the evening will come from legendary art-pop band 10cc. With a career that has spanned over five decades and with over 30 million albums sold to date. Formed in Stockport in 1972, 10cc are best known for hits like ‘I’m Not In Love’, ‘Dreadlock Holiday’ and ‘Rubber Bullets. Book here.
Orchestral Manoeuvres in The Dark (OMD) - Friday 19 June
OMD, Peter Hook and The Light, Andrew Cushin
Formed in Merseyside in 1978, OMD are pioneers of British synth-pop, blending experimental electronic sounds with unforgettable pop melodies. Co-founders Andy McCluskey (vocals, bass) and Paul Humphreys (keyboards, vocals) led the band through a string of iconic hits — including “Enola Gay” and “If You Leave”. After decades of influence, a reunion in 2006 reignited their creative spark, and today they continue to delight audiences globally with a live show that celebrates their rich catalogue and enduring legacy. Book here.
Paul Weller - Saturday 20 June
With a career spanning five decades and 28 studio albums, Paul Weller has left an indelible mark on British music — from his early days in The Jam and The Style Council to his celebrated solo work like Wild Wood and Stanley Road. Expect a dynamic set that weaves together rock, soul and timeless classics with his modern creative spirit. Book here.
Billy Ocean - Sunday 21 June
Support from Marti Pellow
Billy Ocean is one of the biggest recording stars Britain has ever produced, with over thirty million record sales, a pile of Gold and Platinum records across the globe and a string of worldwide number ones including in the USA, Australia, Germany, Holland, and the UK.
In 2020 Billy was awarded an MBE for services to music. He also holds a Grammy award for best male R&B Vocal Performance, the Ivor Novello Award for International Achievement, two Billboard Music awards, the 2010 MOBO lifetime achievement award, and an Honorary Doctorate in music from Westminster University.
These days Billy's back onstage where he belongs. A recent string of UK festival appearances and headline dates across Europe and the US, will be followed next year with a UK headline tour. Book here.
Skunk Anansie & Garbage - Tuesday 23 June
This powerhouse double‑bill brings together two of alternative rock’s most iconic and influential acts. Garbage, fronted by the fearless Shirley Manson, fuse gritty rock riffs with electronic, trip‑hop and industrial textures — their sound has been described as “sci‑fi pop.”
Joining them is Skunk Anansie, the bold British rock band led by the commanding Skin. Formed in 1994, their music combines heavy guitar, punk energy and socially conscious lyrics. Book here.
Bowling for Soup - Friday 26 June
Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls
Texan pop-punk favourites Bowling for Soup bring their high-energy live show to Southampton Summer Sessions, armed with a catalogue of instantly recognisable anthems and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. Formed in Wichita Falls, Texas in 1994, the band rose to international fame with hits including “Girl All the Bad Guys Want”, “1985”, “Almost” and “High School Never Ends”. Known for their infectious hooks, nostalgic pop-culture references and crowd-pleasing humour, Bowling for Soup have built a loyal global fanbase and remain one of pop-punk’s most enduring live acts. Book here.
Deacon Blue - Saturday 27 June
Support: Lightning Seeds
Deacon Blue are a celebrated Scottish pop-rock band, formed in Glasgow in 1985. Led by frontman Ricky Ross and vocalist Lorraine McIntosh, the group became known for their soulful, melodic sound and deeply relatable lyrics. Their debut album Raintown (1987) became a classic, and they followed it with chart-topping success — including their UK number-one album When the World Knows Your Name. Book here.
Getting Here
Guildhall Square is located in the heart of Southampton's Cultural Quarter, which is well-connected and easily accessible by train, coach, car, bus, and ferry. Click here to start planning your journey.
Once you arrive, you’ll find the city is very walkable, with key spots for shopping, dining, and other attractions just a 5–10 minute stroll from the Square. To help you get your bearings, download our free visitor map here—it’s divided into a handy grid, with each square representing a 5-minute walk.
Places to stay
From boutique hotels to B&B's, there are plenty of great places to stay that are close by to all the action in Guildhall Square. Visit our accommodation page to discover a range of options for every group size and budget.
Food and drink
Southampton is home to a fantastic range of restaurants, pubs, bars and cafes, perfect to keep you fuelled up before and after performances. From aromatic curries and fry-ups to freshly prepared sushi and classic pub favourites, there is lots to try!
Head to our food and drink page to explore some great places to dine or head to our al fresco blog for some local spots with outdoor seating to soak up some more sunshine.
Things to do
Make the most of your visit and plan some time to do a bit of exploring! Southampton has plenty to offer for all ages—from museums and art galleries to walking trails, guided tours and excellent shopping — you can easily make a whole day - or two - out of it. Visit our itineraries page or #OurSouthampton blog for some local inspiration.
More events in Southampton
Summer Sessions marks the beginning of an exciting line-up of events in the city—and this year is packed! From cultural celebrations like Southampton Mela Festival and Southampton Pride, to music-filled weekends like Music in the City, and lively seasonal events such as Oktoberfest, there’s plenty to look forward to. Visit our top events page to find out more.
