Zach Top, Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn Lead a Landmark Year for Country Music
Country 2 Country (C2C) has revealed its 2026 headliners — and the lineup is nothing short of spectacular. From Friday 13th to Sunday 15th March 2026, the UK’s flagship country music festival returns to The O2 London, OVO Hydro Glasgow, and The SSE Arena Belfast with a trio of genre-defining artists: Zach Top, Keith Urban, and Brooks & Dunn.
Joining them are Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson, and Drake Milligan — a supporting cast that blends chart-topping success with fresh energy and undeniable stage presence. Each artist will rotate across the three cities, ensuring that fans in London, Glasgow, and Belfast experience a full arena set from every headliner over the course of the weekend.
This rotating format has become a hallmark of C2C, offering a rare opportunity for UK audiences to see multiple major acts in one weekend — not just once, but three times over. It’s a feat of programming that reflects the festival’s ambition and its deep commitment to the country music community on both sides of the Atlantic.
A Festival That Changed the Landscape
Since its launch in 2013, C2C has transformed the UK country music scene. What began as a bold experiment — bringing Nashville’s biggest names to British arenas — has grown into a cultural institution. For many fans, C2C isn’t just a weekend of music; it’s a pilgrimage, a reunion, and a celebration of a genre that’s found a passionate and growing audience far from its Southern roots.
The festival has played a pivotal role in expanding country music’s reach in the UK. It’s helped break down stereotypes, introduced new generations to the genre’s emotional depth and musical diversity, and created a platform for British country artists to share stages with global icons. Past headliners have included Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Thomas Rhett, Miranda Lambert, and Chris Stapleton — artists whose presence has helped validate and elevate the UK scene.
Beyond the main stage, C2C’s daytime programming — from songwriter rounds and acoustic sets to pop-up stages and fan meetups — fosters a sense of intimacy and discovery. It’s where fans fall in love with new voices, where artists connect directly with audiences, and where the spirit of country music — storytelling, community, and connection — comes alive.
2026: A Lineup That Bridges Generations
This year’s headliners reflect the genre’s evolving landscape. Zach Top brings a neo-traditional sound that’s winning over purists and new fans alike. Keith Urban, a global superstar with roots in both Nashville and Australia, continues to push sonic boundaries while delivering electrifying live shows. And Brooks & Dunn, one of country’s most iconic duos, offer a legacy set that’s sure to be packed with hits and heart.
The addition of Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson, and Drake Milligan adds depth and variety — from McCreery’s rich baritone and storytelling chops to Dickerson’s pop-infused anthems and Milligan’s throwback charisma.
Certainly — here’s a dedicated section that explores how C2C has supported and elevated UK country artists, written in a tone that aligns with CountryMusic.co.uk’s editorial voice:
Amplifying Homegrown Talent: C2C’s Impact on UK Country Artists
While Country 2 Country is best known for bringing Nashville’s biggest stars to British arenas, its influence on the UK’s own country music scene has been equally transformative. Over the past decade, C2C has become a vital launchpad for homegrown talent — offering UK artists a rare chance to perform on the same stages as global icons and connect with thousands of passionate fans.
From early slots on pop-up stages to coveted arena support slots, C2C has helped spotlight artists like The Shires, Ward Thomas, Twinnie, Kezia Gill, and Morganway, giving them exposure that’s often hard to come by in a genre still carving out mainstream space in the UK. For many, it’s been a career-defining moment — a chance to prove that British country music isn’t just thriving, but evolving with its own distinct voice.
The festival’s daytime programming, including songwriter rounds and acoustic showcases, has also nurtured a deeper appreciation for the craft behind the music. UK artists are given space to share their stories, build fanbases, and network with industry professionals from both sides of the Atlantic. It’s not just about performance — it’s about community, mentorship, and momentum.
C2C’s commitment to UK talent sends a powerful message: that country music isn’t confined to geography. It’s a genre built on storytelling, and British artists have plenty to say. By placing them alongside the genre’s biggest names, C2C has helped validate their artistry and accelerate the growth of a vibrant, diverse UK country scene.
As the 2026 lineup rolls out, fans can expect another strong showing from British acts and another opportunity to witness the future of UK country music in real time.
Tickets On Sale This Friday
Tickets for C2C UK 2026 go on sale Friday 26th September at 10AM via c2c-countrytocountry.com. With a lineup this strong and a fanbase that grows every year, early booking is essential.
Whether you’re a longtime devotee or a curious newcomer, C2C offers something rare: a chance to experience the full spectrum of country music — past, present, and future in one unforgettable weekend.
Stay tuned to CountryMusic.co.uk for lineup breakdowns, artist interviews, and behind-the-scenes coverage as we count down to C2C 2026.
