Today, Southampton Summer Sessions has announced Skunk Anansie and Garbage as the latest headliners for 2026. The two musical powerhouses will team up to perform together in Guildhall Square on Tuesday 23 June 2026.
Formed in London in 1994, Skunk Anansie are known for their powerful fusion of hard rock, punk and funk influences. Fronted by charismatic and dynamic Skin, whose distinctive voice and commanding stage presence have become their signature, the band broke through with explosive hits like ‘Weak’, ‘Hedonism (Just Because You Feel Goo)’ and ‘Charity’.
Their music often tackles political and social issues, addressing themes of race, gender and power with raw emotion and unapologetic energy. The band’s diverse sound – ranging from aggressive riffs to soulful ballads – helped define the alternative rock landscape of the 1990s.
After a hiatus in the early 2000s, Skunk Anansie reunited in 2009, with their latest top 10 album, critically and commercially acclaimed The Painful Truth, reaffirming their reputation as one of the most electrifying and thought-provoking bands in British rock.
Garbage are an alternative rock band formed in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1993, comprised of Scottish lead vocalist Shirley Manson and American musicians Duke Erikson, Steve Marker and Butch Vig.
The band became known for their innovative fusion of rock, electronica, grunge and pop, creating a dark yet polished sound that stood out amongst the 1990s music scene. Their self-titled debut album Garbage (1995) produced hits like ‘Stupid Girl’ and ‘Only Happy When It Rains’, earning them critical acclaim and international success.
The band continue to evolve, with more recent albums such as Version 2.0 and Beautiful Garbage exploring themes of identity, technology and emotional complexity. With Manson’s commanding presence and band’s layered production, Garbage remain a pioneering force in modern alternative music.
An unmissable celebration of globally renowned artists set against the backdrop of the city’s cultural centre, Summer Sessions brings world-class music experiences and iconic global artists right to the heart of Southampton.
Held in Guildhall Square, at the centre of the city’s bustling Cultural Quarter, Skunk Anansie & Garbage join previously announced headliners Alex James’ Britpop Classical, Billy Ocean, Pete Tong Ibiza Classics, Deacon Blue, OMD and Paul Weller at Southampton Summer Sessions 2026, plus more to be announced.
Tickets for Skunk Anansie & Garbage will be available from 10am on Friday 14 November.
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