Five city-wide events feature artists including Anz, Space Afrika and Nubya Garcia, with 100 percent of net proceeds to be donated to local music charity Brighter Sound.
Scotch whisky brand Johnnie Walker has partnered with NTS to announce Keep Walking Live: Manchester, a three-day city-wide takeover celebrating pioneering music movements across the city. The programme runs from 13–15 March 2026.
Spanning some of Manchester’s most respected venues and cultural spaces – including SOUP, New Century, Eastern Bloc and Impiety Hour – the series brings together standout local names and internationally recognised artists, spotlighting the scenes that continue to shape the city’s musical identity.
The takeover begins on Friday, 13 March at Northern Quarter favourite SOUP. Focusing on UK dance culture, the line-up includes DJ EZ, Manchester’s own Anz, NTS resident Finn, and emerging local talents KD22LR and Tyronwithnoe.
On Saturday, the programme opens with free, bookable DJ workshops at the NTS Manchester Studio, led by residents Finn and Abena. The afternoon then moves to Eastern Bloc for an intergenerational DJ showcase featuring Annabel Fraser, Kim Lana, and Rick.
That evening, KOKOROKO will headline historic venue New Century. The night will also feature saxophonist and producer Venna, a DJ set from Kusasa, and appearances from Charisse C and Captain Lulaz – both alumni of the Johnnie Walker x Dankie Sounds Bold Steps initiative.
The series closes on Sunday at Impiety Hour, the experimental space from the minds behind The White Hotel, for a community-focused ‘Sunday Slow Down’. The daytime programme includes listening sessions and panel discussions with local voices, leading into an intimate finale headlined by Nubya Garcia. She is joined by Space Afrika and Oriki.
With its emphasis on grassroots venues and community-led spaces, Keep Walking Live: Manchester aims to highlight the cultural ecosystems that sustain the city’s creative talent, and the curators and artists pushing its musical future forward.
In support of that mission, 100 percent of net proceeds from the events will go to Manchester music charity Brighter Sound, helping fund local artist development. Through community projects, international exchange and advocacy, Brighter Sound supports emerging talent and music professionals, challenging inequality and strengthening grassroots music networks.
Tickets are £5 for all events, and are available now via NTS.
Drink responsibly.
