The 2026 BRIT Awards wasn't just about who won - it was about who took the stage and delivered unforgettable moments.
Held on February 28 at Manchester's Co-op Live Arena, this year marked the first time in the ceremony's nearly five-decade history that the BRITs were hosted outside London. And the lineup reflected that milestone moment. From global superstars to breakthrough artists, the performances carried the night from start to finish.
So, who performed at the 2026 BRIT Awards? Here's the complete lineup and what made each set stand out.
Harry Styles Opened the Show in Grand Fashion
Harry Styles launched the ceremony with the live debut of his new single, "Aperture." It marked his first major televised performance in years, signaling the beginning of a new era for the global pop star.
Dressed in sharp tailoring and backed by a live band, dancers, and a choir, Styles delivered a polished production that instantly energized the Manchester crowd. Though he wasn't nominated this year, his presence set the tone for a high-caliber evening.
Olivia Dean Delivered a Champion's Performance
Fresh off a night where she won four awards - including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year - Olivia Dean performed "Man I Need" with confidence and style.
Surrounded by a brass section and shimmering stage visuals, Dean's performance felt celebratory yet grounded. It was a defining hometown moment for the BRIT School graduate who has quickly become one of the UK's leading voices in contemporary pop.
Rosalía Brought Orchestral Drama - and a Surprise Guest
Rosalía's performance of "Berghain" quickly became one of the night's most talked-about moments.
What began with orchestral elegance evolved into a high-energy techno finale. In a surprise twist, Björk appeared onstage for a rare cameo, elevating the set into something both artistic and unforgettable. Rosalía later took home International Artist of the Year, adding a trophy to an already powerful performance.
RAYE Showcased Vocal Strength and New Music
RAYE combined her hit "Where Is My Husband!" with the live debut of her new ballad "Nightingale Lane."
Backed by strings and soaring instrumentation, her set highlighted both vocal control and emotional depth. With her upcoming album This Music May Contain Hope arriving soon, the BRIT stage offered a timely preview of what's next.
Mark Ronson Celebrated a Career of Hits
Receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Music Award, Mark Ronson delivered a medley packed with iconic collaborations.
His set featured:
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"Ooh Wee" with Ghostface Killah
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Amy Winehouse tributes with The Dap-Kings
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"Valerie"
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"Uptown Funk"
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"Electricity" and "Dance the Night" with Dua Lipa
It was a high-energy celebration of a career that has shaped modern pop and soul music across decades.
A Powerful Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne
Closing the show was a rock tribute honoring the late Ozzy Osbourne.
Robbie Williams fronted a performance of "No More Tears," joined by longtime collaborators Adam Wakeman, Robert Trujillo, Tommy Clufetos, and Zakk Wylde. The tribute brought grit and emotion to the finale, reminding viewers of Osbourne's lasting influence on British music.
Additional Performers
The 2026 BRIT Awards also featured performances from:
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Wolf Alice ("The Sofa")
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SOMBR ("Undressed" and "Back to Friends")
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Alex Warren ("Ordinary")
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HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI) performing "Golden"
From rock to K-pop to orchestral pop, the diversity of genres showcased just how expansive the modern British and international music landscape has become.
A Night of Music That Transcended Awards
While trophies and fashion often dominate headlines, the performances reminded viewers why live music still resonates so deeply. Whether through heartfelt ballads, bold artistic experimentation, or tributes to legends, the evening reflected music's ability to connect people across styles and generations.
Moments of gratitude and reflection woven throughout the ceremony subtly pointed to something bigger than charts and streaming numbers - a reminder that creativity, legacy, and influence often carry meaning beyond applause.
The 2026 BRIT Awards proved that sometimes, the performances tell the story more powerfully than the prizes.
