Legendary musician Paul Weller is set to headline the opening night of Liverpool‘s prestigious On the Waterfront Festival on Thursday, 18 June 2026, bringing his iconic catalog of hits to the city’s historic Pier Head venue.
The Modfather brings his timeless songbook to Liverpool’s waterfront for an unmissable festival opener.
The influential songwriter, celebrated for his work with The Jam, The Style Council, and as a solo artist, will kick off the four-day music celebration as it enters its fifth edition next summer.
Festival organizers have positioned Weller, often referred to as “The Modfather,” as the marquee act to launch the event, acknowledging his four-decade career that has profoundly shaped British rock, punk, and soul music.
Audiences can anticipate a setlist spanning his extensive repertoire, including classics like “Town Called Malice” and “Going Underground” from his days with The Jam.
The Pier Head location provides a dramatic backdrop for the performance, with Liverpool’s waterfront serving as both a practical and symbolic setting for the city’s growing summer music scene.
Open-air stages will accommodate large crowds while showcasing the venue’s architectural heritage.
Weller’s performance will feature his signature blend of genres, combining elements of rock, punk, and soul that have defined his distinctive musical style throughout his career.
His headlining set is expected to create an electric atmosphere as he performs his timeless classics on the opening night of the festival.
The artist is known for his meticulous sound quality control, often arriving hours before showtime to personally oversee equipment setup and acoustic refinements.
Presale tickets for Weller’s performance go live on Thursday, 30th October 2025, at 10:00 GMT through the festival’s official platforms and Live Nation.
Music fans are encouraged to register for presale access to secure their spot at what promises to be a memorable opening night.
On the Waterfront has steadily grown into a cornerstone of Liverpool’s cultural calendar, delivering substantial economic benefits through tourism and local spending.
The multi-genre festival, running from June 18-21, reinforces Liverpool’s reputation as a musical destination beyond its Beatles heritage.
The booking represents a significant coup for festival organizers, who continue to attract premier talent to the city.
Fans can follow Weller’s official social media channels for exclusive content and updates leading up to the much-anticipated performance.
Media coverage is expected to focus on Weller’s enduring appeal across generations of music fans.
His appearance will certainly set a high standard for the remaining festival acts while celebrating Liverpool’s ongoing contribution to Britain’s musical landscape.
