Deacon Blue announced as next Bedford Summer Sessions headliner

Deacon Blue have been confirmed as the latest headliner for Bedford Summer Sessions, performing on Thursday 2 July 2026 as part of next summer’s series of open-air concerts.

The announcement marks the Scottish band’s first-ever performance in Bedford, bringing one of the UK’s most enduring live acts to the town. Formed in Glasgow in 1985, Deacon Blue have sold more than seven million albums worldwide and are known for hits including Dignity, Real Gone Kid, Wages Day and Fergus Sings the Blues.

In March 2025, the group released their latest studio album, The Great Western Road, celebrating 40 years since the band first began. Recorded at Rockfield Studios, the album saw frontman Ricky Ross and guitarist Gregor Philp return to production duties alongside engineer Matt Butler.

“It’s just the next part of the adventure and it’s as exciting now as it was back in 1988,” said Ross.

The band have recently completed a major tour that included 15 arena dates across the UK and Ireland, with a return to Wembley Arena for the first time since 1990, closing with two sold-out shows at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro.

Deacon Blue are widely regarded for their high-energy live performances, known for mixing decades of fan favourites with new material. “A live show is like a little bit of magic that appears, and then it’s gone,” added Ross. “You have to be there.”

Joining them on the night will be special guests Lightning Seeds, known for songs including Pure, Lucky You and The Life of Riley.

Tickets go on sale at 10am on Friday 7 November.

Confirmed Bedford Summer Sessions 2026 acts so far:

• Deacon Blue – Thursday 2 July 2026

• UB40 featuring Ali Campbell – Friday 3 July 2026

• Tom Grennan – Saturday 4 July 2026

• Paul Weller – Sunday 5 July 2026