Listen Out, held on Thursday 10th September, will feature performances from established and emerging artists as well as mental health support for young people
A new music movement will officially launch on World Suicide Prevention Day, Thursday 10 September 2026, with a live event at Big Penny Social, Walthamstow.
Founded by Jon Salmon following the loss of his father to suicide and his own experience of mental illness, Listen Out was inspired by the role live music played in his recovery.
Through years of working with charities, Jon says he also saw first-hand how “challenging” it can be to deliver events and raise vital funds, leading him to create Listen Out in order to “bring together music, communities and purpose”.
He adds that Listen Out is “more than a live music event”, calling it “the beginning of a movement that uses music to spark conversations, encourage people to seek support earlier, create opportunities for young people and strengthen communities”.
The launch event will feature performances from established and emerging artists, with Shocka and rising artist AnderSol announced today as the first acts to join the line-up.
Award-winning rapper and mental health advocate Shocka has inspired thousands through his honesty about his own lived experience.
As an ambassador for Beyond, the youth mental health charity, he is passionate about breaking down stigma and encouraging young people to seek support.
AnderSol’s performance will support Black Minds Matter while DJ Jim Jamal will keep the energy going with a specially curated set throughout the evening.
More artists will be announced over the coming weeks.
Alongside an evening of live music, audiences will have the opportunity to connect with charities and community organisations offering advice, information and support. Attendees will also have the chance to explore creative industries through volunteering, mentoring, training and work experience opportunities specifically for young people.
Listen Out founder Jon said: “Going to gigs made me feel less alone and more hopeful after I had experienced really poor mental health. Music has an incredible ability to improve our mood, and bring us together.
“Listen Out is about creating those moments of connection. If someone leaves one of our events feeling more hopeful, more connected or more willing to ask for support, then we’ve achieved something truly meaningful.”
Louisa Rose, CEO of Beyond, said: “At Beyond, we know that music can be much more than entertainment. It can be a lifeline. It helps young people make sense of difficult feelings, find comfort in shared experiences and realise they’re not alone.
“We’re incredibly thankful that Listen Out has chosen to support Beyond and put mental health at the heart of this exciting new movement.
“To have our ambassador Shocka leading the line-up makes it even more special. His music and advocacy embody everything this partnership stands for: using creativity to spark conversation, challenge stigma and remind young people that support is always within reach.”
Tickets are now on sale at www.ListenOut.org. Every ticket purchased supports the Listen Out movement.
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