By Jose Oliveira & Rosine Alleva – Rock At Night EU Editors
BALOISE SESSION 2026 promises an eclectic and captivating lineup in Basel. Recognized as a must-attend event among major Europe’s indoor festivals, and with a substantial budget, the festival is attracting a wide audience. BALOISE SESSION is also renowned for its ability to create unique musical experiences, blending exceptional performances with a warm atmosphere. This new edition will feature eighteen artists performing for ten hot and emotional evenings from October 16 to November 4.
It upholds a strong tradition of supporting the Swiss music scene, showcasing local artists while also hosting international stars. It is a must-visit destination for music lovers seeking intimate and memorable concert experiences.
Nile Rodgers & CHIC and Joe Bonamassa will be the major headliners of BALOISE SESSION 2026. Nile Rodgers—a funk and disco legend renowned for his iconic guitar riffs and collaborations with artists such as David Bowie, Madonna, and Daft Punk—will undoubtedly bring a vibrant, festive atmosphere to the stage with CHIC. Meanwhile, Joe Bonamassa is a highly respected blues-rock guitarist and singer, celebrated for technical and emotional performances that promise to captivate the audience. Their presence underscores the eclectic nature and high quality of this edition, attracting a broad audience of fans across various musical genres.
Among the other international artists is Mark Forster, a highly popular German singer, songwriter, and musician known for his pop songs and catchy melodies. His musical style blends elements of pop, soul, and French *chanson*, enabling him to appeal to a wide audience.
With Calum Scott and Tori Kelly, soulful, emotional pop ballads will be the order of the day. The poetic lyrics of Swiss artist Stephan Eicher will share the stage with Imany’s deep, soulful voice. In short, all the ingredients are in place to make the 2026 edition a resounding success.
Line Up 2026:
Oct. 16 – Mark Forster / Kamrad Oct. 17 – Mark Forster / Lo & Leduc
Oct. 19 – Nile Rodgers & CHIC / Rick Astley
Oct. 20 – Nile Rodgers & CHIC / Natasha Bedingfield
Oct. 21 – Calum Scott / Tori Kelly
Oct. 23 – Stephan Eicher / Imany Oct. 27 – Erykah Badu / Max Herre & Joy Denalane
Oct. 30 – James Arthur / Nicotine Dolls
Nov. 3 – Joe Bonamassa / Brandy Clark
Nov. 4 – Picture This / Amistat
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I was born in Portugal and lived the Sixties exploring the great UK Rock magazines: "The New Musical Express" and "Melody Maker". Ray Charles and Pat Boone were my father’s fav. I became “The Great Pretender”. Cliff Richard was our Elvis Presley. As a beach boy, with my first guitar, I met a beautiful French girl on the beach! It was the Summer of 69!! We got married and rock music was our dowry. In France, I became a Wine Genetic Research Scientist. One of my works contributed to the decoding of the genome of the vine! As a rock journalist, I’ve worked twenty years for the Portuguese and Brazilian Rock Press. I ‘ve interviewed so many great artists. Then, one day I met FRANK ZAPPA! I got into trouble for introducing my wife to "Uncle Meat"!
