But, before we do, we’ll give you three hints: 

He was BBC’s youngest ever Radio 1 DJ at just 17 years old. 

He climbed the radio ranks, ‘introducing’ us to plenty of new music along the way. 

He’s been a consistent champion of the grassroots, with a particular passion for regional access to music – especially in his home nation of Wales. 

Drumroll, please – your 2026 host is the one and only...

...Huw Stephens!

Huw has had an exceptional career, starting at only 17 by becoming BBC Radio 1’s youngest presenter ever. 

That’s a high bar to start your career with, but Huw has only gone from strength to strength. What we love most about him? He’s tirelessly championed new talent through BBC Introducing, giving musicians from all over the UK a chance to shine. As a hero to the grassroots music scene, we simply can’t think of anyone better to host the LIVE Awards.

“Huw has been an enthusiastic and consistent champion of live music for three decades now.

He has become a pivotal part of BBC Radio 6 Music’s daytime line-up and his warmth, knowledge and understanding of the live scene will be a great addition to our annual awards where we celebrate the whole industry’s achievements over the past year.”

Steve Lamacq, LIVE Chair

We spoke to Huw to get his thoughts on hosting the LIVE Awards this December – here's what he had to say.

Hi, Huw! We’re excited to have you hosting the LIVE Awards. What inspired you to pursue a career in the music industry? 

I fell in love with music and radio simultaneously and loved going to gigs. Introducing new music on the radio sounded like the dream job, so I gave hospital radio a go and carried on from there. 

The LIVE Awards are all about recognising the best and brightest in our industry - especially shining a light on new talent. You've spent a large chunk of your career championing up-and-coming musicians - tell us a bit more about that work and why championing new talent matters to you. 

I've always felt, probably from listening to Peel, and Steve Lamacq and Jo Whiley on the Evening Session, that new music deserves respect. Most want hits and quick fixes, but future hits have to start somewhereand the more level the playing field the better. Through my shows at the BBC I have been allowed to champion new music I believe in and elsewhere through festivals and live spaces I have tried to use my position to support and encourage new artists. That has been a huge pleasure! 

If you could create a LIVE Award for somebody in the industry who had an impact on you or your career, what would it be and who would you give it to? 

It would have to be Steve Lamacq. For encouraging, understanding and celebrating the art of gig going! 

What's a live music experience you'll never forget? 

There's so many. Going to a Transgressive night at the Social many moons ago and see Bon Iver hunched over his guitar, playing a beautiful set is one that stands out. 

Describe your dream live music gig in three words. 

No one talking.