The O2 Academy is a renowned chain of music venues located across various cities in the United Kingdom, known for hosting a diverse array of live music events, club nights, and performances that cater to a wide audience. Originally established as the "Academy Music Group," these venues have roots dating back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, when several iconic buildings—some dating back to the early 20th century—were repurposed for live entertainment. Many of the buildings themselves hold significant historical value; for example, the O2 Academy Brixton is housed in a Grade II listed building previously used as a theater and cinema since 1929.

In 2008, a major sponsorship deal saw the venues rebranded under the O2 mobile network, cementing their place as cultural institutions within the UK's vibrant nightlife and music scene. Over the years, the O2 Academies have built a strong reputation for high-quality sound systems, unique architectural features, and their ability to draw both up-and-coming local acts and major international superstars. The venues are celebrated not just as nightlife hotspots but also as important stepping stones for emerging artists and beloved spaces where fans can experience live music in an intimate setting.

While each location has its own unique character, many have undergone refurbishment to improve facilities and accessibility, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the live entertainment industry without losing their historic charm. No major relocations have typically occurred, as the prestige of each venue is closely tied to its distinctive setting, but periodic updates in seating arrangements, staging, and technology have kept the O2 Academies current with industry standards. The cultural significance of the O2 Academy circuit is reflected in its enduring popularity, its role in nurturing British musical talent, and its status as a launching pad for artists destined for international stardom.

Notable artists who have performed at O2 Academy venues include global superstars such as Adele, Arctic Monkeys, Coldplay, Lady Gaga, Bob Dylan, Prince, David Bowie, and The Killers, alongside a host of acclaimed British acts like Kasabian, Florence + The Machine, Stormzy, Blur, Suede, and Sam Fender. The venues have also played host to international bands such as Radiohead, The Strokes, Green Day, Foo Fighters, Metallica, and Kendrick Lamar, as well as a wide range of local and regional musicians who have benefited from the platform provided by the O2 Academy network.