Manchester Music
The Musical Centre of the Universe
Welcome to manchester
Manchester Music Evolution
From Beat to Britpop and Beyond
Exploring the Dynamic Transformations and Global Influence of Manchester’s Music Scene from the 1960s to Today
The Manchester music scene has undergone remarkable transformations since the 1960s, shaping global music culture and leaving an indelible mark on the world. In the ’60s, Manchester was a hub for the emerging beat music movement, with bands like The Hollies and Herman’s Hermits gaining international acclaim.
The city’s vibrant music scene continued to evolve through the ’70s and ’80s, with the emergence of punk and post-punk bands like Joy Division and The Smiths, who brought a raw, introspective edge to the scene.
Manchester’s impact on music reached new heights in the late ’80s and early ’90s with the rise of Madchester and the influential sound of bands like Happy Mondays and The Stone Roses, blending rock, dance, and psychedelic elements.
This era saw Manchester become a focal point of the rave and club culture, epitomized by iconic venues like The Hacienda.
Into the 2000s and beyond, Manchester continued to innovate, producing acts like Oasis and The Chemical Brothers, who propelled Britpop and electronic music to global prominence.
Today, Manchester remains a breeding ground for diverse musical styles, from indie rock and electronic dance music to hip-hop and soul.
Beyond music, Manchester’s cultural impact extends to social change.
From the Factory Records movement that embraced DIY ethics to the cultural regeneration spurred by initiatives like the Manchester International Festival, the city has championed creativity and community engagement.
Manchester’s music scene not only reflects its rich history of innovation but also embodies its spirit of resilience and unity. Through music, Manchester continues to inspire and shape the world, demonstrating the transformative power of artistic expression and cultural exchange.
Crack open a beer or pour a glass of wine and immerse yourself in Manchester’s music scene
The Smiths
Formed in Manchester in 1982, The Smiths, led by Morrissey and Johnny Marr, fused catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, exploring themes of alienation. Songs like “This Charming Man,” “How Soon Is Now?,” “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” and “Bigmouth Strikes Again” epitomized their influential sound.
Oasis
Oasis, formed in Manchester in 1991, gained rapid fame with their debut album “Definitely Maybe,” setting records as the fastest-selling UK debut.
Their subsequent albums “What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” and “Be Here Now” cemented their status as Britpop icons.
Despite internal tensions, Oasis disbanded in 2009, leaving behind a lasting legacy in British rock music.
Joy Division
Joy Division, formed in 1976 in Manchester, evolved from punk roots to pioneering post-punk sound.
Their debut album “Unknown Pleasures” (1979) gained acclaim.
Tragically, lead singer Ian Curtis’s death in 1980 led to their dissolution. “Love Will Tear Us Apart” remains an enduring anthem.
New Order
New Order emerged from Joy Division’s end in 1980, shaping synth-driven post-punk. Their hit “Blue Monday” (1983) pioneered electronic dance. Notable tracks include “Bizarre Love Triangle” and “True Faith.” Continuing to evolve, New Order remains influential in alternative and electronic music.
The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses, formed in Manchester in 1983, defined the Madchester scene, blending psychedelia with indie rock.
Their self-titled debut album (1989) featured hits like “I Wanna Be Adored” and “Fools Gold.” Despite internal conflicts, their influence on Britpop endures.
The Chemical Brothers
The Chemical Brothers, a British electronic music duo, formed in Manchester in 1989. They pioneered the big beat genre with hits like “Block Rockin‘ Beats” and “Hey Boy Hey Girl.” Their innovative sound blends electronic, dance, and rock influences, shaping modern electronic music.
The Fall
The Fall, formed in Manchester in 1976 by Mark E. Smith, was known for its prolific output and unique post-punk sound.
Songs like “Totally Wired” and “The Classical” exemplify their experimental style.
Mark E. Smith’s distinctive vocals and lyrics defined the band’s enduring influence.
Happy Mondays
Happy Mondays, formed in Salford in 1980, pioneered the Madchester scene with a fusion of rock, dance, and psychedelia.
Their album “Pills ‘n’ Thrills and Bellyaches” (1990) featured hits like “Step On” and “Kinky Afro.” Known for their hedonistic lifestyle, they left a lasting mark on the UK music scene.
Elbow
Elbow, formed in Bury in 1997, gained acclaim for their emotive rock sound.
Their album “The Seldom Seen Kid” (2008) won the Mercury Prize. Hits like “One Day Like This” and “Grounds for Divorce” showcase their lyrical depth and musical craftsmanship.
Buzzcocks
Buzzcocks, a pivotal punk band from Manchester in the late 1970s, defined the DIY punk ethos.
Their hits like “Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)” and “What Do I Get?” are timeless punk anthems, influencing generations with their raw energy and catchy melodies.
The Courteeners
The Courteeners, formed in Manchester in 2006, emerged as a prominent indie rock band.
Their hits include “Not Nineteen Forever,” “What Took You So Long?” and “Are You in Love with a Notion?”
The band’s energetic sound and anthemic songs captivate audiences with their distinctive Manchester vibe.
The Charlatans
The Charlatans, originating in West Midlands and later associated with Manchester’s Madchester scene, emerged in the late 1980s. Hits like “The Only One I Know,” “North Country Boy,” and “One to Another” showcase their blend of rock, psychedelia, and Britpop influences.
Simply Red
Simply Red, led by Mick Hucknall, formed in Manchester in the mid-1980s.
Their soulful pop hits include “Holding Back the Years,” “If You Don’t Know Me By Now,” and “Stars.” Simply Red’s smooth sound and Hucknall’s distinctive voice achieved international acclaim.
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10cc
10cc, originating in Stockport near Manchester, became known for their sophisticated pop and art-rock.
Hits like “I’m Not in Love,” “Dreadlock Holiday,” and “The Things We Do for Love” showcase their innovative songwriting and production, leaving a lasting impact on pop music..
Doves
Doves, formed in Manchester in the 1990s, blend indie rock with electronic and atmospheric elements.
Their hits include “There Goes the Fear,” “Black and White Town,” and “Pounding.” Doves’ emotive soundscapes and introspective lyrics resonate with listeners, solidifying their place in British rock.
Inspiral Carpets
Inspiral Carpets, a Madchester band formed in 1983, crafted psychedelic indie rock.
Hits include “This Is How It Feels,” “Dragging Me Down,” and “Saturn 5.”
The band’s organ-driven sound and catchy melodies defined the era’s alternative music scene, leaving a lasting impression.
The Verve
The Verve, formed in Wigan near Manchester, rose to fame with anthems like “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” “The Drugs Don’t Work,” and “Lucky Man.”
Their atmospheric rock sound defined Britpop’s introspective side, garnering critical acclaim and enduring popularity.
Everything Everything
Everything Everything, an innovative indie band from Manchester, gained acclaim for their eclectic sound and intricate songwriting.
Hits include “Cough Cough,” “Distant Past,” and “Can’t Do.” Their genre-defying music blends art rock, pop, and electronic elements, pushing boundaries in contemporary alternative music.
A Guy Called Gerald
A Guy Called Gerald, a pioneer of electronic music from Manchester, gained fame in the late 1980s.
Hits like “Voodoo Ray” and “Pacific Samba” exemplify his innovative acid house and techno sound.
His work continues to influence the dance and electronic music scene.
Badly Drawn Boy
Badly Drawn Boy (Damon Gough), a singer-songwriter from Manchester, gained acclaim with “The Hour of Bewilderbeast” (2000), winning the Mercury Prize.
Hits include “Once Around the Block” and “Disillusion.” Known for his eclectic style, Gough’s music blends indie folk, pop, and lo-fi elements.
The Durutti Column
The Durutti Column, led by Vini Reilly, emerged in Manchester’s post-punk scene with ambient guitar music.
Songs like “Sketch for Summer” and “Otis” showcase Reilly’s unique style.
The band’s experimental sound and emotive compositions have left a lasting impact on alternative music.
The Hollies
The Hollies, formed in Manchester in the early 1960s, became renowned for harmonious pop-rock hits.
Songs like “Bus Stop,” “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” and “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” showcase their enduring influence on the British Invasion and pop music.
The Ting Tings
The Ting Tings, a duo from Salford, gained popularity in the late 2000s with energetic pop-rock.
Hits include “That’s Not My Name,” “Shut Up and Let Me Go,” and “Hands.”
Their catchy, punk-infused sound captivated audiences, marking them as a dynamic force in indie music.
The Whip
The Whip, a Manchester electronic rock band, emerged in the mid-2000s with a danceable sound.
Hits include “Trash,” “Secret Weapon,” and “Movement.”
Their fusion of indie rock and electronic beats captured the energy of Manchester’s music scene, earning them acclaim and a dedicated following.
Pale Waves
Pale Waves, from Manchester, gained attention with their indie pop sound in the 2010s.
Hits include “There’s a Honey,” “Television Romance,” and “Eighteen.”
Their dreamy, synth-driven style and Heather Baron-Gracie’s vocals have earned them a place in contemporary alternative music.
Blossoms
Blossoms, an indie pop band from Stockport near Manchester, rose to prominence in the mid-2010s.
Hits include “Charlemagne,” “Honey Sweet,” and “I Can’t Stand It.”
Their infectious melodies and retro-inspired sound have solidified their status in the British music scene.
I Am Kloot
I Am Kloot, a Manchester-based indie rock band led by John Bramwell, formed in the late 1990s.
Their songs include “From Your Favourite Sky,” “Proof,” and “Northern Skies.” Known for poetic lyrics and Bramwell’s emotive vocals, they gained a devoted following in the UK music scene.
The 1975
The 1975, originating from Wilmslow near Manchester, blend pop, rock, and electronic elements.
Hits include “Somebody Else,” “Love It If We Made It,” and “The Sound.”
Their innovative sound and lyrics resonate with a global audience, cementing their place in contemporary music.
Johnny Marr
Johnny Marr, renowned guitarist from Manchester, co-founded The Smiths.
His solo career features songs like “Easy Money,” “New Town Velocity,” and “Hi Hello.” Marr’s distinctive guitar style has influenced generations of musicians, and his solo work showcases his enduring musical talent.
Cherry Ghost
Cherry Ghost, led by Simon Aldred, emerged from Manchester’s indie scene in the mid-2000s.
Their songs include “People Help the People,” “4am,” and “Mathematics.”
Aldred’s emotive vocals and introspective lyrics define their atmospheric indie rock sound, gaining critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
Cleopatra
Cleopatra, a British R&B girl group from Manchester in the 1990s, gained popularity with hits like “Cleopatra’s Theme,” “Life Ain’t Easy,” and “A Touch of Love.” Known for their harmonious vocals and upbeat tracks, Cleopatra made waves in the music scene.
Take That
Take That, a British pop group formed in Manchester in the 1990s, achieved massive success with hits like “Back for Good,” “Pray,” and “Never Forget.” Initially a boy band, they later became a successful quartet known for catchy pop tunes and elaborate performances.
The Mouse Outfit
The Mouse Outfit, a hip-hop collective from Manchester, emerged in the 2010s.
Their songs include “Sit Back,” “Step Steadier,” and “Shak Out.”
Known for their live shows and collaborations, The Mouse Outfit infuses jazz and soul into their infectious beats, defining Manchester’s modern hip-hop scene.
A Certain Ratio
A Certain Ratio, a pioneering post-punk and funk band from Manchester, formed in the late 1970s.
Their songs include “Shack Up,” “Do the Du,” and “Knife Slits Water.” The band’s experimental sound and genre-blending approach have influenced alternative music for decades.
The Chameleons
The Chameleons, a Manchester post-punk band formed in the 1980s, crafted atmospheric rock.
Hits include “Swamp Thing,” “Second Skin,” and “Tears.”
Their introspective lyrics and unique sound influenced alternative rock, with a loyal fanbase celebrating their enduring legacy.
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Northside
Northside, a Manchester band from the late 1980s, fused indie rock with dance influences.
Hits include “Shall We Take a Trip,” “Take 5,” and “My Rising Star.”
Their energetic sound contributed to the Madchester scene, blending rock with rave culture.
Paul Heaton
Paul Heaton, a British singer-songwriter and former member of The Housemartins and The Beautiful South, is known for hits like “Caravan of Love,” “Happy Hour,”
and “Perfect 10.”
His witty lyrics and distinctive voice define his solo career in the realm of indie pop.
The Wendys
The Wendys, a Scottish band signed to Factory Records in the late 1980s, incorporated indie rock with psychedelic and shoegaze influences.
Songs include “Pulling My Fingers Off” and “Suckling.”
They were known for their atmospheric sound and dreamy melodies.
Swing Out Sister
Swing Out Sister, a British pop band formed in the 1980s, gained fame with hits like “Breakout,” “Surrender,” and “Twilight World.” Known for their sophisticated sound blending jazz, pop, and soul, they became icons of the smooth and stylish side of 1980s pop music.
Sweet Sensation
Sweet Sensation, a British soul and R&B group from Manchester in the 1970s and 1980s, had hits like “Sad Sweet Dreamer,” “Purely by Coincidence,” and “Mr. Cool.”
Their smooth vocals and catchy tunes contributed to their success in the UK music scene.
The Waltones
The Waltones, a Manchester band from the mid-1980s, blended indie pop with jangly guitars.
Songs include “Spell It Out,” and “Downhill.”
Their catchy melodies and upbeat sound captured the essence of British indie music at the time.
Paris Angels
Paris Angels, a Manchester band in the early 1990s, combined indie rock with dance beats.
Songs include “All on You (Perfume),” and “Fade.” Known for their melodic sound and club-friendly tunes.
Paris Angels contributed to the Madchester music scene.
The High
The High, a Manchester band in the late 1980s and early 1990s, created melodic indie pop.
Hits include “Box Set Go,” “Up and Down,” and “More.”
Their catchy hooks and guitar-driven sound epitomized the Madchester era, leaving a mark on the city’s music scene.
The Railway Children
The Railway Children, a Manchester band in the 1980s, crafted jangly indie pop. Hits include “Every Beat of the Heart,” “In the Meantime,” and “A Gentle Sound.” Their melodic tunes and heartfelt lyrics captured the spirit of British indie music during that era.
New Fast Automatic Daffodils
New Fast Automatic Daffodils, a Manchester band from the late 1980s to early 1990s, blended indie rock with dance and funk.
Hits include “Big,” “Fishes Eyes,” and “It’s Not What You Know.”
Their eclectic sound and energetic performances were emblematic of the Madchester era.
Ruthless Rap Assassins
Ruthless Rap Assassins, a Manchester hip-hop group in the late 1980s and early 1990s, infused rap with funk and reggae. Hits include “And It Wasn’t a Dream,” “Just Mellow,” and “Jealous MC.”
Their socially conscious lyrics and eclectic beats reflected the UK’s urban music scene.
Suns of Arqa
Suns of Arqa, a pioneering world music collective from Manchester since the late 1970s, blend Eastern influences with dub and electronica. Songs include “Govinda’s House,” “Acid Tabla Dub,” and “Jagnath Bhajan.”
Their innovative fusion of styles continues to inspire the global music scene.
808 State
808 State, an electronic music group from Manchester since the late 1980s, pioneered acid house and techno.
Hits include “Pacific State,” “In Yer Face,” and “Cubik.”
Their innovative sound and collaborations with other artists defined the UK’s rave and dance music culture.
Black Grape
Black Grape, a band formed by Shaun Ryder of Happy Mondays, emerged in the 1990s.
Hits include “Reverend Black Grape,” “In the Name of the Father,” and “Kelly’s Heroes.“
Their blend of rock, funk, and dance music epitomized the Madchester era.
Maruja
Maruja has been making waves in the UK live music scene with their distinctive blend of gritty, grungy sound infused with jazzy undertones.
Their EP “Knocknarea” has gained global attention, and their live performances are known for their intensity and uniqueness.
Cabbage
Cabbage, a post-punk band from Manchester, formed in 2015.
Known for their provocative lyrics and energetic live performances, their songs include “Terrorist Synthesizer,” “Dinner Lady,” and “Uber Capitalist Death Trade.” Cabbage infuses punk ethos with social commentary, marking them as a distinctive voice in British music.
Morrissey
Morrissey, a Manchester icon and former frontman of The Smiths, launched a successful solo career in the late 1980s. Hits include “Everyday Is Like Sunday,” “Suedehead,” and “The More You Ignore Me, the Closer I Get.” Known for his distinctive voice and poignant lyrics.
Ren Harvieu
Ren Harvieu, a British singer-songwriter from Manchester, gained attention with her debut album “Through the Night.” Songs include “Open Up Your Arms,” “Do Right by Me,” and “Tonight.” Known for her soulful voice and emotive lyrics, Harvieu continues to charm audiences with her music.
The Rolling People
The Rolling People, a British rock band from Manchester, emerged with hits like “I’ll Be There” and “Live Forever” (cover).”
Their blend of alternative rock and psychedelic influences garnered attention in the local music scene.
The band’s energetic live performances contributed to their growing popularity. What a band. These are going to be big.
Salford Jets
The Salford Jets, a British rock band formed in 1976 and re-formed in 2002, featured Mike Sweeney, Diccon Hubbard, Rod Gerrard, Don Mac, Dave Morris, Geoff Kerry, and Johnny Sax. Their hit single “Who You Looking At?” reached No. 72 in the UK Singles Chart in 1980, and they also released tracks like “Gina (I’ve Got A Cortina).”
Nikki and The Waves
Nikki and The Waves: With an Art-Pop sound as colorful as their dress sense, Nikki and The Waves have been making waves with their EP Songs To Play Tennis To. Keep an eye on this vibrant outfit
M People
M People, a British dance and house music group formed in Manchester in the 1990s, achieved success with hits like “Moving On Up,” “One Night in Heaven,” and “Search for the Hero.”
Their infectious dance-pop sound and Heather Small’s soulful vocals defined the era’s club scene.
Herman's Hermits
Herman’s Hermits, a British pop-rock band from Manchester in the 1960s, had hits including “Something is Happening,” “I’m Into Something Good,” and “There’s a Kind of Hush.”
Their catchy tunes and clean-cut image made them popular during the British Invasion.
Wayne Fontana and the Mindbenders
Wayne Fontana and the Mindbenders, a British pop band from Manchester in the 1960s, had hits including “The Game of Love,” “Um, Um, Um, Um, Um, Um,” and “A Groovy Kind of Love.”
Fontana’s distinctive voice and catchy tunes defined their success during the British Invasion..
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Bee Gees
The Bee Gees, formed in Australia by brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, later based in Manchester and then the US. Hits include “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” and “How Deep Is Your Love.” Their falsetto harmonies defined disco and pop music in the 1970s.
Freddie and the Dreamers
Freddie and the Dreamers, a British pop group from Manchester in the 1960s, had hits including “I’m Telling You Now,” “You Were Made for Me,” and “Do the Freddie.” Known for their comedic dance routines, they were part of the British Invasion era.
Davy Jones (The Monkeys)
Davy Jones, was a British singer and actor, best known as a member of The Monkees. Hits include “Daydream Believer,” “I’m a Believer,” and “Last Train to Clarksville.” Jones’ charm and vocals contributed to The Monkees’ success in the 1960s.
The Toggery Five
The Toggery Five, a British beat group from Manchester in the 1960s, had songs like “
I’m Gonna Jump,”
Known for their energetic live performances, they were part of the vibrant British beat music scene of the time.
Billy J. Kramer &The Dakotas
The Dakotas, a British group formed in Manchester, England, started as a backing band with vocalist Pete McLaine. Brian Epstein replaced McLaine with Liverpudlian singer Billy J. Kramer.
Hits like “Do You Want to Know a Secret” and “Little Children” contributed to their British Invasion success in the U.S.
Delights
A fresh and upcoming band from Manchester, Delights made waves in 2022 with their EP Cool Sports.
Their blend of bedroom pop, 70s psych, and funk has caught listeners’ attention. Check out their track “Iris” for a taste of their sound
Foxglove
Although they gained prominence in 2021, Foxglove remains an exciting indie pop quartet from Manchester.
Their ambient, hazy guitars combined with powerful pop vocals create infectious anthems.
Sad Cafe
Sad Cafe, a British band from Manchester in the 1970s and 1980s, had hits including “Every Day Hurts,” “Strange Little Girl,” and “My Oh My.”
Their melodic rock sound and emotional lyrics earned them success in the UK music scene..
TD Backus and The Powerhouse 6
TD Backus and The Powerhouse 6, a key part of Manchester’s 1960s beat scene, featured Roy “Tiddy” Gibbs (TD Backus) on vocals.
Their raw, jazz-infused rock ‘n roll captivated local audiences.
Though short-lived, their influence on Manchester’s music scene endures
The Lathums
The Lathums, an indie band from Wigan, achieved success with their debut album “How Beautiful Life Can Be,” reaching UK number one.
Their blend of indie rock and catchy melodies sets them apart, earning recognition alongside major international stars like Drake and Olivia Rodrigo.
The Stanleys
The Stanleys, a Wigan-based pop band since 2013, have gained local popularity with energetic performances.
They’re making waves in the North West scene, drawing attention with hometown gigs.
Keep an eye on The Stanleys—they’re on the rise!
Rowetta
Rowetta, a British singer, gained fame with the band Happy Mondays.
Known for her soulful voice, she contributed to hits like “Step On” and “Kinky Afro.”
Rowetta’s powerful vocals and energetic stage presence continue to influence the Manchester music scene.
Lisa Stansfield
Lisa Stansfield, born in Manchester, rose to prominence with hits like “All Around the World” and “People Hold On” in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Her soulful voice and catchy tunes made her a global star in pop and R&B music.
Sugarstone
This band brings a fresh indie vibe to the Manchester scene. Their music is catchy, energetic, and perfect for dancing. Check out their latest releases . ‘Hostile ‘ ‘ Can’t Help My Machine‘