Manchester Super News

We are the beating heart of British music, and for good reason.  A legacy that spans genres, decades, and generations, the city and its surrounding areas have been the backdrop for some of the most legendary gigs in music history.  From era-defining performances to intimate shows that became the stuff of folklore, Greater Manchester's venues have played host to them all. We are going on a journey through time to explore the most unforgettable gigs ever staged in this musical powerhouse. Author - Sophie T  The Sex Pistols at the Lesser Free Trade Hall (1976) No list of iconic Manchester gigs is complete without this seismic event. On 4 June 1976, the Sex Pistols performed at the Lesser Free Trade Hall, sparking a musical revolution. Though the audience reportedly numbered just 40 people, the attendees went on to shape the music landscape.  Among that crowd were future members of The Smiths, Joy Division, and The Buzzcocks. This gig wasn't just a show; it was the...

We need a new video game set in Manchester  Imagine an Open World epic where you explore Beetham Tower, Manchester Town Hall, and the Northern Quarter? Author - Liam C How would the game work? The game’s developers would likely incorporate the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own atmosphere and character. The storyline would take inspiration from Manchester’s industrial past, music scene , and its future as a tech-driven city. You might take on the role of a character caught in struggle between old and new Manchester. In a world where historical figures, modern influencers, and underground factions battle for control of the city’s future. Portraying the soul of Manchester  One of the most exciting aspects of a Manchester-based RPG is the potential for an interactive, evolving city. Every part of Manchester could play a role in the game, offering a variety of missions, challenges, and hidden secrets. Check out more gaming news from Super News Affiliate ...

 Here are nine influential songs and artists associated with Greater Manchester They have all left a significant mark on Manchester's music industry: "Wonderwall" by Oasis This song, released in 1995 by Oasis had become a global anthem and is one of the most recognizable songs from the region. "Love Will Tear Us Apart" by Joy Division This post-punk classic from the late 1970s is often considered one of the greatest songs of all time and is associated with the iconic Joy Division. "Bitter Sweet Symphony" by The Verve Released in 1997, this song by The Verve is known for its distinctive orchestral arrangement and is a British rock classic. "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" by The Smiths This song is a timeless indie rock track by the The Smiths, released in 1986. You walk into any bar in Manchester on a Saturday night, and you'd imagine this song would be getting a rendition. "Common People" by Pulp While Pulp are from S...

Anthony Howard Wilson (known by many as Tony Wilson) was a British record label owner, radio and television presenter, nightclub manager and a journalist for Granada Television and the BBC. Tony Wilson was behind some of our most successful bands. He was one of the five co-founders of Factory Records and the founder and manager of the Haçienda nightclub. Wilson put in some immense work in promoting the culture of Manchester throughout his career His involvement in popular music stemmed from hosting Granada's culture and music programme 'So It Goes'. Wilson disliked the music scene of the mid-1970s.  A version of this article was originally posted here.  Icons of Greater Manchester: Tony Wilson (gmanchesternews.blogspot.com)   Over his time, he became the manager of many bands, including A Certain Ratio and The Durutti Column. His Factory Records was the home of Happy Mondays, Joy Division and New Order.  Other interests  He was fan of Manchester United. ...

Johnny Marr is a musician, songwriter and singer.  He first achieved fame as the guitarist and co-songwriter of the Smiths. Author - Jamie P Source | Vladimir Flickr Early life and the start of his carser Born and raised in Manchester, England, Marr formed his first band as a teenager  He was part of several bands with Andy Rourke before forming the Smiths with Morrissey in 1982.  An incredible journey with the Smiths.  The Smiths attained commercial success and were critically acclaimed, with Marr's jangle pop guitar style becoming a distinctive part of the band's sound. His tenure with The Smiths was a defining period in British music, shaping the sound of indie rock for generations. As the band’s lead guitarist and co-songwriter, Marr’s intricate, jangly guitar work became the backbone of their sound, blending melodic sophistication with raw emotional intensity. READ MORE:  Greatest Greater Manchester gigs and conc...

Things to do in Greater Manchester part 1 Heaton Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Europe and remains a treasured green space for locals and visitors alike.  Author - Josh D Spanning over 600 acres, Heaton Park offers a striking contrast to the surrounding urban sprawl, providing a welcome retreat for walkers, cyclists, families and anyone in search of open skies and fresh air. At its heart is Heaton Hall, a Grade I listed neoclassical mansion designed by James Wyatt and dating back to the late 18th century. While the hall itself is only open to the public on selected days, it remains an imposing feature of the landscape and serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s historical layers. From the hill near the hall, visitors can enjoy panoramic views that stretch across Manchester and, on a clear day, even as far as the Pennines. Heaton Park has long been a fixture of Mancunian life. Beyond its natural beauty, it hosts a wide range of activities. There is a boating l...

Let's explore some of the best restaurants in Manchester. There are some great options. Adam Reid at The French A Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative British cuisine. Liam loves the place. He told us: "Rarely am I lost for words, but on this occasion I really was! Dined with my husband and can honestly say, without a doubt, the best experience in fine dining we have had. The food was exquisite, elegantly presented and explained by the chefs who presented each individual delight. The sommelier was simply captivating with her description of paired drinks and the rationale behind each concept. And it truly worked - just ingenious.  "The staff were attentive, welcoming, humorous, utter professionals and polite without being intrusive. The ambience and decor were striking and thoughtful yet unimposing. This was an incredible place." Hawksmoor Manchester A steakhouse known for its high-quality steaks and cocktails. Mackie Mayor A food hall with a vari...

If there’s one thing Manchester does well (aside from music, football, and rain), it’s pizza.  From the depths of Chorlton to the arches of the city centre, you’re never too far from a spot serving up something hot, cheesy, and straight out of the oven.  Author - Sophie T Whether you're after a proper Neapolitan base, vegan-friendly toppings, or a cheeky slice after a few drinks, this city has it covered. But with so many choices, picking the right one can feel like a bit of a minefield. Do you go classic or creative? Sit-down or grab-and-go? Thankfully, we’ve done the hard work (and a fair bit of eating) to narrow it down. Here are some of the best pizza places Manchester has to offer.  Here’s our list of top picks: Voodoo Ray’s at Escape to Freight Island The first outpost outside of London for these slice-slingers. We’re into it. One recent visitor said: "I ordered A slice of the Queen Vegan pizza, which was beautiful tbh. The dough was light and crispy and to...

Kula Shaker and Ocean Colour Scene create a party atmosphere in Manchester A sensational night of music at one of Manchester's most iconic music venues Author - Josh D For some reason, you just knew this was going to be a special night almost immediately. A closer look at Kula Shaker A band that might not necessarily have been as well known to the crowd. 90s Britpop fans will have been well aware, but for younger members of the crowd, Kula Shaker wasn't as well-known as some of their contemporaries. Within minutes though, everyone was certainly enjoying themselves. There is a distinction between being billed as a support act and being labelled a special guest. Kula Shaker, known for their established reputation and unique style, made it clear they were the latter. The night was off to a good start. Now for Ocean Colour Scene The bond between the band and their fans was palpable throughout the set, with a great mix of ages and backgrounds in the crowd. This didn’t go unn...

Salford fans can now start looking forward to the rest of the Super League season The Red Devils have been given the green light to field a full-strength side against Leeds Rhinos on Saturday after the sustainability cap imposed by the Rugby Football League was lifted. Author - Michael Haldsworth Confirmation that a takeover of the club being formally approved by RFL Commercial will come as a huge relief to everyone associated with the club. In addition to their long-term future now being guaranteed, it means there will be no repeat of head coach Paul Rowley's farcical team selection against St Helens that saw them thrashed 82-0 in their first Super League fixture.  This 15 try victory was the heaviest winning margin in the league's history. From a Salford perspective, it represented a low moment in what has been a fairly successful era for the club.  Click here for more Super League news from Manchester Super News Party atmosphere expected for Salford’s first home game This...

The Slow Readers Club to mark Cavalcade anniversary with UK tour They are set to mark a major milestone with a special anniversary tour celebrating ten years since the release of Cavalcade. Author - Samson This was the breakthrough album that propelled them from local favourites to one of the UK’s most acclaimed indie acts. Forever in your debt is one of the most popular songs from the album Source | CDF Records Titled A Decade of Cavalcade, the tour will see the band perform the 2015 album in full, revisiting the brooding, emotionally charged sound that first captured listeners’ imaginations. It's both a nod to the past and a sign of how far they've come. And perhaps, where they’re heading next. The announcement comes off the back of a landmark year for the band. Their latest album, Out Of A Dream, debuted at Number 11 on the Official UK Albums Chart, their highest placing to date, and has fuelled further momentum across streaming platforms.  READ MORE: Music news from our...

A dramatic night in Wigan and incredible way to start the new Super League season Leigh Leopards stunned reigning champions Wigan Warriors with a golden-point victory in extra time on the opening night of the 2025 Super League season – after the two sides played out the first-ever 0-0 draw in the competition’s 29-year history. Author - Amy W Gareth O’Brien sealed the win with a decisive drop-goal three minutes into extra time, handing last season’s quadruple winners a losing start to their title defence. Both teams displayed remarkable defensive discipline in a fiercely physical derby between these local rivals, with neither able to break the deadlock during an intense but gripping 80 minutes. O’Brien’s one-pointer sparked jubilant celebrations, securing Leigh’s first victory at Wigan since 1983. The evening began with a real sense of occasion, featuring live music from The Lathums, pre-match pyrotechnics, and legendary boxing announcer Michael Buffer welcoming the teams onto the p...