5 must-see artists performing live in Manchester this autumn

Mancunians are blessed when it comes to live entertainment. As a city bursting with culture, special events, and more, there’s always something to enjoy right on the doorstep.

And there’s certainly lots to anticipate this autumn with exciting visits by some of the hottest young artists around currently, as well as much-loved familiar faces - guaranteed to delight all ages.

From Little Simz to Heaven 17, check out the list below to see who's heading up north later this year, and where to get your tickets.

October 16, 2025

Little Simz is heading out on a UK arena tour this autumn, including a show at Manchester’s Co-op Live, in support of her highly anticipated sixth studio album, 'Lotus'.

At 13 tracks long, 'Lotus' is an expansive and yet deeply personal project, as Little Simz brings her inner world onto record in her most intimate and honest manner yet. Among an arresting musical backdrop, guided by producer Miles Clinton James, is a weaving of rich stories and vivid vignettes., telling an emotive story about the woman and artist Simz has become. The title itself, 'Lotus', embodies renewal and growth, mirroring Simz's ever-evolving artistry and the album's thematic voyage through life's intricate phases.

'Lotus' also features an impeccably curated list of collaborators: Moses Sumney, Miraa May, Wretch 32, Cashh, Michael Kiwanuka, Yussef Dayes, Sampha, Lydia Kitto, Yukimi Nagano, Obongjayar, and Moonchild Sanelly.

Little Simz is a multi-award winner, collecting Brit Awards, MOBOs, and an Ivor Novello across mixtapes, EPs, and five critically acclaimed albums - a catalogue that documents her story, her journey, her becoming, and her generation.

Tickets are on sale here now.

September 27, 2025

Rising talent