Chali 2na + A.Skillz / Blues Kitchen
2025-08-13 19:00 (Europe/London) | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
Chali 2na—founding member of Jurassic 5 and Ozomatli—brings his signature baritone and sharp lyricism to The Blues Kitchen. With a career spanning over 25 years 2na has established himself as one of hip-hop’s most celebrated and charismatic personalities, collaborating with a plethora of artists such as Mos Def & Linkin Park.

Here’s a Groovement chat from 2013…

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DJ Shadow, UNKLE, Morcheeba / Victoria Warehouse
2025-08-15 17:00 | O2 Victoria Warehouse, Trafford Park, Stretford,, Manchester, M17 1AB, United Kingdom
Not sure of a link for this one yet, looks like it may have been announced too early.

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WORKINONIT / Stage & Radio
2025-08-31 17:00 - 21:00
Not for profit Beat Makers Event, monthly. INSTAGRAM

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Goldie Lookin' Chain / MCR Academy
2025-09-05 19:00 | Manchester Academy, University Of Manchester Students' Union, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PR, United Kingdom
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Lowkey / Blues Kitchen
2025-09-07 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
One of the UK’s most potent and electrifying rappers, Lowkey is a towering figure of the scene who renews the old tradition of conscious hip hop activism.

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Surprise Chef / YES
2025-09-10 19:00 | YES, 38 Charles Street, Manchester, M1 7DB

Jehst / Blues Kitchen
2025-09-21 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
One of the UK’s most iconic Hip-Hop artists – Jehst – takes to the road this year or a full UK and Ireland tour.

Having been at the forefront the UK’s Hip-Hop scene for the past 25 years Jehst has been pushing the boundaries of his chosen art-form while providing the blueprint for countless sound-alikes, Jehst’s sound has defined a generation. With a discography now stretching into triple figures his career has been typified by a restless creativity and side-projects galore.

Performing all the best loved tracks from his countless incredible albums, singles, mixtapes and features as well as music from his forthcoming album. This live show is sure to be another highlight of one of the most accomplished home-grown rap careers.

As an MC, producer and driving force behind his own YNR label Jehst has asserted himself as possibly the most influential rapper to ever emerge from these shores and this September with our help he is reaching as much of his UK wide audience as possible!

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Lord Finesse / Blues Kitchen
2025-09-24 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
From his 1990 debut The Funky Technician to producing for giants like Biggie, Big L, and Dr. Dre, Lord Finesse has left an indelible mark on Hip Hop culture. His beats and bars helped define an era – and even fueled Fatboy Slim’s massive hit “The Rockafeller Skank” with one of his signature samples.

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Sonnyjim + Beni Laylo, J Littles, Shortee Blitz, DJ SQUAREWAVE / Stage & Radio
2025-09-25 19:00 | stage and radio, 43 Port Street, Manchester, M1 2EQ, United Kingdom
Sonnyjim, Birmingham’s underground kingpin is touching down in Stage & Radio for the Manchester leg of his European Tour. Beni Layo, J Littles + more are on support duties and UK legends Shortee Blitz and DJ SQUAREWAVE are on deck throughout the evening.   Come check this hip-hop heavyweight this September and hear classic cuts from projects such as Mud in My Malbec and the MF DOOM–blessed White Girl Wasted.  Tickets are at £15 live now on Skiddle & Dice   Tell a friend to tell a friend this is not to be missed.

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Cymande / Albert Hall
2025-10-16 19:00 | Albert Hall, 27 Peter St, Manchester, M2 5QR
Back with their first LP since 1974…

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DJ Premier x The Alchemist / O2 Ritz
2025-11-20 19:00 | O2 Ritz, Whitworth St West, Manchester, M1 5NQ, United Kingdom

Daraa Tribes + Gnawa Manchester
2026-01-11 19:00 | Band On The Wall, 27 Swan St, Manchester, M4 5JZ, United Kingdom

Ibibio Sound Machine
2026-01-17 19:00 | Band On The Wall, 27 Swan St, Manchester, M4 5JZ, United Kingdom
Fronted by Nigerian singer Eno Williams, this incredible, energetic band crosses all boundaries. Their sound is a unique clash of African and electronic elements, inspired in equal measure by the golden era of West-African funk and disco and modern post-punk and electro.

Ibibio Sound Machine were founded by Eno Williams and Max Grunhard in 2013 with the idea of combining the unique sound of the Ibibio language that Eno spoke growing up in Nigeria, with both traditional West African and more modern electronic musical elements. They linked up with Merge Records in 2017 for Uyai and returned with Doko Mien in 2019 and have gone on to win global critical acclaim.

Bar open: 1.00pmArtists on stage: 7.30pmCurfew: 10.00pmStage: The VenueAudience: Standing

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Lords Of The Underground
2026-01-22 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
Lords of the Underground – the iconic hip-hop trio known for their high-energy shows and legendary collaborations with Nas and Pete Rock – take over the concert hall.

They made their mark with the 1993 debut Here Come the Lords, delivering classics like “Chief Rocka” and “Funky Child,” followed by Keepers of the Funk in 1994. A defining act of hip-hop’s Golden Age, their influence still runs deep today.

Catch Lords of the Underground live this January at The Blues Kitchen Manchester.

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Third Kulture EP launch
2026-01-22 20:00
Third Kulture are a hybrid rock-rap band formed in Manchester. The dynamic trio are loud and unapologetically themselves, embodying the essence of diversity, innovation, and cultural fusion.

Third Kulture’s unique sound draws from all corners of their diverse cultural influence, blending mesmerising R&B vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and the cutting-edge influences of grime and modern rap with flavours of UK rave music, dancehall and trip-hop.

Third Kulture already have some noteworthy milestones; following the release of their debut EP in April 2024, the 3-piece embarked on their first UK tour covering Bristol, Bradford, London, Leeds, Birmingham and Manchester. Third Kulture have supported the likes of Swedish grunge-rap duo Deki Alem, Bristol’s punk-raver Grove, and London based deathcore band Harbinger.

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Kofi Stone (rescheduled)
2026-01-29 19:00
Playground rap battles, handmade mixtape cover art and a Birmingham upbringing are just a few of the elements that make Kofi Stone a captivating artist. His pairs a laidback delivery with substantial lyrical content, touching on topics from family structures to the repetitive state of rap culture. Whatever he turns his tongue to, his work with producers such as Jake Milliner and fellow Brummie Joe Corfield has shaped a sound that merges the best of ’90s hip-hop with golden cuts from mid-century jazz.

TICKETS

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Naomi Kalu EP Launch
2026-02-03 20:00 | Band On The Wall, 27 Swan St, Manchester, M4 5JZ, United Kingdom
Naomi Kalu is a dynamic multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter whose soulful sound blends influences from across genres. A vocalist, acoustic guitarist and pianist pianist, Naomi crafts music that is both heartfelt and rhythmically rich.

She has performed at a range of major events and festivals, including Sheba Arts Festival, Manchester International Festival, Moovin Festival, and Shy Fest II & III. Naomi has also shared stages with acclaimed artists such as Liam Bailey (on tour), Pan Amsterdam, Jeremiah Ferrari, and Lou Gold — performing both solo and alongside her talented band. A 2023–24 Sheba Arts Talent Development Artist, Naomi has since flourished as a solo performer while also leading her own band, who have featured in several of her headline shows at venues including 33 Oldham Street, The Eagle Inn, and The Carlton Club Her growing presence on the Manchester music scene has also seen her featured on Tameside Radio, Reform Radio, Fab Radio, ALL FM, and more. Naomi’s debut EP marks an exciting new chapter — a culmination of her journey so far, showcasing her signature blend of raw emotion, lyrical honesty, and musical versatility. Naomi’s debut EP will be released on Friday 30th January 2026 The Copper Bar holds a special place in Naomi’s heart, as it’s where she made her live debut. Doors open at 8pm

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Bob Vylan
2026-02-05 19:00 | Manchester Academy, University Of Manchester Students' Union, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PR, United Kingdom
A rescheduled date from the end of last year, with tickets still valid.

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Verb T w/ Sammy B-Side
2026-02-12 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
From his early days on Low Life Records, through landmark releases on YNR Productions, to his current home at High Focus Records, Verb T has consistently set the bar for lyricism, flow, and originality. A founding member of The Four Owls and collaborator with legends including DJ Premier, his music balances sharp storytelling, classic 90s influences, and forward-thinking production. Reuniting with Canadian producer Vic Grimes, Verb T returns at the end of 2025 with a highly anticipated new album To Love a Phantom.

This February is a rare chance to witness him command the stage, delivering razor-sharp bars and a live energy that has defined UK hip hop for decades.

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Brazilian Carnival: Gustavo Andrade & The Brasukas + Zagotinho do Acordeon + Bacana
2026-02-13 19:00
The heartbeat of Brazil arrives in Manchester. On this special night, Band on the Wall transforms into a temple of rhythm, joy, and passion — a place where the warmth of Rio meets the soul of the city.

Let yourself be carried away by the irresistible sounds of Gustavo Andrade & The Brasukas, joined by the one and only Zagotinho do Acordeon. Their music pulses with life — samba, forró, and bossa that make the body sway and the spirit dance.

Caipirinhas in hand, smiles in every corner, love and laughter in the air — this is Carnival. The songs you know, the rhythms you feel, the night you’ll never forget.

More than a concert, it’s a celebration of life, of love, of the beautiful chaos that makes us dance together. Come dressed in colour, bring your best energy, and surrender to the rhythm.

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Earl Sweatshirt
2026-02-14 19:00 | Albert Hall, 27 Peter St, Manchester, M2 5QR
We host the globally acclaimed rapper on Valentines day.

Earl’s new album, Live Laugh Love, is as thoughtful and surrealist, and embarks on a contemplation of the chaos of existence. What started as a tongue-in-cheek critique of the irony in the phrase developed into a genuine examination of the nostalgia of joy and the simplicity of genuine connection. LLL charts Earl’s path to growth, one that demands a constant wrestling with the past and aspires to return to such moments. “I named it before I wrote it,” he says. “And then everything started clicking.”

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The Cavemen
2026-02-17 19:30 | Band On The Wall, 27 Swan St, Manchester, M4 5JZ, United Kingdom
The Cavemen is a Lagos, Nigeria-based ‘Afrocentric influenced’ duo comprising of Kingsley Chukwudi Okorie and his brother Benjamin Chukwudi James.

Filled with a desire to make the kind of music they grew up listening to, the Cavemen have undertaken a journey to bring the sounds of the past into the future, positioning themselves as a bridge between generations.

The Cavemen developed a genre called ‘Highlife Fusion’ which combines Highlife, Afrobeat, Jazz, and Soul music. They are the modern torch bearers for Highlife music.

Since their debut, the band have released two studio albums – ‘Roots’ and ‘Love and Highlife’ grossing over 90 million streams and winning multiple awards along the way.

The Cavemen are not only a display of masterful musicianship, but the brothers are also a vibrant representation of the importance of celebrating our past heroes through music.

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Talib Kweli
2026-02-23 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
I’m really pleased to be warming up for Kweli again, he was really gracious about my set last time so expect to hear choice reggae, hip hop and soul for the opening slot. He absolutely smashed it with Yasiin for their Manchester Black Star date too in November.

This February, we welcome hip-hop legend Talib Kweli to The Blues Kitchen.

Renowned for his sharp and politically insightful lyricism, the Brooklyn MC stands as one of the most influential voices in hip-hop over the past two decades.

His resume includes work with Black Star and Reflection Eternal, alongside a critically acclaimed solo career. This will be one unforgettable night with one of the genre’s true greats.

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Fabiano do Nascimento
2026-02-26 19:00 | Band On The Wall
Fabiano do Nascimento is a Rio de Janeiro-born, Los Angeles and Tokyo-based guitarist, composer, arranger, and producer, known for his stunning tapestry of intricately woven, multi-string performances. Fabiano is a singular voice in contemporary music, blending the deep traditions of Brazilian jazz with an adventurous, genre-fluid approach. His music effortlessly moves between hypnotic ambient soundscapes, intricate acoustic-electronic textures, and the infectious rhythms of bossa nova.

Rooted in the rhythms of Afro-samba and choro, his compositions fuse elements of American jazz, experimental electronica, and orchestral arrangements, creating a sound that is expansive by nature. His unique voice in contemporary music has led to collaborations with world-class artists such as Airto Moreira, Arthur Verocai, Sam Gendel, Carioca Freitas, Beirut, Aloe Blacc, Daniel Santiago, Itiberê Zwarg, and Vittor Santos, among many others.

Fabiano’s musical journey began in Rio de Janeiro, where he grew up in a family deeply connected to music. His great-grandfather, Ladario Teixeira, was a blind virtuoso saxophonist who helped shape the instrument’s role in Brazilian music. Though initially trained in classical piano, Fabiano’s passion was ignited when he picked up the guitar at age ten. His devotion to the instrument led him to study intensively under the mentorship of his late uncle, Lucio Nascimento, a revered bassist, composer, and arranger.

In 2001, Fabiano moved to Los Angeles, where his distinct artistry quickly gained recognition. He first made waves as a founding member of the critically acclaimed Latin jazz group Triorganico before launching a prolific solo career. His discography spans nine full-length LPs, released on esteemed labels including Now-Again Records (Dança dos Tempos, Tempos dos Mestres, Prelúdio, Ykytu, Lendas), Far Out Recordings (Mundo Solo), Leaving Records (Das Nuvens), and Real World Records (The Room). His music has been celebrated by major media outlets, with highlights including a feature on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts.

A seasoned live performer, Fabiano has toured extensively across North America and Asia, and his debut European tour in 2024 saw multiple sold-out shows, including a standout performance at London’s ICA. His versatility extends beyond intimate solo and ensemble performances—he has also played with a symphony orchestra in Brazil, further showcasing the depth and adaptability of his artistry.

With a sound that is both timeless and forward-thinking, Fabiano do Nascimento continues to carve out a unique space in global music, seamlessly bridging past and present while captivating audiences worldwide.

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The Free Label + Bare Jams
2026-02-27 19:30 | YES, 38 Charles Street, Manchester, M1 7DB
The Free Label is a six-member band from Toronto, Canada, blending 70s disco, 90s R&B, and high-energy funk into an electrifying, dance-driven experience. Their 2019 single “All Night” led to international tours across Europe, North America, and Australia, gaining a loyal following.

They’ve played major Canadian festivals, including Mariposa Folk Festival and the Calgary Stampede, and opened for T-Pain, Aqua, and Lupe Fiasco. The band has also toured the U.S., opening for various artists and performing at universities across the country.

In 2024, Songs for Sienna, their highly anticipated album, earned them a spot on the Amazon Music Billboard in Dundas Square, Toronto. Tracks like “Crimes of Passion” have gained global attention.

With over 15 million views of their live performances in the last year, The Free Label’s energetic shows and natural chemistry continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

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Sol And The Gang (additional date)
2026-03-04 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
Due to overwhelming demand and the first show selling out, we’re thrilled to announce a second date. Sol and The Gang have lit up stages across the country with their high-energy shows – seamlessly fusing R&B, hip-hop, soul, and afrobeats.

They are by J-Sol, whose career has seen him win acclaim from some of the biggest names in music like Simon Cowell and Nile Rodgers. His powerhouse collective brings together some of the UK’s finest musicians for a live experience that’s impossible to sit still through.

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Sol And The Gang
2026-03-05 19:00 | The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HN, United Kingdom
Sol and The Gang have lit up stages across the country with their high-energy shows – seamlessly fusing R&B, hip-hop, soul, and afrobeats.

They are by J-Sol, whose career has seen him win acclaim from some of the biggest names in music like Simon Cowell and Nile Rodgers. His powerhouse collective brings together some of the UK’s finest musicians for a live experience that’s impossible to sit still through.

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Egyptian Lover + Atiké + DR. MYSTERY
2026-03-06 23:00 | Band On The Wall, 27 Swan St, Manchester, M4 5JZ, United Kingdom

Wu Tang pre-show: Inspectah Deck Q&A
2026-03-19 17:00 - 18:30 | Gorilla, 54-56 Whitworth St W, Manchester, M1 5WW
Read more here.

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BexBlu With Paul Stephan
2026-03-21 19:00 | The Deaf Institute, 135 Grosvenor St, Manchester, M1 7HE
BexBlu has been celebrated for his fusion of grime vocals with mellow, jazz-inflected production.

Positioning himself as a key figure in the new wave of UK rap, he has racked up millions of views and streams in the process.

Embarking on a UK wide tour with esteemed rapper and vocalist Paul Stephan, BexBlu will be arriving at The Deaf Institute this March.

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