This Saturday night, BBC Radio 1Xtra marked its 15th anniversary with a vibrant celebration filled with music, drinks, and an electrifying audience that never sat still. The sold-out event at Manchester Arena promised an unforgettable night featuring the best in UK and international black and urban music, bringing together their largest audience to date.
Fans flocked to the venue from across the UK, with attendees from London, Liverpool, Birmingham, and the local Manchester crowd joining in the festivities. The arena was packed with thousands of music lovers, all eager to enjoy an incredible lineup and the energetic atmosphere—making their journey to Manchester completely worthwhile.
The lineup this year was nothing short of spectacular. Among the performers were 19-year-old Londoner Not3s, chart-topping rapper and songwriter Stefflon Don, and North-West London rapper Donae’o, known for his collaboration on the number one hit “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Manchester’s own grime star Bugzy Malone opened for the English recording artist J Hus, whose hit “Did You See” reached number nine on the UK Singles Chart. The night culminated with a show-stopping performance from American rapper, songwriter, and producer Travis Scott, winner of the Teen Choice Awards for Electronic/Dance Song.
In a delightful surprise for the audience, Big Shaq made a cameo, playfully interrupting Charlie Sloth. The playful banter culminated in Big Shaq’s iconic response, “Nah, nah, nah! Mans not hot!” prompting the crowd to join in as the catchy rhythm of “Mans Not Hot” echoed throughout the arena.
French Montana’s performance was equally memorable, igniting the stage with spectacular special effects that left the audience in awe. “Manchester had a rough time this year, but we are here in this place again, proving that Mancunians stick together,” Bugzy Malone said, dedicating his performance to “the people we lost at Ariana Grande’s concert.”
As the night heated up with French Montana’s fiery set, J Hus brought a playful twist by splashing water on the audience, only for the temperature to rise again with Travis Scott‘s electrifying performance. Over the course of 25 minutes, Scott captivated fans with his dynamic presence, complete with stunning special effects.
The highlight of the night came when an enthusiastic fan jumped on stage during Travis’s set. Despite the quick intervention of security, Travis invited the fan to stay and sing alongside him, creating a magical moment. Shortly after, another fan joined in for an unforgettable hug with the rapper.
As the night came to a close, attendees left fascinated and excited, with many already planning to attend next year’s 1Xtra Live event, knowing that BBC Radio 1Xtra knows how to throw an epic party.
