Manchester Academy recently hosted one of the most heartfelt and energetic performances I’ve witnessed in a long time. Fans poured through the doors, eager to get a spot at the front, and the atmosphere inside the larger venue highlighted just how much Tom Grennan’s popularity has skyrocketed since his performance in one of Manchester’s smaller venues the previous year.
The night kicked off with an incredible opening act, Everything Is Imagined. Their infectious energy had the crowd swaying, and the younger fans looked mesmerized as they sang along. Even as the venue filled up, their unique sound captivated the audience, making them one to watch for the future.
Ellie Ingram followed, bathed in pink light and surrounded by a set of lamps, creating a cozy yet soulful vibe. Accompanied by a saxophone, guitar, and drums, her performance was truly memorable. The crowd was entranced by her heartfelt songs and effortless stage presence. What stood out was her individuality—her authenticity, combined with the intimate stage setup, made her an unexpected standout.
Then, the moment everyone had been waiting for: Tom Grennan. As the lights dimmed, an electric energy filled the room. Fans were jumping even before he appeared on stage. Guitar in hand, he opened with a powerful acoustic rendition of “Sweet Hallelujah” from his debut album. The crowd erupted in cheers, with hands reaching out as he delivered an emotionally charged performance. His energy was infectious, running from one side of the stage to the other, making sure to connect with fans in every corner of the room.
The set was filled with fan favorites, including “Royal Highness,” “Found What I’ve Been Looking For,” “Sober,” and “Lighting Matches.” Couples around me were singing along, and it felt as if the songs were written just for them. Despite battling illness—he jokingly mentioned he felt “as sick as a dog”—Tom didn’t miss a beat, delivering an unforgettable show.
Throughout the night, Tom repeatedly thanked the audience, calling them his “family,” and it was easy to see why. From his stage dive to the fans singing every word back to him, the bond between performer and crowd was palpable. His words, “Manchester, my name is Tom Grennan and I f*ing love ya,” felt genuine as he waved to the younger fans sitting on their parents’ shoulders.
As the night drew to a close and fans spilled out onto Oxford Road, it was clear that Tom Grennan and Manchester had shared something special. The energy, passion, and connection between artist and audience made this one of the best performances I’ve seen in a long time, and I have no doubt he’ll return to Manchester soon.
