If you’ve just tuned into the Brit Awards, you may notice that things look a little different. For the first time in Brit Awards history, the ceremony is taking place outside of London at Manchester’s Co-op Live – or ‘up Norf’ as Bez might say. And if you don’t know who Bez is, well, I despair!
The Brit Awards have been around since 1977 and became a regularly broadcast event in 1982. It’s hard to believe that, in nearly 50 years, the ceremony has never taken place outside London. Despite some of the world’s best musical talent – hello, BritPop! – originating in Manchester, northern musicians have long been forced to take the LNER to celebrate the Brit Awards in person. I mean, can you imagine the Gallagher brothers on a packed train? Don’t answer that.
Yep, it was finally the turn of the London lot to make the journey, joining plenty of Manchester legends like Noel Gallagher, Aitch, and even Mayor Andy Bunham at the illustrious awards ceremony.
Why are the Brit Awards in Manchester this year?
Basically, it’s time for a change. Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The BRIT Awards and Manchester were made for each other. As a city that is already known across the globe for music and culture, alongside our expertise in major world-class events, we’ve come together to make the BRITs in Manchester a special celebration and the best ever.
“Music, culture, and creativity are a massive part of Manchester, both as a way of life, and a driver that’s helped our city grow, helping shape what the city is today and what it will be tomorrow.
“The BRITs in Manchester was never about just a one-off event, but about how we inspire our communities and the next generation of music industry talent to make their mark, and so we set about to do something different, a city takeover with events and activities that everyone can get involved in – and from art trails to live music we’re already seeing its success. We’re big believers in the power of music and culture to change lives, which is why we’re also really proud that this year has seen the first-ever BRITs Fringe take place across the city in the run-up to the awards, creating fantastic learning opportunities and other unique experiences for local people to get involved in.”
Oh, and for the record, Bez played the maracas – and curated the vibes – for Manchester rock band Happy Mondays. Look ’em up.
For more from Glamour UK‘s Lucy Morgan, follow her on Instagram @lucyalexxandra or on TikTok at @lucyalexxandra.