By Estefany Rial
From the moment the sun rose over Manchester, it was clear something special was about to happen. Fans of Bradley Simpson, many of whom have followed him since his days as the frontman of The Vamps, gathered outside the O2 Ritz in Manchester the early hours of the day of the show on May 16, 2025, buzzing with anticipation for a night that would celebrate a new chapter in his solo career.
The first VIP ticket holder arrived at 5AM despite the promise of early entry, determined to claim a front row view of her favorite artist. By 8AM, the general admission line was already filled with excited fans. Some wrapped in blankets, others clinging homemade signs or wearing themed outfits.
Among the crowd were Rose and Molly, who have become mini-legends among Bradley’s fanbase. Dressed as giant bananas, they were attending their third show on The Panic Years tour. Bradley recognizes them at every show, a testament to the genuine connection he shares with his fans.
Inside the venue, the soundcheck offered a preview of the magic to come. With thunderous drumbeats resonating through the floor, fans could feel the build up in their bones. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation.
Source: Famease Media
Opening the show was Nieve Ella, the 22-year-old indie breakout who’s quickly becoming Gen Z’s most relatable voice. Performing songs from her acclaimed EP Watch It Ache and Bleed, including Sugarcoated, Nieve delivered a set packed with vulnerability and clarity. The Manchester crowd responded with unfiltered love singing back every word, cheering between tracks and creating the kind of live chemistry most opening acts can only dream of. Nieve clearly touched, was seen smiling in disbelief between songs. For someone still navigating the early stages of fame, it felt like a defining moment.
When Bradley Simpson took the stage, the energy inside the room swelled instantly. Launching into Getting Clear, the tone was set for a night of honesty, vulnerability, and total musical command. Picasso followed, a burst of life that saw Bradley dancing across the stage, charming the crowd and radiating presence.
After a couple of song in, Bradley took a brief pause in the set to share a special announcement. He’d be performing the new version of his song “Favourite Band” live joined by rising star Nieve Ella. The crowd exploded with excitement as the duo hit the stage together, trading harmonies, high notes and playful glances. There was an undeniable chemistry between them, a shared “we did it”energy that felt like a full-circle moment between friends. Dancing across the stage and grinning at one another, it was more than just a performance, it was a celebration of creative collaboration, growth and mutual support.
A standout moment came mid-set when Bradley left the stage, guitar in hand and moved into the crowd to perform The Band Is Not Breaking Up a cappella. The venue fell into a hushed awe as his raw vocals floated above the silence. It was intimate, emotional, a moment that made the entire room feel like a secret shared.
Then came the ultimate crowd pleaser: Bradley revealed a custom “Manchester” tank top, a tribute to the city that sent fans into a screaming frenzy. Proudly showing love for a city that’s supported him since day one, the gesture felt deeply personal. The night closed with favorite anthems Daisies and Carpet Burn. These tracks, beloved for their emotional weight and singalong-worthy choruses, capped off a show that was both high-impact and heart-driven.
From the dedicated fans outside in the early morning to the last chord echoing through the venue, Bradley Simpson’s Manchester stop on The Panic Years tour was more than a concert – it was a milestone. With Nieve Ella’s standout opening performance, unforgettable crowd interactions, and a headliner who’s fully stepped into his own artistry, this night proved that Bradley is no longer just the frontman of a beloved band – he’s an artist charting his own path, and doing it beautifully.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his solo journey, The Panic Years live experience is one you won’t forget, and if Manchester is any indication, the best is still to come.
Check out Bradley Simpson’s upcoming tour dates and latest news on his official website.
Source: Famease Media