Artists including Sam Fender, Chappell Roan and the Foo Fighters played sold-out shows in Manchester, Liverpool and across the North West in 2024, helping to boost music tourism
Sam Fender, Chappell Roan and the Foo Fighters rocked the North West’s music scene, contributing to a staggering £1.2 billion surge in music tourism last year, a new report has highlighted. In 2024, live gigs attracted 3.3 million music revellers, including international fans, with electrifying performances in Manchester, Liverpool, and other hotspots.
The region resonated with tunes from diverse genres, featuring Sam Fender at Co-op Live, Chappell Roan rocking out at Manchester Academy, and the Foo Fighters thrilling crowds at Emirates Old Trafford. Festivals like Parklife, Creamfields and Beat-Herder also played host to hordes of music enthusiasts descending on the North West.
UK Music’s Tuesday report shed light on the commercial boon, pointing out that these sonic adventures supported roughly 9,250 full-time jobs across the sector. Ticket sales, food and drink, merchandise, venue parking, camping fees, accommodation, and travel expenses all contributed to the hefty economic lift from music tourists.
Nationwide, the number of “music tourists” hit a high note with about 21.9 million Brits travelling well beyond their average commute for a spot of live music escapism. Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour took the limelight, but a further 1.6 million international visitors also jetted in, lured by the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Burna Boy, according to the illuminating study.
The report has revealed a record-breaking £10 billion boost to the UK economy in 2024, with 23.5 million music tourists flocking to the country, marking a high note for the industry’s post-pandemic recovery.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy celebrated the nation’s vibrant live music scene, stating: “Whether it’s a massive stadium show or a packed-out local venue, music is bringing people together and making a huge difference. We’re incredibly proud of our music industry. It’s one of our greatest exports, it inspires young people everywhere, and it’s part of who we are as a country.”
She also highlighted the Government’s commitment to the arts with the recent announcement of a £30 million “music growth package” aimed at nurturing new talent and safeguarding venues, ensuring the music scene continues to thrive and scale new heights.
Tom Kiehl, chief executive of UK Music, however, pointed out that despite the sector’s economic triumphs, there are still significant financial hurdles to overcome.
“While music generates huge benefits for our local areas, there remain a number of challenges facing our sector, such as the rising cost of touring for artists and the threat of closure looming over venues, studios and other music spaces,” Mr Kiehl commented.
“From Land’s End to John O’Groats, all communities have the potential for thriving and diverse music sectors and can offer something unique. At a time when Government is seeking growth, it is crucial to empower local leaders to make this happen to help boost our artists, creators, venues, studios and music businesses.”
The report introduces the local music action charter, which UK Music said will “help councils and combined authorities create locally tailored music strategies aligned with their specific priorities”.
Councillor Liz Green, chairwoman of the Local Government Association’s culture, tourism and sport board, commented: “These record-breaking figures show just how important live music is – not just for our local economies, but for the happiness of our communities.
“The report is a timely reminder that investing in local music isn’t just good sense – it’s a way to boost pride in place and breathe new life into our high streets. We’re committed to working with local partners to make sure music continues to thrive in every corner of the UK.”
Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.