Matt Haig, the award-winning author of The Midnight Library and Reasons to Stay Alive, has shared the emotional story of attending The Cure's Blackweir Live performance in Cardiff on Wednesday, June 25. The invitation came from the band's bassist, Simon Gallup, who is a fan of Haig's work.
Invitation from a Fan
Gallup reached out to Haig via email, explaining that he and his daughter had read Haig's books "during their most difficult time." Haig, a lifelong fan of The Cure, accepted the invitation and attended the concert at Blackweir Fields.
In an Instagram post, Haig described the concert as "incredible," noting that The Cure was the first band he ever saw live and remain his absolute favorite. "They don't just write songs. They created a world to live inside. Gloomy and mysterious, yes, but safe and free," he wrote.
Emotional Backstage Meeting
After the show, Haig met Gallup backstage. He admitted to doubting whether the bassist would recognize him or if the invitation was merely a PR stunt. However, the meeting turned deeply emotional. Haig recounted: "I had one of the most emotional conversations I have ever had with anyone who has read my books. He and his daughter read The Midnight Library and Reasons to Stay Alive during their most difficult time. I was told I am a big bond between him and his daughter. He told me they got him through, pulled him off the floor. We cried together. I told him how The Cure had got me through too."
Haig described Gallup as "the loveliest man," adding that the bassist was nervous about sending the email and thought Haig might not respond. The author reflected on his own self-doubt: "I sometimes doubt myself. My work. I sometimes wonder why musicians like it more than writers. I still have self esteem issues... But speaking to people recently who it has helped - especially people whose work has helped me - is truly making me see a purpose to it all."
A Song in the Setlist
Haig also noted that The Cure's current setlist includes the song "The Last Day of Summer" because it features prominently in his novel The Life Impossible. Gallup apologized to Haig after the show, saying, "I really fucked it tonight as I knew you were watching." Haig reassured him, telling him it sounded perfect. "As was the whole night. Which my 14 year old self, watching The Cure in 1989, would never have believed. Life is circular. Dark but shining," Haig wrote.
Blackweir Live Lineup
The Cure kicked off this year's Blackweir Live events, a series that also includes Teddy Swims, Lewis Capaldi, and Pitbull. Blackweir, a collaboration between DEPOT Live and promoters Cuffe and Taylor, has quickly become a key venue in Cardiff. Teddy Swims performs on Friday, June 26, with tickets available from £74.55.
