Some of the biggest names in music are joining forces to support women and children in Ukraine with a charity concert called Songs of Freedom at Manchester's Live Co-Op Arena in February.
The star-studded show will feature live performances by Bob Geldof, Chrissie Hynde and Midge Ure, while Paul McCartney and Barbra Streisand will appear via video link.
Live Aid veterans and more
In 1985, the Boomtown Rats star and Ure launched Live Aid to raise funds to stop famine in Ethiopia. The movement began with the release of the charity single Do They Know It's Christmas in December 1984.
Performing alongside Geldof will be The Doobie Brothers, Madness, Peter Hook & The Light, The Lathums, Nick Lowe and Inspiral Carpets, with more names to be announced.
Supporting Ukrainian resilience
Ukraine has been devastated since Russia's large-scale invasion on February 24 four years ago, marking the largest European conflict since World War II. Hundreds of thousands of lives have been lost in both countries, including military and civilian casualties.
As the war intensifies and energy attacks cripple daily life, women, children and vulnerable communities are among the hardest hit. The concert aims to raise vital funds and global awareness while celebrating Ukrainian resilience.
Promoter Harvey Goldsmith CBE said: "I am really pleased to have the opportunity to play my part in helping the Children and Communities in Ukraine. This war has gone on far too long and more and more children are suffering as a result. The concert at Coop in Manchester will highlight their plight. We must stand together and play a role in pressuring the need to stop this war."
Origins and ticket details
The initiative grew from the efforts of Carlisle indie-rock outfit Hardwicke Circus, with manager Dave Robinson, who became the first UK band to tour Ukraine following the full-scale invasion. During tours in June and November 2025, the band performed for local communities and delivered frontline emergency evacuation vehicles.
All proceeds from Songs of Freedom will go directly to verified humanitarian organisations on the ground. Tickets for the show on Wednesday 3 February 2027 go on general sale on Monday 16 November, with venue pre-sales beginning on Thursday 12 November.
