Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has described the upcoming BRIT Awards in Manchester as an 'emotional moment', marking a historic shift as the ceremony leaves London for the first time. The event will be held at the Co-op Live arena next month, and Burnham says it reflects the city's thriving music scene and long journey of regeneration.
Speaking at the BRITs nominations reveal, Burnham told the Mirror: 'I've waited all of my life to see Manchester starting to host all of these things. It's a massive sign that the city is thriving, booming – the most vibrant city in the UK.' He added that music has been central to Manchester's transformation, saying: 'Manchester has been on a long road back, and I believe music started that change journey.'
Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig highlighted the economic and cultural impact of live music, noting that 1.2 million people visited the city for concerts last summer, including 340,000 for Oasis's five sold-out shows at Heaton Park. She said the BRITs showcase 'past, present and future' talent, and that the city never rests on its history.
The Co-op Live, Europe's largest indoor live music venue, has helped Manchester host world-class artists alongside the AO Arena. Craig dismissed doubts about the city's capacity to support two major arenas, saying both are now thriving. Burnham emphasised that music is 'mainstream' in Manchester, with a network of venues from grassroots to large-scale, and that protecting them remains a priority.
