Obongjayar Manchester Concert - November 2025

Obongjayar: A Deep Dive into Manchester’s R&B Revelation at Gorilla

Manchester’s vibrant music scene is set to ignite with the highly anticipated arrival of Obongjayar at the intimate and iconic Gorilla on Monday, 24 November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an immersion into the soulful depths and electrifying stage presence of one of the UK’s most captivating R&B artists. As the city gears up to welcome this sonic architect, expect an evening that transcends the ordinary, weaving a tapestry of introspective lyricism, infectious grooves, and a raw, unvarnished energy that has come to define Obongjayar’s unique artistry. From his burgeoning independent releases to his more recent critical acclaim, this performance promises to be a landmark moment, showcasing his evolution and reaffirming his position as a vital voice in contemporary R&B. Get ready to be moved, to dance, and to connect with the profound emotional landscape Obongjayar so masterfully crafts.

The Ascendant Star: A Comprehensive Look at Obongjayar

Obongjayar, born Steven Mark Udombana, has steadily carved a distinctive path through the R&B landscape, distinguishing himself with a sound that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Hailing from Nigeria and later settling in London, his music is a rich confluence of his heritage, his experiences as an immigrant, and his keen observations on life, love, and the complexities of human connection. His career trajectory has been marked by consistent artistic growth, moving from self-released EPs that garnered significant underground buzz to securing critical acclaim and a burgeoning international following.

Obongjayar’s musical style defies easy categorization, masterfully blending soulful R&B with elements of afrobeat, hip-hop, and even touches of garage. His vocal delivery is a key feature – a rich, resonant baritone capable of conveying both tender vulnerability and assertive power. This versatility allows him to navigate a spectrum of emotions, from melancholic introspection to unbridled celebration, often within the same track. His lyrics are insightful and poetic, offering narratives that are both relatable and thought-provoking, exploring themes of identity, displacement, longing, and self-discovery. This lyrical depth, combined with his infectious rhythmic sensibilities, creates a sonic world that is both challenging and deeply rewarding for the listener.

Over the years, Obongjayar has released a string of singles and EPs that have cemented his reputation as a formidable talent. His 2020 EP, “Which Way Is Home?”, was a critical breakthrough, showcasing his mature songwriting and sonic experimentation. More recently, his debut album, “Some Nights I Feel Like Walking,” released in 2023, further propelled him into the mainstream consciousness, earning widespread praise for its cohesiveness and artistic vision.

Among his notable songs that have resonated with audiences and critics alike are:

• “Frens”: An early track that established his knack for crafting catchy, emotionally charged anthems about relationships.
• “Adura”: A powerful and spiritual offering that showcases his Nigerian roots and his ability to weave tradition into modern R&B.
• “The Beginning”: A standout from his debut album, highlighting his introspective lyricism and evolving sonic palette.
• “Where You Are”: A tender and yearning track that perfectly encapsulates his ability to convey deep emotion.
• “Jungle”: A more upbeat and rhythmically driven song that demonstrates his versatility and his afrobeat influences.
• “Through The Night”: A testament to his raw vocal power and his capacity for delivering heart-wrenching ballads.
• “Sweet Silence”: A recent fan favourite, known for its smooth production and its evocative storytelling.
• “Wrong For It”: A collaboration that further showcases his ability to connect with other artists and explore new sonic territories.

These tracks, among many others, paint a vivid picture of an artist who is not afraid to be vulnerable, to experiment, and to speak his truth through his music, making his live performances an unmissable experience.

Gorilla Manchester: An Intimate Stage for a Powerful Performance

Gorilla, nestled in the heart of Manchester’s Deansgate Locks, is a beloved multi-purpose venue renowned for its intimate atmosphere and its commitment to showcasing diverse musical talent. With its exposed brickwork, industrial charm, and a capacity that fosters a genuine connection between artist and audience, it provides the perfect setting for Obongjayar’s soulful and engaging performance. The venue’s reputation for excellent sound quality and its accessible location make it an ideal space for fans to experience Obongjayar’s captivating R&B melodies and powerful stage presence up close. For full venue details, see our venue guide.

Navigating Your Way to Obongjayar’s Manchester Date

For those travelling to see Obongjayar at Gorilla, the most convenient arrival point is Manchester Piccadilly Station, which serves as a major hub for national rail services. From Piccadilly, it’s a straightforward journey of approximately 15-20 minutes on foot to the venue, or a short taxi or tram ride. Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink station is also within easy walking distance, offering excellent connections across the city. While parking is available in the vicinity, it can be limited and costly, especially on a weekday evening; therefore, public transport is highly recommended. To ensure a relaxed entry and to soak in the atmosphere before the show, aim to arrive at Gorilla 30-45 minutes early.

Fueling Up: Pre-Show Bites and Sips Near Gorilla

Before immersing yourself in Obongjayar’s R&B magic, Manchester offers a plethora of dining and drinking options within easy reach of Gorilla. For a casual yet flavourful pre-gig meal, Bundobust provides an excellent selection of Indian street food and craft beers, perfect for sharing. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, The Flour Pot bakery offers delicious pizzas and a relaxed vibe. For a classic pub experience with a wide range of ales and hearty fare, The Peveril of the Peak, a distinctive circular pub, is a local institution and just a short stroll away. These establishments offer a convenient and enjoyable way to kickstart your evening before heading to the show.

Ticket Demand and Pricing for Obongjayar at Gorilla

Anticipation for Obongjayar’s performance at Gorilla is understandably high, reflecting his growing popularity and the intimate nature of the venue. Tickets for such sought-after R&B acts at Gorilla typically fall within a range of £45-£100+, depending on the release tier and any additional packages that may be available. Given the artist’s compelling live reputation and the limited capacity of the venue, it is highly advisable to secure your admission well in advance. Demand is expected to be significant, with early sales likely to be strong. Check availability and pricing through the links on this page.

Frequently Asked Questions: Obongjayar at Gorilla Manchester

Q1: Will Obongjayar be performing songs from his debut album, “Some Nights I Feel Like Walking”? A1: It is highly probable that Obongjayar will feature a selection of tracks from his critically acclaimed debut album, as well as fan favourites from his earlier EPs, to provide a comprehensive overview of his artistry.

Q2: What is the typical running time for Obongjayar’s concerts? A2: While specific timings can vary, Obongjayar’s shows generally run for approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, including any potential support acts.

Q3: Is Gorilla Manchester an accessible venue for attendees with mobility issues? A3: Gorilla is generally accessible, but it’s always best to contact the venue directly in advance to discuss specific requirements and arrangements to ensure a comfortable experience.

Q4: What is the age restriction for attending shows at Gorilla Manchester? A4: Most gigs at Gorilla have a minimum age requirement of 14+, with those under 16 requiring adult supervision. Please check the specific event listing for confirmation.

Q5: What is Obongjayar’s musical style best described as? A5: Obongjayar’s style is a rich fusion of soulful R&B, infused with elements of afrobeat, hip-hop, and touches of UK garage, characterised by his deep baritone vocals and poetic lyricism.

Q6: Are there any support acts announced for Obongjayar’s Manchester date? A6: Support act announcements are usually made closer to the event date. Please refer to official event listings for any updates.

Q7: Can I purchase merchandise at the venue? A7: Typically, artists will have merchandise available for purchase at their concerts, including albums, t-shirts, and other memorabilia.

Q8: What is the best way to get to Gorilla from Manchester city centre? A8: Gorilla is easily accessible via public transport. Walking from Manchester Piccadilly or taking a short tram ride to Deansgate-Castlefield are recommended options.

Q9: Will there be a cloakroom or bag check at Gorilla? A9: Gorilla usually offers a cloakroom facility, but it is advisable to travel light if possible due to limited space.

Q10: How early should I arrive to get a good view of Obongjayar? A10: To secure a prime spot, arriving 30-45 minutes before the advertised start time for Obongjayar’s set is a good general guideline, especially given his anticipated popularity.

Top Tips for Experiencing Obongjayar at Gorilla

To truly maximise your experience of Obongjayar’s performance at Gorilla, consider these tailored tips. Given Gorilla’s intimate setting, the connection between Obongjayar and his audience will be palpable. Position yourself strategically to benefit from the venue’s excellent sightlines, whether you prefer to be close to the stage to feel the raw energy or slightly further back to appreciate the full sonic picture. Obongjayar’s live shows are known for their dynamic range, so be prepared for moments of quiet reflection as well as energetic, danceable grooves. Embrace the atmosphere; engage with the music, and allow yourself to be drawn into the storytelling of his lyrics. If you’re a fan of his more rhythmically driven tracks, don’t be afraid to move – the Gorilla floor is the perfect place to let loose. Remember that this is an opportunity to witness an artist at the height of his powers in a setting that truly allows his talent to shine.

Secure Your Spot for a Night of Unforgettable R&B

The opportunity to witness Obongjayar’s captivating artistry live at Gorilla Manchester on Monday, 24 November 2025, is a must for any R&B enthusiast. With his distinctive blend of soulful vocals, compelling lyricism, and electrifying stage presence, this promises to be a truly memorable evening. Given the intimate nature of the venue and the artist’s escalating popularity, demand for tickets is expected to be exceptionally high, and availability will be limited. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting musical event. Check availability through our trusted partners. View full event details and secure your tickets today.