Busted vs McFly

Busted vs McFly Live at The O2 Arena, London!

Prepare for a spectacular collision of pop-punk royalty as Busted and McFly, two of the UK’s most beloved bands, go head-to-head in an unforgettable live show at The O2 Arena, London, on Saturday, 1 November 2025. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a nostalgic explosion of anthemic choruses, infectious energy, and a friendly rivalry that promises to electrify the iconic London venue. Get ready to sing your heart out to a generation of hits that have soundtracked countless memories, all under one roof. This is the ultimate celebration of British pop music, a night where two of the biggest bands of the 2000s bring their A-game for a spectacle you won’t want to miss.

---

About Busted vs McFly

Busted, the genre-bending trio who burst onto the scene with a potent blend of pop, rock, and punk attitude, have carved out a unique space in British music history. Comprising Charlie Simpson, James Bourne, and Matt Willis, their arrival in the early 2000s was a breath of fresh air, injecting a dose of raw energy and relatable lyrics into the mainstream. Their debut album, Busted, released in 2002, was an instant phenomenon, spawning massive hits like the rebellious “Year 3000”, the frenetic “What I Go to School For”, and the emotionally charged “Sleeping with the Light On”. Their infectious sound and charismatic stage presence quickly cemented them as a stadium-filling act, and their follow-up, A Present for Everyone, continued their reign with tracks like “Air Hostess” and “Crashed and Burned”. After a hiatus, Busted returned, proving their enduring appeal with new music and electrifying live performances that hark back to their glory days while embracing their evolved sound.

Sharing the stage with them are McFly, the four-piece phenomenon renowned for their sunshine-infused pop-rock anthems and undeniable charm. Formed in 2003, Tom Fletcher, Danny Jones, Dougie Poynter, and Harry Judd quickly became household names with their debut single “5 Colours in Her Hair”, a quintessential slice of feel-good pop that dominated the charts. They followed this success with a string of chart-topping hits, including the soaring “Obviously”, the heartfelt “All About You”, and the incredibly catchy “I’ll Be Your Man”. Their albums, such as Room on the 3rd Floor and Motion to the Ocean, showcased their ability to craft meticulously produced pop songs that resonated with a massive audience. McFly’s live shows are legendary for their energy, singalong potential, and the genuine camaraderie between the band members, creating an atmosphere that is both exhilarating and incredibly inclusive. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their consistent songwriting quality and their ability to connect with fans across generations.

---

Venue Information

The O2 Arena, located in Greenwich, London, is one of the world’s most iconic and busiest live entertainment venues. Renowned for its distinctive dome structure, it has hosted an unparalleled array of global superstars and major sporting events since opening its doors. With a capacity of up to 20,000, it offers a truly immersive experience, boasting state-of-the-art acoustics and excellent sightlines from every angle. Its easily accessible location, with excellent transport links via the Jubilee Line and DLR, makes it a prime destination for music lovers from across the UK and beyond. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

---

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening that will transport you back to the golden age of 2000s pop-rock, with a healthy dose of modern energy. Busted vs McFly promises a dynamic and electrifying performance, designed to leave you buzzing.

Setlist Highlights: Expect a career-spanning journey through the anthems that defined a generation. Busted will undoubtedly unleash their high-octane hits like “Year 3000,” “What I Go to School For,” and “Sleeping with the Light On,” guaranteed to have the entire arena on their feet. Prepare for the infectious energy of “Air Hostess” and the raw emotion of their balladry.

McFly will counter with their signature blend of feel-good pop and infectious rock. Sing your lungs out to timeless classics such as “5 Colours in Her Hair,” “Obviously,” “All About You,” and “I’ll Be Your Man.” Their performance will be a masterclass in crowd interaction, with singalong moments designed for every single fan in the building. You can also anticipate potential performances of newer material, showcasing their continued evolution as artists.

Performance Style: The rivalry aspect of “Busted vs McFly” is more about a celebration of shared success and friendly competition than genuine animosity. Expect a show filled with high energy, dazzling stage production, and a palpable sense of fun. Both bands are renowned for their charisma and ability to connect with their audience. Expect spontaneous moments, playful banter between the bands, and a shared commitment to delivering an unforgettable live experience. Busted’s performances often carry a slightly more raw, punk-infused edge, while McFly deliver polished, stadium-ready pop-rock with an infectious enthusiasm. The magic lies in seeing these distinct but complementary styles collide.

Duration: While precise timings are subject to change, a concert of this magnitude featuring two headline acts typically runs for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including any intermissions. This will allow ample time for both bands to showcase their extensive catalogues and for the unique “Busted vs McFly” dynamic to unfold.

---

FAQs

Q1: Will Busted and McFly be performing together, or will they have separate sets?

This event is billed as “Busted vs McFly,” suggesting a unique format where the bands will likely engage in a playful rivalry throughout the evening. While there might be individual moments where each band showcases their own hits, expect collaborative performances, potential joint numbers, and a shared stage experience designed to highlight their individual strengths and their shared history in the pop-rock scene. It’s designed to be a celebration, not a direct competition.

Q2: Can I expect to hear all of Busted’s classic hits and McFly’s chart-toppers?

Absolutely! Both bands are renowned for their extensive back catalogues of well-loved hits. You can be confident that the setlists will be packed with the songs that made them famous, including anthems like “Year 3000,” “What I Go to School For” from Busted, and “5 Colours in Her Hair,” “Obviously” from McFly. It’s highly probable they’ll delve into their biggest chart successes and fan favourites.

Q3: Is this event suitable for all ages?

The O2 Arena generally accommodates all ages for concerts. However, specific policies regarding unaccompanied minors or age restrictions for certain areas may apply. It’s always advisable to check The O2 Arena’s official website for their detailed visitor guidelines and any specific age recommendations for this particular event. The music itself is broadly appealing.

Q4: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at a Busted vs McFly show?

Expect an incredibly energetic and nostalgic atmosphere. Both bands are known for their vibrant live shows and strong connection with their fans. Given the “vs” element, there will likely be an added layer of friendly competition and banter, creating a fun and exciting environment. It’s a night for singing along at the top of your lungs, dancing, and reliving some fantastic musical memories.

Q5: Will there be any merchandise available for Busted and McFly at the venue?

Yes, it is standard practice for major concerts like this to have official merchandise stalls selling a range of items for both Busted and McFly. You can typically expect to find band t-shirts, hoodies, posters, and other memorabilia available for purchase on the night. It’s always a good idea to arrive early if you have specific merchandise items in mind, as popular items can sell out quickly.