Fatboy Slim

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Fatboy Slim Live at Barrowland, Glasgow

Get ready to dance your socks off, Glasgow! Prepare for an unforgettable night as the legendary Fatboy Slim descends upon the iconic Barrowland Ballroom on Saturday, 28 February 2026. This isn’t just a gig; it’s a full-blown celebration of electronic music history, a chance to relive the halcyon days of rave and witness one of the genre’s most enduring and electrifying performers in his element. Known for his boundary-pushing beats, infectious energy, and a knack for crafting anthems that soundtracked a generation, Fatboy Slim promises a night of pure, unadulterated joy and unmissable sonic euphoria. Expect the Barrowland to be reverberating with the unmistakable sounds of a true dance music pioneer.

About Fatboy Slim

Norman Quentin Cook, better known to the world as Fatboy Slim, is a name synonymous with the golden era of Big Beat and a sustained career that has seen him transcend genres and eras. Emerging from the vibrant club scene of Brighton in the late 1980s, Cook initially found fame as the bassist for the indie band The Housemartins. However, it was his move into electronic music, under a string of increasingly successful monikers including Pizzaman and then the iconic Fatboy Slim, that truly cemented his legendary status.

His debut album as Fatboy Slim, Better Living Through Chemistry (1996), was a critical and commercial success, but it was his follow-up, You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby (1998), that propelled him into global superstardom. Featuring groundbreaking singles like “The Rockafeller Skank,” “Praise You,” and “Right Here, Right Now,” the album was a masterclass in infectious grooves, sample-heavy production, and undeniable party energy. These tracks weren’t just songs; they became cultural touchstones, their distinctive sounds and memorable music videos ingrained in the collective consciousness of millions.

Fatboy Slim’s unique ability lies in his chameleon-like mastery of the dancefloor. He seamlessly blends elements of hip-hop, funk, disco, and house, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and perpetually fresh. His live shows are renowned for their high-octane performance style, often featuring him at the decks with a beaming smile, a genuine love for the music radiating from him. He’s not just playing tracks; he’s conducting an orchestra of energy, building euphoric peaks and valleys that keep the audience captivated from start to finish. Throughout his career, he has continued to release acclaimed music, including Halfway Between the Gutter and the Stars (2000) and Palookaville (2004), and remains a formidable presence on festival lineups and club nights worldwide. He is a true architect of the party, a sonic alchemist who can transform any space into a pulsating temple of dance.

Venue Information

The Barrowland Ballroom is more than just a venue; it’s a Glasgow institution steeped in musical history. Nestled in the East End of the city, its distinctive illuminated sign has been a beacon for music lovers for decades. Famous for its distinctive sprung dancefloor and unparalleled acoustics, the Barrowland has hosted an extraordinary lineage of artists, from rock gods to electronic pioneers, each leaving their mark on its legendary walls. The intimate yet grand setting of the ballroom creates a unique atmosphere, one that pulses with the energy of countless legendary performances past and present. It’s a venue where every show feels special, amplified by the warmth and passion of the Glasgow crowd.

For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sonic journey that spans the decades, curated by a master craftsman of the dancefloor. Fatboy Slim’s sets are legendary for their eclectic nature, a thrilling ride through his own extensive back catalogue and beyond. Expect to be instantly transported back to the late 90s and early 2000s with explosive renditions of his most iconic hits. Get ready to lose yourself to the infectious energy of “The Rockafeller Skank,” sing your heart out to the uplifting “Praise You,” and feel the pulse quicken with the driving beats of “Right Here, Right Now.” Beyond these undisputed anthems, Fatboy Slim is renowned for weaving in a rich tapestry of samples, classic funk breaks, disco infernos, and unexpected genre shifts, all seamlessly blended with his signature Big Beat sound.

His performance style is as captivating as his music. Norman Cook is a natural showman, rarely seen without a grin as he works the decks. He doesn’t just play music; he embodies it. Expect him to be fully engaged, interacting with the crowd and feeding off their energy. His sets are not just about the beats per minute; they are about the build-up, the tension, the release, and the sheer collective euphoria of thousands of people moving as one. He has a remarkable talent for reading the room, taking the audience on a journey that is both predictable in its joy and surprising in its sonic exploration. While the exact setlist is always a delightful mystery, rest assured that the evening will be punctuated by a barrage of universally recognised bangers designed to ignite the dancefloor. The show is typically a high-energy affair, with Fatboy Slim often playing for around 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring a full and satisfying immersion into his world of unparalleled dance music. It’s an experience that promises to leave you breathless, exhilarated, and with a renewed appreciation for the power of a truly great DJ.

FAQs

Q1: Will Fatboy Slim play his biggest hits like “Praise You” and “The Rockafeller Skank”? A1: Absolutely! Fatboy Slim is renowned for delivering his most beloved and iconic tracks during his live sets. You can almost guarantee that anthems like “Praise You,” “The Rockafeller Skank,” “Right Here, Right Now,” and “Wonderful Night” will feature prominently, providing those euphoric singalong moments that his fans adore.

Q2: Can I expect Fatboy Slim to incorporate new music into his set? A2: While his back catalogue is a guaranteed highlight, Fatboy Slim is an artist who continues to evolve. He often mixes in newer productions and edits, as well as tracks that inspire him, keeping his sets fresh and exciting. This blend of classics and contemporary influences is part of what makes his performances so dynamic.

Q3: What is Fatboy Slim’s typical performance style at a live show? A3: Norman Cook, as Fatboy Slim, is known for his incredibly energetic and engaging DJ sets. He’s often seen smiling, interacting with the crowd, and fully immersed in the music. His sets are characterized by their seamless mixing, build-ups, and drops, creating a truly euphoric atmosphere. He’s not just playing records; he’s conducting a masterclass in crowd-pleasing dance music.

Q4: How long does a typical Fatboy Slim set last? A4: Fatboy Slim generally plays for a substantial period, usually around 90 minutes to two hours. This allows ample time for him to take the audience on a comprehensive musical journey, showcasing his extensive repertoire and ensuring everyone gets their fill of high-energy dance music.

Q5: Is Fatboy Slim’s music suitable for all ages? A5: While Fatboy Slim’s music is often associated with vibrant and energetic clubbing scenes, the music itself is generally considered accessible and fun for a wide audience. However, as with many live music events, the atmosphere and volume can be intense. Attendees are advised to check the specific age restrictions for the Barrowland venue, but the music itself is broadly appealing for those who enjoy electronic dance music.

Q6: How does Fatboy Slim create his signature sound? A6: Fatboy Slim’s signature sound, often referred to as Big Beat, is a masterful fusion of hip-hop breaks, funk samples, disco loops, and electronic beats. He’s a pioneer in his use of sampling and studio production to create catchy, infectious, and high-energy tracks that are instantly recognizable and designed to get people moving. His skill lies in his ability to weave together diverse sonic elements into a cohesive and exhilarating whole.