Happy Mondays

Happy Mondays Live at the Legendary Barrowland, Glasgow – Friday, 17th April 2026

Get ready to shake your tree and lose yourself in the kaleidoscopic world of Happy Mondays as they descend upon the iconic Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow on Friday, 17th April 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a pilgrimage for anyone who’s ever felt the irresistible urge to dance like nobody’s watching, fuelled by a potent cocktail of infectious rhythms, psychedelic swagger, and pure, unadulterated joy. For one unforgettable night, the hallowed halls of the Barrowland will vibrate with the electrifying energy that only Shaun Ryder and his band of merry mischief-makers can conjure. Prepare for a sonic explosion that will transport you back to the glory days of Madchester and firmly plant you in the vibrant present of one of Britain’s most enduringly vital live acts.

About Happy Mondays

Emerging from the grimy, vibrant scene of Salford in the early 1980s, Happy Mondays quickly carved out a unique niche in the British music landscape, becoming synonymous with the Madchester movement. Fronted by the inimitable Shaun Ryder, a shamanic figure whose lyrical prowess oscillates between street poetry and existential musings, and driven by the intoxicating groove of Bez’s maracas and dance floor antics, the band defined an era. Their early releases laid the groundwork, but it was their collaborations with producer Martin “Youth” Davis and later, the legendary Paul Oakenfold and Steve Osborne, that cemented their status.

Their breakthrough album, Bummed (1988), showcased a raw, often chaotic energy, but it was Pills ‘n’ ‘Thrills and Bellyaches (1990) that propelled them to superstardom. This masterpiece of a record, infused with acid house sensibilities and a pop sensibility that belied their often-outsider image, gifted the world anthems like “Step On,” “Kinky Afro,” and “Hallelujah.” These tracks became the soundtrack to a generation, blending funk, rock, and dance music into a singular, exhilarating sound. Following this success, they released Yes Please! (1992), before internal tensions led to a hiatus. The band reformed in the early 2000s, proving their enduring appeal with subsequent albums and a relentless touring schedule that showcases their undiminished live power. Their legacy is etched in the annals of British music history, a testament to their fearless approach to sound and a joyous celebration of life’s glorious messiness. Notable hits that have resonated across decades include the aforementioned “Step On” and “Kinky Afro,” alongside the hypnotic “Loose Fit” and the anthemic “Judge Jupiter.”

Venue Information

The Barrowland Ballroom is more than just a venue; it’s a Glasgow institution, a place steeped in musical history and legendary performances. From its origins as a dance hall to its current status as one of the UK’s most revered live music spaces, the distinctive star-cloth ceiling and sprung dancefloor have witnessed countless electrifying nights. Its intimate yet expansive atmosphere creates a unique connection between artist and audience, making every gig feel like a truly special occasion. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Happy Mondays take the stage at the Barrowland, you’re not just attending a concert; you’re stepping into a vibrant, pulsating carnival. Expect an electrifying setlist that masterfully weaves together their most iconic hits with deeper cuts that showcase their enduring musicality. From the moment Shaun Ryder struts onto the stage, exuding his signature blend of swagger and enigmatic charm, the atmosphere will ignite. Alongside him, Bez, the undisputed king of the dance floor, will be unleashing his primal, infectious energy, a whirlwind of maracas and uninhibited movement that’s as much a part of the Happy Mondays experience as the music itself.

The band’s performance style is a joyous riot. They deliver their classic tracks with the same raw, unadulterated power that defined them, but with the seasoned professionalism of artists who know how to command a room. Expect the infectious grooves of “Step On” to have the entire Barrowland bouncing, the psychedelic swirl of “Kinky Afro” to transport you to another dimension, and the anthemic uplift of “Hallelujah” to unite the crowd in a euphoric singalong. The musicianship is tight, driven by a rhythm section that lays down a foundation of irresistible funk and groove, allowing Ryder’s distinctive vocals to soar and swirl above. Bez’s on-stage presence is legendary, a visual and energetic spectacle that perfectly embodies the band’s anarchic spirit. While the exact setlist will be a glorious surprise, you can be assured of a high-energy performance that will last approximately 90 minutes, leaving you breathless, exhilarated, and wanting more. This is not a night for passive observation; it’s a night to immerse yourself, to dance, to sing, and to revel in the pure, unadulterated joy of live music.

FAQs

Q1: Will Bez be performing with Happy Mondays at the Barrowland on April 17th, 2026? Absolutely! Bez is an integral and iconic part of the Happy Mondays live experience. His unique on-stage presence, complete with his trademark maracas and uninhibited dancing, is a cornerstone of their performances. You can be sure he’ll be there to bring his legendary energy to the Barrowland stage.

Q2: What is Shaun Ryder’s current form like? Is he still as energetic on stage? Shaun Ryder remains a captivating frontman, known for his magnetic stage presence. While he’s a seasoned performer, his energy is channeled into his distinctive delivery and charismatic interactions with the crowd. He delivers the vocals with the same passion and lyrical dexterity that fans have come to expect, and his command of the stage is as potent as ever.

Q3: Can I expect to hear all the big hits like “Step On” and “Kinky Afro”? Yes, you can certainly expect a setlist packed with the Happy Mondays’ most beloved anthems. Tracks like “Step On,” “Kinky Afro,” “Hallelujah,” and “Loose Fit” are staples of their live shows and are guaranteed to get the Barrowland rocking. The band understands the importance of their classic material to their fans.

Q4: What is the typical age range of attendees at a Happy Mondays gig? Happy Mondays have a remarkably broad fanbase, drawing in people who discovered them during the Madchester era and new generations who appreciate their enduring sound and energy. You’ll find a mix of long-time fans reminiscing and new devotees discovering the magic, so expect a diverse crowd united by a love for the music.

Q5: Are Happy Mondays still experimenting with their sound, or is it more of a greatest hits show? While the core of a Happy Mondays live show will always celebrate their classic hits that defined an era, the band also brings a contemporary edge to their performances. They are a living, breathing musical entity, and their live sets often incorporate a renewed energy and a fresh perspective on their material, ensuring it feels vibrant and relevant, not just a museum piece. They continue to showcase their prowess as a tight, dynamic band.