Happy Mondays

Happy Mondays Live at Rock City, Nottingham

Sunday, 15 March 2026

Get ready to shake your tree, Nottingham! The legendary Happy Mondays are bringing their unique brand of infectious indie-dance anthems to the iconic Rock City for a night that promises to be a vibrant explosion of pure, unadulterated musical joy. This isn’t just a gig; it’s a full-blown celebration of a band that has consistently defied expectations and delivered a sound that remains as fresh and relevant today as it was decades ago. Prepare for a pilgrimage to one of the UK’s most beloved music venues to witness a band whose influence stretches far and wide, a band that embodies the spirit of joyful rebellion and dancefloor catharsis.

About the Event

This is a chance to immerse yourself in the unparalleled energy of Happy Mondays, a band that has soundtracked countless nights and shaped the sound of British music for generations. On Sunday, 15 March 2026, Rock City will transform into a vibrant hub of indie-dance euphoria as Shaun Ryder and his cohort of sonic alchemists take to the stage. Expect a setlist that reads like a greatest hits compilation, interspersed with fan favourites and perhaps even a few surprises that will have you singing along at the top of your lungs. This event is more than just a concert; it’s an experience, a communal outpouring of appreciation for a band that has consistently delivered innovative and exhilarating music. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the raw, untamed spirit of Happy Mondays in the intimate and legendary setting of Rock City, a venue synonymous with seminal live music moments.

About Happy Mondays

Emerging from the gritty Mancunian scene of the 1980s, Happy Mondays quickly established themselves as a force of nature, a dazzling fusion of baggy beats, psychedelic rock, and unapologetic swagger. Fronted by the inimitable Shaun Ryder, whose lyrical dexterity and charismatic stage presence are legendary, the band carved a unique niche with their genre-bending sound. Early releases like Squirrel and G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out Calamity) and Bummed showcased their raw, experimental edge, but it was Pills ‘n’ Thrills and Bellyaches (1990) that propelled them into the mainstream stratosphere. This seminal album, produced by Paul Oakenfold and Steve Osborne, spawned anthems like “Step On,” “Loose Fit,” and “Hallelujah (MacColl),” cementing their status as kings of the Madchester scene.

Their music is characterised by a potent cocktail of infectious basslines, hypnotic rhythms, and Ryder’s distinctive, often surreal, lyrical narratives. They masterfully blended elements of funk, hip-hop, and dance music with a rock and roll attitude, creating a sound that was both groundbreaking and instantly danceable. Beyond the charts, Happy Mondays became synonymous with a hedonistic, free-spirited lifestyle, their live performances known for their anarchic energy and euphoric atmosphere. Despite periods of hiatus and line-up changes, the enduring appeal of Shaun Ryder, Bez (the maracas-wielding dancer and iconic persona), and the rest of the band has ensured their continued relevance. Their influence can be heard in countless bands that followed, and their live shows remain a testament to their enduring power to ignite a crowd and create an unforgettable party atmosphere.

Venue Information

Rock City stands as a monumental pillar in Nottingham’s rich musical landscape, a venue that has played host to countless legendary artists across decades of live music. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and state-of-the-art sound system, it offers an intimate yet powerful setting for experiencing your favourite bands. Whether you’re a seasoned gig-goer or attending your first show, Rock City provides an unparalleled live music experience. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an electrifying journey through the Happy Mondays’ illustrious back catalogue. Their setlists are crafted to deliver maximum impact, a carefully curated selection designed to send shockwaves of pure joy through the Rock City audience. You can reliably expect to hear the undeniable anthems that have defined their career. Sing your heart out to the irresistible groove of “Step On,” get lost in the pulsating energy of “Loose Fit,” and revel in the uplifting chorus of “Hallelujah (MacColl).” Fan favourites such as “Kinky Afro” and “Don’t Come Around Here No More” are also staples, guaranteed to have the dancefloor heaving.

Shaun Ryder remains the enigmatic ringmaster, his vocal delivery as potent and captivating as ever. Supported by the tight, groove-laden musicianship of Mark Day (guitar), Paul Ryder (bass – sadly departed, but his spirit lives on through the music), Gary Whelan (drums), and Rowetta (vocals), the band delivers a performance that is both technically brilliant and brimming with raw, untamed energy. Bez, of course, will be in his element, his iconic maraca shaking and unique brand of chaotic dancing adding an essential layer of visual spectacle and anarchic spirit to the proceedings. The Happy Mondays live show is not a passive experience; it’s an invitation to participate, to lose yourself in the music, and to embrace the collective euphoria. Expect a vibrant, colourful, and thoroughly engaging performance that transcends mere musicality, a true testament to their enduring legacy as purveyors of pure party music. The duration of the set will typically be around 90-100 minutes, giving ample time to soak in the full Happy Mondays experience.

FAQs

Q1: Will Shaun Ryder and Bez be performing with the Happy Mondays? Absolutely! Shaun Ryder, the inimitable frontman, and the iconic dancer Bez are central to the Happy Mondays experience and will be performing with the band at Rock City, bringing their signature charisma and energy to the stage.

Q2: What is the likely setlist for a Happy Mondays gig in 2026? While setlists can vary, you can expect a strong showing of their most beloved hits from albums like Pills ‘n’ Thrills and Bellyaches and Bummed. Anthems such as “Step On,” “Loose Fit,” “Hallelujah (MacColl),” “Kinky Afro,” and “Freaky Dudes” are almost certainly on the cards, alongside other fan favourites that showcase their unique indie-dance sound.

Q3: Can I expect any new material from Happy Mondays? While Happy Mondays are renowned for their classic hits, they have been known to occasionally debut new material or tease upcoming projects during their live shows. Keep an open mind for any surprises that might emerge on the night!

Q4: How would you describe the typical atmosphere at a Happy Mondays concert? Happy Mondays gigs are legendary for their vibrant, inclusive, and incredibly energetic atmosphere. Expect a sea of happy faces, enthusiastic dancing, and a palpable sense of communal joy. It’s a celebration of music and a collective release, epitomising the spirit of the Madchester era.

Q5: Are Happy Mondays known for any particular stage antics or surprises? Beyond Shaun Ryder’s captivating stage presence and Bez’s legendary dancing, Happy Mondays are known for their spontaneous and often anarchic performances. While no two gigs are exactly the same, their live shows are always an unpredictable and exhilarating spectacle, aiming to create a truly memorable party.