Midge Ure

Midge Ure Live at the Barbican Centre, London

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the legendary Midge Ure graces the iconic Barbican Centre in London on Monday, 25 May 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s a journey through decades of musical innovation, heartfelt anthems, and boundary-pushing artistry. Midge Ure, a name synonymous with pioneering synth-pop, enduring rock classics, and impactful activism, will be taking to the stage for a performance that promises to be both intimate and electrifying. Whether you’re a long-time devotee of his prolific career or discovering his masterful work for the first time, this event offers a rare opportunity to witness a true musical icon in the spectacular setting of one of London’s most celebrated cultural institutions. Expect a night that resonates with the soul, ignites the senses, and celebrates the enduring power of song.

About Midge Ure

Midge Ure’s career is a tapestry woven with threads of innovation, prolific output, and unwavering artistic integrity. Born James Ure in Cambuslang, Scotland, he first rose to prominence in the late 1970s with the New Wave band The Rich Kids, showcasing an early talent for catchy melodies and a distinctive vocal style. However, it was his involvement in the genre-defining Ultravox that cemented his status as a true pioneer. Under his leadership, Ultravox released a string of influential albums, including the critically acclaimed Vienna, and delivered a string of unforgettable hits. Their unique blend of atmospheric synthesizers, powerful rock guitars, and theatrical stage presence captivated audiences worldwide.

Ure’s solo career further demonstrated his versatility and songwriting prowess. He achieved massive success with hits like “If I Was”, a melancholic yet uplifting ballad that became a UK number one single. He also co-wrote and performed “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” with Bob Geldof, a charitable single that became a global phenomenon and spurred the creation of Live Aid, an event Ure was instrumental in organising. His solo albums, such as The Gift and Answers to Nothing, continued to explore a rich sonic palette, blending electronic textures with soaring melodies and introspective lyrics. Beyond his chart successes, Ure has consistently pushed creative boundaries, collaborating with a diverse range of artists and experimenting with new sounds. His influence can be heard across genres, from electronic dance music to contemporary pop, making him a truly seminal figure in modern music. This performance at the Barbican is a chance to experience firsthand the enduring magic of an artist who has not only soundtracked generations but also shaped the very landscape of popular music.

Venue Information

The Barbican Centre is one of Europe’s largest and most dynamic arts centres, a magnificent architectural landmark housing a world-class array of performance spaces, galleries, and cinemas. Located in the heart of London, it is a renowned hub for music, theatre, dance, and visual arts, attracting artists and audiences from across the globe. The Barbican’s commitment to presenting diverse and innovative programming makes it the perfect setting for an artist of Midge Ure’s calibre. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Midge Ure’s performance at the Barbican Centre is set to be an immersive and emotionally resonant experience. Attendees can anticipate a carefully curated setlist that spans his illustrious career, drawing from his seminal work with Ultravox and his impactful solo material. Expect to be transported by the soaring synths and dramatic flair of Ultravox classics like “Vienna,” “Dancing with Tears in My Eyes,” and “Hymn.” These anthems, still as potent and evocative today as they were upon their release, will undoubtedly be met with enthusiastic singalongs from the captivated audience.

Beyond the Ultravox era, Ure will undoubtedly delve into his successful solo catalogue. The chart-topping “If I Was” is a near certainty, its poignant lyrics and infectious melody sure to stir memories and create new ones. Other potential solo highlights could include the introspective “Breathe” or the driving rhythm of “U4EA.” The setlist will likely offer a thoughtful balance between his more upbeat, synth-driven tracks and his more reflective, ballad-esque compositions, showcasing the full breadth of his songwriting talent.

Midge Ure’s performance style is characterised by his compelling stage presence and his signature vocal delivery. He possesses an ability to connect directly with his audience, conveying raw emotion and genuine passion through his performance. Whether he’s commanding the stage with the theatricality of his Ultravox days or sharing a more intimate moment during a solo ballad, Ure’s sincerity shines through. The sonic landscape of the performance will be rich and layered, with meticulous attention paid to recreating the intricate textures and powerful arrangements that have defined his music. Expect crisp, modern sound production that honours the integrity of the original recordings while providing a vibrant live experience. The duration of the performance is anticipated to be around 90 minutes to two hours, including any potential encore, allowing ample time for a comprehensive exploration of his musical legacy.

FAQs

Q1: Will Midge Ure be performing songs from his Ultravox era? A1: Absolutely. Midge Ure is renowned for his pivotal role in Ultravox, and a selection of their most beloved hits, such as “Vienna” and “Dancing with Tears in My Eyes,” are expected to be integral to the setlist, much to the delight of fans.

Q2: Can I expect to hear Midge Ure’s solo hits like “If I Was”? A2: Yes, fans can certainly anticipate hearing Midge Ure’s highly successful solo material. His chart-topping single “If I Was” is a strong contender for inclusion, alongside other fan favourites from his solo albums.

Q3: Is Midge Ure known for his live performances? What is his stage presence like? A3: Midge Ure is celebrated for his engaging and passionate stage presence. He has a remarkable ability to connect with his audience, delivering his songs with both heartfelt sincerity and charismatic energy, whether he’s performing with the intensity of Ultravox classics or the intimacy of his solo work.

Q4: Will there be any new material performed at the Barbican? A4: While the focus will undoubtedly be on his extensive and acclaimed back catalogue, Midge Ure often incorporates newer material into his live shows, showcasing his continued artistic evolution. Attendees can keep an open mind for potential surprises.

Q5: Is there an intermission planned for the concert? A5: Typically, concerts of this nature at the Barbican Centre include an intermission. This allows attendees to refresh themselves before the second half of the performance. Specific details regarding an intermission will be confirmed closer to the event date.

Q6: What is Midge Ure’s involvement in charitable causes, and might this be reflected in the performance? A6: Midge Ure has a deep and long-standing commitment to charitable work, most notably co-founding Band Aid and Live Aid. While the Barbican performance is primarily a celebration of his musical career, his passionate advocacy for important causes is an intrinsic part of his public persona and may subtly inform the spirit of the evening.