Richard Ashcroft

Richard Ashcroft Live at Utilita Arena Cardiff

Get ready to experience a legend! Richard Ashcroft, the iconic frontman of The Verve and a highly celebrated solo artist, is set to grace the stage at Utilita Arena Cardiff on Tuesday, 24 March 2026. This promises to be a night of anthemic choruses, soul-stirring vocals, and unforgettable musical moments as one of Britain’s most influential songwriters delivers his catalogue of timeless hits.

About the Event

This is more than just a concert; it’s a pilgrimage for fans of British rock royalty. Richard Ashcroft’s ability to craft songs that resonate deeply, speaking to the universal themes of hope, despair, and the search for meaning, has cemented his place in music history. Performing in the vibrant city of Cardiff, at the renowned Utilita Arena, fans can anticipate an evening that transcends a typical gig. Expect a powerful, emotionally charged performance where every note and lyric is delivered with the raw authenticity that has defined Ashcroft’s career. Whether you’re a long-time devotee or discovering his music for the first time, this event offers a chance to witness a true artist at the height of his powers, sharing his poetic vision and electrifying stage presence with a captivated audience. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through a career defined by groundbreaking music and enduring impact.

About Richard Ashcroft

Richard Ashcroft is a name synonymous with British music’s golden age and beyond. Emerging as the charismatic and poetic frontman of The Verve in the late 1980s, Ashcroft quickly established himself as a singular voice. The band achieved monumental success with their 1997 album Urban Hymns, a masterpiece that propelled them to global stardom. This record, imbued with Ashcroft’s introspective lyricism and a blend of soaring psychedelia and anthemic rock, spawned timeless hits such as “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” a track that has transcended generations, becoming an anthem for aspirational yearning and existential reflection. Other defining singles from this era include the poignant “The Drugs Don’t Work,” a raw and honest exploration of loss, and the uplifting “Lucky Man,” a testament to resilience and finding happiness.

Following The Verve’s disbandment, Ashcroft embarked on a highly successful solo career, further showcasing his songwriting prowess and distinctive vocal delivery. His debut solo album, Alone with Everybody (2000), delivered the powerful hit “A Song for the Lovers,” demonstrating his continued ability to craft emotionally resonant music. Subsequent solo releases like Human Conditions (2002) and Keys to the Kingdom (2010) have seen him explore diverse musical landscapes while retaining his signature lyrical depth and vocal intensity. Ashcroft’s work is characterised by a profound sense of artistry, a commitment to authentic expression, and an unwavering ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. His performances are renowned for their raw energy, spiritual intensity, and the palpable connection he forges with every listener. He is an artist who continues to inspire, provoke, and captivate, a true icon of British musical heritage.

Venue Information

Utilita Arena Cardiff is a premier entertainment venue situated in the heart of Cardiff, Wales. Known for hosting a diverse range of world-class concerts, sporting events, and family shows, the arena boasts a state-of-the-art sound system and impressive lighting capabilities, ensuring an immersive experience for every attendee. Its central location makes it easily accessible via public transport, with Cardiff Central Station just a short walk away. Ample parking facilities are also available nearby. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening of pure sonic and emotional immersion. Richard Ashcroft is renowned for his electrifying stage presence and his commitment to delivering a performance that is both cathartic and uplifting. Audiences can anticipate a setlist that masterfully weaves together the most cherished anthems from his illustrious career. Expect to hear the stadium-filling power of “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” the heart-wrenching beauty of “The Drugs Don’t Work,” and the enduring optimism of “Lucky Man.” His solo material is equally well-represented, with tracks like “A Song for the Lovers” and other fan favourites likely to feature, showcasing his continued evolution as an artist.

Ashcroft’s performance style is characterised by an almost shamanic intensity. He possesses a unique ability to command the stage, his raw, impassioned vocals conveying a profound sense of honesty and vulnerability. Expect him to connect with the audience on a primal level, drawing them into the collective experience of his music. He is not an artist who relies on elaborate stage pyrotechnics; instead, his power comes from the sheer force of his voice, the lyrical weight of his songs, and the palpable energy he exudes. The show is expected to run for approximately two hours, with a short interval, allowing ample time for him to explore both his iconic catalogue and his more recent works. This is a chance to witness an artist who embodies the spirit of British rock, delivering a performance that is both timeless and utterly contemporary.

FAQs

Q1: What is Richard Ashcroft’s typical setlist like for his solo shows? Richard Ashcroft’s solo shows often feature a balanced blend of his most celebrated solo material alongside iconic hits from his time with The Verve. Fans can generally expect to hear anthems such as “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” “The Drugs Don’t Work,” and “Lucky Man,” interspersed with powerful solo tracks like “A Song for the Lovers” and others from his extensive solo discography. He tends to select songs that resonate deeply with audiences, focusing on powerful lyrical content and soaring melodies.

Q2: Is Richard Ashcroft known for audience interaction during his performances? While Richard Ashcroft is known for his commanding stage presence and intense connection with his music, his audience interaction is typically more about shared emotional experience than direct banter. He often lets the music speak for itself, allowing the anthems to create a communal atmosphere. However, he is known for his passionate delivery and sometimes offers heartfelt addresses to the crowd, particularly when performing more poignant songs.

Q3: Will there be an opening act for Richard Ashcroft at Utilita Arena Cardiff? Information regarding any supporting acts for Richard Ashcroft’s performance at Utilita Arena Cardiff is typically announced closer to the event date. Keep an eye on official ticketing websites and the venue’s social media channels for the latest updates on supporting artists.

Q4: How long does a typical Richard Ashcroft concert last? A standard Richard Ashcroft concert usually lasts for around two hours, often including a brief interval. This allows him ample time to perform a substantial setlist that covers a wide range of his well-loved material, ensuring a full and satisfying experience for attendees.

Q5: Is it likely that Richard Ashcroft will perform any newer material in addition to his classic hits? Given his ongoing career and commitment to creating new music, it is highly probable that Richard Ashcroft will include tracks from his more recent solo albums in his setlist. While the classics are always a cornerstone of his live shows, he often showcases his evolving artistry by performing newer songs that stand alongside his established hits.

Q6: What is Richard Ashcroft’s general performance style – is it energetic, mellow, or a mix? Richard Ashcroft’s performance style is best described as a powerful and often intensely emotional experience. While he is capable of delivering introspective and mellow renditions of his more tender songs, his shows are frequently characterised by a raw, energetic, and anthemic delivery, particularly when performing his iconic hits. He channels a significant amount of passion and conviction into his vocal performance, creating a dynamic and captivating show.