Richard Ashcroft

Richard Ashcroft Live at M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool

Get ready for an unforgettable night as one of Britain’s most iconic songwriters, Richard Ashcroft, graces the stage at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool on Thursday, 26 March 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s a pilgrimage for fans to witness a true musical legend deliver his timeless anthems and captivating new material in the heart of a city synonymous with musical innovation. Prepare to be swept away by the raw emotion, poetic lyricism, and electrifying performance that only Richard Ashcroft can deliver.

About the Event

This is a landmark occasion, bringing a titan of British music to one of the UK’s most celebrated arenas. Richard Ashcroft’s live shows are renowned for their spiritual fervour, a communal experience where audiences are united by a shared love for his poignant and powerful songwriting. The M&S Bank Arena, with its impressive acoustics and vibrant atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for Ashcroft to command the stage, igniting the crowd with anthems that have soundtracked generations. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee or new to his unparalleled artistry, this concert promises to be a deeply moving and exhilarating journey through a career defined by honesty, passion, and an unwavering commitment to musical integrity. Expect an evening that resonates long after the final note fades, a testament to the enduring power of Richard Ashcroft’s singular voice.

About Richard Ashcroft

Richard Ashcroft is a name that echoes through the annals of British music history, synonymous with anthemic songwriting, searing social commentary, and an unshakeable artistic vision. Born in Billinge, Wigan, Ashcroft first rose to prominence as the charismatic frontman of The Verve, a band that exploded onto the scene in the early 1990s, pushing the boundaries of alternative rock with their expansive soundscapes and introspective lyrics. Their critically acclaimed albums, particularly Urban Hymns (1997), became cultural touchstones, yielding an avalanche of global hits.

Ashcroft’s solo career, launched in 2000 with the introspective and critically lauded Alone with Everybody, has cemented his reputation as a formidable songwriter in his own right. He possesses a rare ability to distill complex emotions into universally relatable songs, delivered with a vocal delivery that is both vulnerable and commanding. Throughout his extensive discography, Ashcroft has consistently explored themes of hope, disillusionment, love, and the human condition, often with a profound sense of place and purpose. His music is characterised by its melodic richness, often layered with soaring strings, gospel-infused choirs, and his distinctive, soul-baring vocal.

Notable hits from his solo career include the timeless “A Song for the Lovers,” a track that perfectly encapsulates his romantic and yearning lyrical style. “Money to Burn” showcased his ability to craft driving, observational rock, while “Break the Night with Colour” offered a more psychedelic and atmospheric exploration. From his Verve days, anthems such as “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” “The Drugs Don’t Work,” and “Lucky Man” remain indelible parts of the musical landscape, frequently dusted off and celebrated in his live performances, bridging his past with his present and captivating audiences with their enduring relevance. Ashcroft’s live shows are not merely concerts; they are cathartic experiences, where he bares his soul and connects with his audience on a deeply emotional level, making each performance a truly unforgettable event.

Venue Information

The M&S Bank Arena, situated on the iconic Liverpool waterfront, is one of the UK’s premier entertainment venues. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a capacity for thousands, it provides an exceptional setting for major musical performances. With its contemporary design and excellent acoustics, the arena ensures that every seat offers a fantastic view and an immersive sound experience, making it the perfect stage for an artist of Richard Ashcroft’s calibre. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that transcends the ordinary. Richard Ashcroft’s live shows are legendary for their electric atmosphere and his unparalleled ability to connect with the audience. You can expect a setlist that masterfully blends his most beloved solo material with the monumental hits from his time with The Verve. Fan favourites such as “Bittersweet Symphony,” “The Drugs Don’t Work,” and “Lucky Man” are almost guaranteed to feature, sending waves of collective euphoria through the arena. His solo anthems like “A Song for the Lovers” and “Money to Burn” will undoubtedly be performed with the same raw passion and vocal power that have defined his career.

Ashcroft’s performance style is captivating. He embodies a shamanistic presence on stage, often seen pacing, gesturing, and pouring every ounce of emotion into his delivery. His stagecraft is minimal yet impactful, allowing the power of his music and lyrics to take centre stage. Expect moments of quiet intensity, punctuated by explosive bursts of energy as he commands the room. The interplay between Ashcroft and his band is telepathic, creating a dynamic and often improvisational feel that keeps the performance fresh and exciting. The show is expected to last approximately two hours, with a short interval, providing ample opportunity to delve deep into his extensive catalogue and experience the full spectrum of his musical artistry. It’s an evening designed for collective catharsis and celebration, a testament to the enduring power of his songwriting.

FAQs

Q1: Will Richard Ashcroft perform songs from his time with The Verve? A1: Absolutely. Richard Ashcroft is renowned for incorporating his iconic Verve hits, such as “Bittersweet Symphony,” “The Drugs Don’t Work,” and “Lucky Man,” into his live sets. These anthems are a vital part of his musical legacy and are always met with an incredible response from the audience.

Q2: Can I expect to hear newer material alongside the classics? A2: Yes, Richard Ashcroft consistently performs a balanced setlist that showcases his latest work alongside his most celebrated hits. He is an artist who continues to evolve, and his live shows offer a fantastic opportunity to experience his current musical direction.

Q3: What is Richard Ashcroft’s typical stage presence like? A3: Richard Ashcroft is known for his passionate and often intense stage presence. He connects deeply with his music and the audience, delivering his lyrics with raw emotion and commanding attention through his performance. Expect a captivating and soul-baring experience.

Q4: How long is Richard Ashcroft’s typical concert set? A4: A Richard Ashcroft concert typically runs for around two hours, often including a short interval. This allows for a comprehensive exploration of his extensive discography, ensuring a full and satisfying musical journey for fans.

Q5: Is this a standing or seated event? A5: The M&S Bank Arena offers a variety of seating and standing options for concerts. Specific ticket types will determine whether you have a seated or standing place. Please check the ticket details carefully when purchasing.

Q6: Can I bring signs or banners to the concert? A6: Generally, large signs or banners that may obstruct the view of other attendees or pose a safety risk are not permitted. We recommend checking the M&S Bank Arena’s specific venue policies regarding prohibited items for the most accurate information.