The 502s

The 502s Live at Limelight Belfast – Friday, 30 January 2026

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the energetic and infectious sounds of The 502s take centre stage at Belfast’s iconic Limelight venue on Friday, 30 January 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s a vibrant celebration of folk-infused Americana, delivered with a passion and authenticity that has captivated audiences worldwide. The 502s are renowned for their ability to transform any space into a joyous, communal experience, and their Limelight debut promises to be an electrifying night of singalongs, toe-tapping rhythms, and pure musical exhilaration. Get ready to be swept away by their unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and rousing instrumental prowess – a perfect antidote to the winter chill, promising warmth and vibrant energy to kickstart your year.

About The 502s

Hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, The 502s have rapidly carved out a distinct niche in the contemporary music scene, blending bluegrass roots with indie-folk sensibilities and a healthy dose of pure, unadulterated joy. The band, comprised of high-school friends who reconnected and dove headfirst into their shared musical passion, has cultivated a sound that is both refreshingly modern and deeply traditional. Their music is characterized by intricate instrumental arrangements, featuring prominent banjo, mandolin, and fiddle, woven together with earnest vocal harmonies.

Since their formation, The 502s have been dedicated to crafting songs that speak to the human experience with honesty and a touch of wry humour. Their live performances have become legendary for their high energy, spontaneous moments, and the palpable connection they forge with their audience. They’ve steadily built a devoted following through relentless touring, performing at festivals like MerleFest and opening for established acts such as Billy Strings and Trampled By Turtles.

Their debut album, “Something to Prove,” released in 2021, garnered critical acclaim for its compelling songwriting and masterful musicianship. Tracks like “She’s Been Gone” showcased their ability to craft poignant ballads, while “Too Much” revealed their knack for upbeat, foot-stomping anthems. Their sophomore release, “Love and Light,” released in 2023, further cemented their reputation, offering a more mature and expansive sound that retained their signature infectious energy. Notable hits such as “My Roots,” with its soaring chorus and driving rhythm, and the crowd-favourite “All That I Need,” a testament to their lyrical depth and melodic grace, continue to resonate with fans and highlight the band’s impressive growth. The 502s are more than just musicians; they are storytellers, community builders, and purveyors of good times, all set to a soundtrack that is as uplifting as it is intricately crafted.

Venue Information

Limelight is one of Belfast’s premier live music venues, boasting a reputation for hosting an eclectic range of artists across various genres. With its intimate atmosphere and excellent sound system, it provides the perfect setting for an engaging and memorable live music experience. Limelight has been a cornerstone of the Belfast music scene for years, consistently delivering top-tier performances to enthusiastic crowds. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening that pulsates with the vibrant energy and infectious spirit that The 502s are celebrated for. Their Limelight performance on Friday, 30 January 2026, promises a dynamic and engaging setlist that draws from their critically acclaimed albums, “Something to Prove” and “Love and Light,” alongside cherished fan favourites. Expect to hear crowd-pleasing anthems like the driving and anthemic “My Roots,” where the intricate banjo work takes centre stage, and the beautifully poignant “She’s Been Gone,” a masterclass in heartfelt storytelling accompanied by delicate mandolin melodies. You’ll also likely be treated to the infectious rhythm of “Too Much,” a track that epitomises their ability to get an entire room moving.

The 502s’ performance style is a carefully balanced blend of masterful musicianship and genuine, uninhibited joy. Their sets are known for their organic flow, often featuring spontaneous instrumental breaks where each musician gets a chance to shine. The interplay between the banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and driving acoustic guitar creates a rich tapestry of sound, while their tight vocal harmonies add a layer of soul and depth to every song. They don’t just play music; they embody it, their passion evident in every strum, pluck, and vocal inflection.

Beyond the hit songs, expect a set that’s infused with improvisation and a deep connection to their audience. They are masters of creating a communal atmosphere, encouraging singalongs and engaging with the crowd in a way that makes everyone feel part of the performance. The duration of the set will typically run for around 90 minutes to two hours, including a brief intermission, ensuring a substantial and satisfying musical journey. This is an opportunity to witness a band at the peak of their powers, delivering a performance that is both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant, leaving you with a feeling of warmth, exhilaration, and a deep appreciation for authentic folk-inspired music.

FAQs

Q1: What is The 502s’ typical musical style? The 502s are known for their folk-infused Americana sound, which skillfully blends bluegrass instrumentation, particularly banjo, mandolin, and fiddle, with heartfelt indie-folk songwriting and energetic vocal harmonies. Their music is both rooted in tradition and refreshingly contemporary.

Q2: Can I expect to hear their popular songs like “My Roots” and “She’s Been Gone” at the show? Absolutely! “My Roots” and “She’s Been Gone” are significant tracks in The 502s’ repertoire and are consistent crowd-pleasers. You can almost certainly expect these beloved songs, along with other highlights from their albums “Something to Prove” and “Love and Light,” to be featured in their setlist.

Q3: Are The 502s known for audience interaction during their performances? Yes, The 502s are highly regarded for their engaging and interactive performance style. They excel at creating a communal atmosphere, often encouraging singalongs and making a genuine connection with their audience, making you feel like you’re part of the music itself.

Q4: How long does a typical The 502s concert usually last? A typical concert from The 502s usually lasts for approximately 90 minutes to two hours. This duration typically includes a short interval, providing a full and satisfying evening of live music.

Q5: Is there anything special or unique about The 502s’ live shows that sets them apart? What sets The 502s apart is their exceptional musicianship delivered with an infectious and genuine sense of joy. Their live shows are characterized by spontaneous instrumental moments, tight vocal harmonies, and an undeniable energy that transforms the venue into a warm and vibrant gathering. They have a knack for making every attendee feel included and uplifted.

Q6: Will The 502s be performing any new material in Belfast? While it’s not guaranteed, bands often use live performances to test out new material or hint at upcoming projects. Given their active touring schedule and consistent output, there’s always a possibility you might catch a glimpse of something new from The 502s during their Belfast show.