The List

O2 Academy Leicester

The 02 Academy Leicester is a purpose-built music venue on the campus of the University of Leicester. It was opened in 2010 in the Percy Gee Building, the home of the University's Student Union, as part of a major redevelopment of the building. It has two stages, with capacities of 500 and 250 respectively, and hosts international touring acts as well as local bands. The nearest train station is Leicester, from where a taxi can be taken to the venue.

What's On @ O2 Academy Leicester

Jo Whiley's 90s Anthems

Jo Whiley's 90s Anthems

17 Apr 2026 - 19 Mar 2027

Bringing you all the best tracks from the greatest decade for music, think Blur vs Oasis, Fatboy Slim, Primal Scream, The Verve, The Chemical Brothers, Faithless, The Prodigy and a whole lot more. Undoubtedly the biggest night out you’ll have all year, whether you were living it large in the 90s, wish it was still the 90s, or can’t quite remember the decade… Hey girl, hey boy, Superstar DJ… here we go!
The Smyths

The Smyths

3 Apr 2026 - 23 Jan 2027

Join The Smyths as they celebrate the 40th anniversary of two iconic Smiths albums, The Smiths and Hatful of Hollow, that feature such classic tracks as “This Charming Man” “What Difference Does It Make?” “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” and “How Soon Is Now”.
Fell Out Boy + The Black Charade

Fell Out Boy + The Black Charade

3 May 2026 - 18 Dec 2026

Get set for the ultimate emo and pop punk night with The Black Charade (My Chemical Romance tribute) and Fell Out Boy (Fall Out Boy tribute), playing all the hits and fan favourites.
Nirvana UK

Nirvana UK

18 Apr 2026 - 30 Jan 2027

Nirvana UK are a Touring Nirvana tribute band based in the West Midlands and are formed of die hard Nirvana fans who love nothing more than recreating Nirvana's live music and look for other fans. The band strive to be as close to the real deal as possible, including the same clothes, instruments, effect boxes, drums and pre-amps that the band used, to ensure they recreate the distinctive Nirvana sound. The band is made up of: Jez (Kurt Cobain), Dan (Krist Novoselic), Jon (Dave Grohl) Guests can include: Byron (Pat Smear), Emily (Lori Goldstein) Nirvana UK's sets include the whole spectrum of Nirvana's live and studio catalogue..... not to mention the standard Nirvana style anarchy and abuse of gear at the conclusion of each show. So if you like Nirvana, or just want to relive your youth, come as you are and check them out.... you wont be disappointed.
Guns 2 Roses

Guns 2 Roses

3 Apr 2026 - 11 Dec 2026

Guns 2 Roses Est. 2002 - The world's most successful Guns N Roses tribute band! The Only GNR tribute to have performed with 4 different members of Guns N Roses. Guns 2 Roses have existed since late 2002. Many tributes have tried but not one comes close to the looks, authenticity and natural charisma Guns 2 Roses has to emulate GNR. They have appeared on stage and in media worldwide and have played to thousands throughout the UK, Europe, India, Middle East and USA!
Definitely Mightbe

Definitely Mightbe

3 Apr 2026 - 29 Jan 2027

Well, Oasis are no more. The back stage bust ups and public slanging matches on Twitter proved too much for this great British band. Thankfully, their No1 Tribute-Definitely Mightbe (now in their twelfth year) don’t share the same sibling rivalry as the real thing, but they do have a lot in common when it comes to reproducing the rousing anthems, stage presence and atmosphere that the originals created. With over two hours of material to draw from, including all the hit’s from all seven albums, live favourites, B-sides and a couple of Noel’s acoustic number’s, when the boys start there’s no stopping them. And who wants to stop when everybody’s having a good time? Lead singer Ian bears an uncanny resemblance to Liam and has worked as a look-a-like in the UK appearing on BBC1, Channel 4, Sky TV and ITV. Publicity campaigns and advertising for HMV, Virgin, Q Magazine, Loaded, Royal Bank Of Scotland, Lloyds Bank and the National Press. Ian was also asked to star in a video for heavy metal legends MOTORHEAD as Liam and also providing a voice over for a recent documentary accompanying the new Oasis-”Time Flies” DVD. To add to this, Ian has the knack of sounding like Liam too and was asked to provide the vocals on a dance remix of Wonderwall set for release in summer 2010. Paul Mitchell takes up the reigns as Noel and mimics the riffs and lead breaks with such precision you’d think you were listening to the CD. A very loud CD. While the rhythm section of Kev Pyne on bass and Pete Coppard on drums keep everything locked together and completes the DEF MB family. So, as good as the real thing? Well, the lengendary Alan McGee thought so when he recently introduced the band live on stage! So they…..Definitely Mightbe.
Daft Funk Live

Daft Funk Live

11 Apr 2026 - 18 Apr 2027

Daft Funk Live! are a Daft Punk tribute-band based in the UK. Embracing the live aspect of DP's performances, they incorporate their own custom light shows, including a three-meter high LED pyramid, and use live instruments to give an immersive and dynamic show. Their stage production is meticulously crafted, paying the utmost homage to the infamous and illusive Robots.
The Tumbling Paddies

The Tumbling Paddies

9 Apr 2026 - 19 Dec 2026

One of Ireland's most popular music acts, The Tumbling Paddies are now coming to England! Song writing and original material is a major part of their success. Hit songs include Pretty Girl, Night On The Town and The Way I Am, which topped the Irish charts for 10 consecutive weeks. Having grown from strength to strength over the past few years, it is no surprise that their music is being played in venues all over the world. Formed in 2014 in their beloved County Fermanagh, they soon became the region's favourite covers band. After welcoming Oisin on keyboards, the band started to write and record their own original music, gaining more and more followers. The Tumbling Paddies soon became one of Ireland's most prolific touring acts, playing sell-out gigs all over the country, including TF Castlebar and the INEC in Killarney. The band are now enjoying global success with recent tours in Dubai, Germany, and Spain. With an exuberant, energy-filled, live show, The Tumbling Paddies, will perform a mix of original songs and classic Irish hits, in what promises to be an incredibly uplifting night of live music.
The Comedy Store

The Comedy Store

3 Apr 2026 - 12 Dec 2027

With nearly 40 years’ experience in the business and as the premier name in comedy, The Comedy Store is renowned as a breeding ground for new comedy talent, and remains the place to see tomorrow’s stars today. The likes of Eddie Izzard, John Bishop, Jimmy Carr, Rhod Gilbert and Sarah Millican, have all cut their comedy teeth with us. We bring you “The Best In Stand Up” from around the globe, showcasing the brightest names in comedy today. Simply the funniest show you’ll see all year!
Uprising

Uprising

23 May 2026 - 23 May 2026

Uprising is a full day of metal over multiple stages featuring a host of the heaviest bands. 2024 line up: Brujeria, Breed77, Discharge, Rampage Inc, Forlorn, Sugar Horse, Mage, Tribe of Ghosts
China Crisis

China Crisis

24 Apr 2026 - 18 Dec 2026

Eddie Lundon and Gary Daly are the founder members of the band which started in Kirkby, Merseyside back in 1979. China Crisis found major success in the UK with five Top 40 singles, ten Top 50 singles and three Top 40 albums and hits across Australia, Europe and the Americas. The band are known for their string of hit singles, including African & White, Christian, Working with Fire and Steel, Black Man Ray and Wishful Thinking, The RETROspective tour will see the band performing these classics alongside songs from all of their seven studio albums.
Massive Wagons

Massive Wagons

17 Apr 2026 - 2 May 2026

Hard rockers Massive Wagons formed in 2009 in their hometown of Carnforth, England with vocalist Barry Mills and guitarist Adam Thistlethwaite who were at the time on the local live circuit as part of indie rock band Ace Face (though with Mills on bass guitar). The duo decided to strike out with their own music of a harder hitting variety, with the stage show to match. The decision was influenced by the resurging popularity of hard rock acts of the time, primarily Airbourne and Black Stone Cherry and the duos lifelong affinity for classic rock acts such as UFO, Rainbow and Slade. Adams brother Alex was recruited on drums and old school buddy Adam Bouskill joined on bass, freeing Mills to focus on the role of frontman, the line-up was completed by Carl Cochrane on rhythm guitar. For a while the 5 piece was nameless until they jokingly adopted the nickname of a local barmaid for their first gig, only for the name to stick and become their official moniker.
The Beat

The Beat

4 Apr 2026 - 29 Oct 2026

One tempestuous weekend in March 1979 was not only the date of the Three Mile Island nuclear incident, but also, in Birmingham, England, the very first show by a nascent band known as The Beat.
Jalen Ngonda

Jalen Ngonda

22 Apr 2026 - 3 Nov 2026

Jalen N'gonda is one of the most captivating performers on today’s soul scene. His voice, equal parts raw feeling and elegance, exudes confidence and charm. Most recently, Jalen thrilled audiences and garnered rave reviews with his powerful solo performance in support of Thee Sacred Souls’ US tour. Now with a pair of widely revered singles under his belt at his new home, Daptone Records, Jalen prepares for the release of his debut LP, Come Around and Love Me. 
The Amy Winehouse Experience: Lioness

The Amy Winehouse Experience: Lioness

10 Apr 2026 - 12 Mar 2027

In her short career the talent of Amy Winehouse created a lasting impression on the music world of the 21st century. Recording three critically acclaimed albums from her debut ‘Frank’ in 2003, the Grammy Award winning ‘Back to Black’ in 2006 and the posthumous ‘Lioness’ in 2011 along with the covers of ‘Cupid’ and ‘Valerie’ with Producer Mark Ronson no one can deny the talent and impact of this often misunderstood star. Lioness provide an authentic tribute to the precocious talent featuring TV’s ‘Stars in Their Eyes’ finalist Emma Wright as Amy Winehouse plus a full seven piece backing band to recreate the authentic sound of this heady mix of jazz, soul and pop. This full stage show showcasing the talent of this songstress will take you on a journey through the emotional roller coaster of her song writing, guaranteed to have you singing and dancing along throughout the performance. The band are made up of hand-picked experienced musicians, carefully selected to maintain the accuracy to the original performances of the UK’s brightest star that so tragically burned out in 2011, focusing on her vocal talent and soul. Lioness provide, without doubt, the most authentic recreation of Amy Winehouse, designed to entertain and deliver the experience of Amy at her very best. Having recently completed their first two UK and Irish tours the response from the audience has exceeded all expectations. Selling out shows and covering over 8,000 miles and selling in excess of 7,000 tickets in the past year The Amy Winehouse Experience have delivered at every level.
The Beast Uk - Iron Maiden Tribute

The Beast Uk - Iron Maiden Tribute

11 Jun 2026 - 18 Sept 2026

If you ever saw Iron Maiden in 1986, or wish you had - this is the closest you will ever get. The Beast UK marks the 40th anniversary of Iron Maiden’s legendary 1986 UK tour with a fully realised recreation of the iconic Somewhere On Tour era. Audiences can expect a full-scale theatrical production, featuring a custom-built stage set created by Iron Maiden’s original stage builders, authentic lighting design, pyrotechnics, and era-accurate visuals - meticulously engineered to mirror the power and atmosphere of Maiden’s mid-80s live shows. To honour the 40th anniversary of the era, Somewhere in Time 1986 album will be performed in its entirety, giving fans the rare chance to experience every track from the album live! The set also delivers all the anthems that made Iron Maiden a global force, including The Trooper, Run to the Hills, and The Number of the Beast - ensuring a show that satisfies die-hard fans while remaining unmissable for casual rock audiences. Fresh from a highly praised 2025 debut UK tour, The Beast UK has earned a reputation as one of the most authentic and ambitious tribute productions in Europe.
The Wedding Present

The Wedding Present

22 May 2026 - 31 Oct 2026

The Wedding Present, formed from the ashes of Lost Pandas, were founded in Leeds, England, in 1985. The only constant member throughout the group's history was singer/songwriter David Gedge. The initial line-up included guitarist Peter Solowka, bassist Keith Gregory, and drummer Shaun Charman.
Transvision Vamp

Transvision Vamp

6 Oct 2026 - 1 Nov 2026

Transvision Vamp was formed by Wendy James and co-writer and guitarist Nick Christian Sayer. In West London they teamed up with Dave Parsons and Tex Axile. The band was signed to MCA records by Dave Ambrose, the notorious A&R man from EMI records who had also signed the Sex Pistols. They recorded their first LP album ‘Pop Art’ and released a first single ‘Revolution Baby’ and then charted with their second single, a cover version of Holly & The Italians ‘Tell That Girl To Shut Up’, followed by a third single ‘I Want Your Love’ which went to No.5 on the UK singles chart. The album ‘Pop Art’ was released later in 1988 and went to No.3 in the UK album chart. Extensive touring of the UK and Europe continued throughout this year as their success grew, starting on the University circuit and ending with playing two sold out gigs at the London Town And Country Club, taking in the Marquee Club along the way with queues two-fold around the block of Wardour Street, London Presented by CHALK. This is an 14+ event
The Harry Styles Tribute Show

The Harry Styles Tribute Show

12 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Relive your summer all over again with the viral Harry Styles tribute show starring Sean Mac and his live band, a show for the fans made by a fan. So gather your friends, gather your fellow Harries, and come ready to dance.
Hothouse Flowers

Hothouse Flowers

3 Nov 2026 - 27 Dec 2026

Since the release of their last CD, 'Into Your Heart' Hothouse Flowers have been playing steadily around Ireland, America, Great Britain, Japan and Europe. Their shows last between two and three hours depending on the level of fever in the room. Most recently their sound has been enhanced and reinvigorated by the return of Peter O’Toole on bass, bouzouki and vocals. Drumming with the band these last ten years is Dave Clarke. Dave has been a drummer in Dublin since the beginning. His commitment to the beat is mesmerizing. His style has been a force in the direction of Hothouse Flowers today. Also playing with the band these days is Dorset man Martin Brunsden on double bass and backing vocals. His musicality adds yet another dimension to the ever evolving sound of the band. There is an unpredictable energy in the band that harkens back to the 'Risk' days. They call upon their grand repertoire to create a show that is unique to the time and place. No two shows are the same. Improvisation can come at any point and allow the men express their brightest and their darkest influences. 'Rock and Roll is not about safety or politeness, it is not about perfection either. It is expression and it is spirit.' Humour is also never far from a Hothouse Flowers night. They do not take themselves seriously however, there is no mistaking the musical integrity among them as they open up to each other in musical dialogue. Fiachna, Liam and Peter are traditional musicians. This allows for moments of ancestral connection. What was a second before a Doors-like workout, becomes an earnest and a timeless offering to the memory of Currachaí na Tra Báine. A song inherited by Fiachna describing the blow inflicted upon a community and a family due to drowning. This moment and moments like these set the Flowers apart from almost any other band of their time and trade. They are carriers of Culture and all of what that entails. Hothouse Flowers came out of tough times. They played the streets and brought the streets to the stages of the world. Individually Fiachna and Liam are enjoying a broadening of their horizons. Fiachna has been producing and presenting radio and television programmes and working as a composer of music for television. Liam has been collaborating with the Fabulous Beast Dance Theatre Company. Still Hothouse Flowers has not yet fulfilled her destiny. The possibilities are endless. The will is there. Ni fada go bhfeicfear.
The Courteeners

The Courteeners

23 Jul 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

In support of their upcoming fifth studio album, ´Mapping the Rendevous´, indie rockers Courteeners have announced that they will be embarking on their biggest tour to date which will include a date at the first direct arena in Leeds. News of the tour comes as the band releases the second single from the album, ´No One Will Ever Replace Us´. Supporting Courteeners will be Clean Cut Kid and Milburn.
Last Resort: Nu-Metal Tribute

Last Resort: Nu-Metal Tribute

24 Apr 2026 - 18 Dec 2026

Last Resort bring an awesome night of nu-metal. Expect the raw energy of the early 2000s, the bounce, the breakdowns and the tracks you still know every word to. If you grew up on baggy jeans, chain wallets and distorted guitars then this is your night. Bring the crew, warm up your neck muscles and prepare to scream along.
The Marmozets

The Marmozets

4 Jun 2026 - 12 Jun 2026

SJM Concerts Presents Marmozets plus special guests. Exhilarating, clattering alternative rock/metal quintet made up of the MacIntyre siblings Becca (vocals), Sam (guitar) and Josh (drums) with the Bottomley brothers Jack (guitar) and Will (bass).
From the Jam

From the Jam

3 Apr 2026 - 23 Dec 2026

From the Jam features Bruce Foxton from the original Jam line up. He also spent 15 years playing bass with Stiff Little Fingers. Bruce is joined by Russell Hastings on lead vocal and guitar. From The Jam have gained a reputation for the kind of incendiary ‘live’ performances that sealed the reputation of The Jam all those years ago. Audiences can expect to hear classic The Jam hits such as Down In The Tube Station At Midnight, Going Underground, Town Called Malice and The Modern World as well as some live favourites and songs from Bruce’s solo career.
Moving Pictures - A Tribute To Rush

Moving Pictures - A Tribute To Rush

10 Apr 2026 - 5 Dec 2026

Hailing from Scotland and the Lake District, 3-piece Moving Pictures play classic rush using a serious amount of gear. They've played in front of Rush producer Terry Brown, headlined RUSHfest Scotland and appeared on the tribute albums Songs For Neil Vol.1 & 2.
Embrace

Embrace

6 Jun 2026 - 28 Nov 2026

Embrace celebrate the 20th anniversary of their massive-selling, No.1 album, Out Of Nothing, playing their biggest selling record in full, along with their other greatest hits.
The Rifles

The Rifles

27 Aug 2026 - 27 Nov 2026

There can’t be many other bands in the UK with as fervent a fanbase as The Rifles. Over a decade after their formation, they can still play to thousands of fans all over the country. They have an impressive catalogue under their belt which includes 5 studio albums and a host of songs that have become institutional fan favourites, and it is these tracks that have been compiled to form the new compilation, 'Singles Collection'. It’s hard to think of a band more operating on their own terms, more outside of any sphere of influence, and more still alive than the Rifles. 'Singles Collection' is a retrospective homage to that achievement.

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