How music is the heartbeat to Liverpool City Centre

When Liverpool was announced as host of Eurovision 2023 you could probably hear the cheers in rival city Glasgow.

And the delight in taking centre stage to champion winners Ukraine in the world’s most popular music competition is matched only by the feeling that it had to be us in Liverpool.

Liverpool BID Company supported the bid knowing the effect it would have on the city and the economy.

CEO Bill Addy said: “Major events in the city have an impact on local business and have a positive impact on the economy.

“Eurovision isn’t a one-off event, it’s a week-long festival bringing an army of musicians, artists, a creative community and, of course, fans.

“It will have a huge impact, filling hotel rooms to restaurant tables.”

But, of course, it also backed the proposal to put on Eurovision understanding the importance of it and music to the city: “It’s an opportunity to show people what a rich, diverse, welcoming, inclusive, colourful and musical city Liverpool is,” he added.

Although we don’t necessarily need Eurovision to show us that.

Music’s always been the heartbeat of the city, whether you go back to bands from the sixties or last Saturday in town. 

From The Beatles to today’s artists like The Crawlers and Zuzu, music is the pulse which keeps Liverpool alive, in its bars, its clubs and, even on the streets.

Whether you’re a rock fiend to a classical kind of gal, or you prefer a little bit of country or easy listening, the city is always beating to the sound of music, and in Town, there’s something for Everyone. Everyday.

Just look at these top five music venues:

M&S Bank Arena

The huge waterfront arena is the destination venue for massive music stars from around the world and closer to home, and a look at who’s coming between now and Christmas shows just how popular it is with Westlife, Rod Stewart, Paolo Nutini, Kaiser Chiefs, and our own Jamie Webster all set to appear.

O2 Academy

After refurbishment in 2003, the former factory in Hotham Street has reclaimed its place as a great place to watch live music in the city. It’s hosted shows from internationally acclaimed artists, rock legends, indie icons, cutting edge dance and urban acts.

The Philharmonic

Home to the UK’s oldest continuing professional symphony orchestra – the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra – it’s the place to catch up on a bit of culture with music from some of the most celebrated composers, as well as modern musicians and artists.

The Cavern Club

Birthplace of The Beatles and stars like Cilla this legendary cellar has played a role in every era of music from 1950s jazz to 21st century indie rock. It continues to pack in audiences with resident musicians like Clark Gilmour and Sarah Deboe, and guests from the world of jazz to country.

McCooley’s

Not just a sports bar! Whether it’s weekend or a week night, McCooley’s in Mathew Street or Concert Square is the place for live music, and the chance to see some of the up-and-coming talent from around the city.

Visit the Liverpool BID website here.