As part of our recent Brits in our Backyard survey, we asked residents a simple question:
Who is your all-time favourite Manchester band or artist?
It won’t surprise many that Oasis topped the list, and by a huge margin with 60 mentions. From lifelong fans to those who recently saw them perform at Heaton Park, the love for the Gallagher brothers remains as strong as ever.
One resident told us:
“Oasis! Any other answer would be blasphemy.”
Another said:
“Gotta be Oasis, hasn’t it?”
A new generation of favourites
While Manchester’s musical heritage remains strong, today’s newer artists are clearly making their mark too.
Aitch was one of the most popular modern choices, with residents praising not just his music but his connection to the North Manchester community in which he grew up...
“I would say Aitch. He has helped my brother’s school get a new playground.”
"Aitch who lives close to where we live."
More Manchester legends...
The 90s continue to hold a special place in many hearts. The Stone Roses, The Smiths, Joy Division and Take That were all frequently mentioned.
As one resident put it:
“The Stone Roses — I was born in the wrong era, the 90s were the bomb!”
The rest...
From childhood memories tied to a favourite song, to shared tastes across generations, our residents were not shy in letting us know who their favourites were.
Also mentioned in the survey were:
New Order, James, Simply Red, Beautiful South, The Hollies, Lighthouse Family, UB40, M60, Blossoms, The Courteeners, Lamb, The 1975, Bugzy Malone, Children of Zeus and even Rochdale lass Lisa Stansfield!
I'd also like to give a shout out to the resident who mentioned the brilliant Sweet Female Attitude:
"Sweet Female Attitude', as what they did to uplift the UK garage scene within the UK and Manchester with their song 'Flowers'. That song has so many memories from my childhood!"
