Lusaint’s Manchester: music venues, live music bars, jazz clubs

‘Cottonopolis’ has come a long way since its historic role in the UK’s industrial revolution. Manchester has evolved to become an educational, cultural and economic hub known for producing world class football teams, A-list actors and a near-constant stream of musical talent.

So integral to the UK’s music scene is this northern city that a few decades ago it traded its old nickname for a new one, ‘Madchester’ – a reflection of the unique rock sounds which emerged from the city during the 1980s. Oasis, Joy Division, The 1975 and The Smiths all hail from Manchester (as well as many others), and have performed myriad gigs throughout their native city, helping cement its reputation as the musical mecca it is today.

It’s now just one of a number of British cities which tempt gig-trippers to visit every year, a travel trend which sees music fans head abroad to watch their favourite artists play.

Manchester’s latest knockout is Lusaint, a soulful singer with a deep love of her hometown. She walks us through the music venues in Manchester not to miss.

But first, dive into the Skyscanner x Exceptional Alien guide to uncover the city’s other cool spots and hidden gems.

Who is Lusaint?

Lusaint is a singer-songwriter who was born in Stretford, Manchester. She began her career covering well-known songs with her distinctive blend of motown, jazz and soul – she received particular attention for her version of Chris Isaak’s Wicked Game and En Vogue’s Don’t Let Go.

In 2024, she releases her first EP, Self Sabotage, an achievement which comes after much air play on the likes of BBC 6 Music and Radio X.

How does Manchester inspire Lusaint to create music?

Unlike many musicians, Lusaint has never based herself anywhere other than her hometown, meaning Manchester plays an inherent role in her music. “Having lived here my whole life, there’s so much about the city that feels nostalgic and homely,” she says, “It always grounds me and brings me back to a place of calm.”

Part of Manchester’s allure for the singer however, is its ability to be both peaceful and reflective, but also energising. “It’s vibrant; there’s something for everyone,” she articulates. “[It’s] a very cosmopolitan, friendly, cultured city that I think holds a lot of water for me in terms of knowing how much it inspires me.”

Manchester’s other musical outputs are equally important to Lusaint. She cites the song ‘Waterfall’ by fellow Mancunians The Stone Roses as a particularly apt representation of the burg. “[It] reminds me of walking through Fletcher Moss Park in Didsbury on a summer day with an ice cream in hand, not carrying the world. It's just really inspiring and uplifting.”

Lusaint’s favourite Manchester music venues

Manchester’s music venues are as comprehensive and diverse as Berlin’s, featuring everything from vast 21,000-capacity arenas down to intimate, back alley bars. These are the three that Lusaint recommend you visit on your next trip to the city.

Visit the Exceptional Alien Manchester guide for personal recommendations from a community of local experts.