Music Legends Who Have Played in Leeds

Leeds’ Role in Music History

Leeds has a rich musical heritage, having hosted many internationally renowned artists over the decades. From iconic venues such as Queens Hall and Roundhay Park to university halls and arenas, the city has welcomed a diverse range of performers who have left a lasting impression on local audiences. This article reviews some of the notable music legends who have performed in Leeds, reflecting the city’s significance in the UK music scene.

The Beatles

The Beatles performed in Leeds on four occasions during the early 1960s. One significant concert took place at Queens Hall in June 1963, attracting over 3,000 fans. Queens Hall, which was originally the Swinegate Tram Depot, was a major venue until its demolition in 1989. It hosted numerous famous acts including AC/DC, Elton John, Pink Floyd, and The Rolling Stones.

The Beatles’ other concerts in Leeds were held at the former Odeon Theatre on The Headrow between 1963 and 1964. These shows were part of the height of Beatlemania, with reports of large police presence to manage the enthusiastic crowds. The Beatles are sometimes mistakenly thought to have performed at The Grand Theatre, but records confirm the Odeon as the correct venue.

Dire Straits

Mark Knopfler, frontman of Dire Straits and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, has strong ties to Leeds. Before forming the band, he studied and lectured in the city. Dire Straits’ first Leeds performance was at Leeds Polytechnic Student Union on 30 January 1978, supporting Talking Heads. This gig is believed to be one of their earliest live recordings and included songs inspired by local figures, such as “In the Gallery,” about Leeds sculptor Harry Phillips.

In 2025, bassist John Illsley returned to Leeds for an intimate show at The Varieties, continuing the band’s connection to the city.

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson performed at Roundhay Park twice, first in August 1988 during his Bad World Tour and again in 1992 on the Dangerous World Tour. His 1988 concert coincided with his 30th birthday, and the audience of around 90,000 sang “Happy Birthday” to him. Roundhay Park has also hosted other major artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, and Ed Sheeran.

Genesis and Phil Collins

Genesis played at Roundhay Park in June 1987 during the Invisible Touch tour, attracting over 80,000 fans despite rainy weather. They returned in July 1992 for the We Can’t Dance tour. Earlier, in September 1982, Genesis performed at Leeds Queens Hall. In 2021, Phil Collins, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford reunited for two shows at the First Direct Arena in Leeds as part of their final tour, The Last Domino?.

David Bowie and T. Rex

David Bowie performed two shows at Leeds Rollarena in 1973 during his Ziggy Stardust era. These concerts were part of a tour promoting several of his albums, including Hunky Dory and The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars. Bowie returned to Leeds in 1997 for the Earthlings tour at the venue now known as the O2 Academy.

Leeds University Refectory also has a notable glam rock history. In November 1969, T. Rex played there, marking the first performance of key band member Mickey Finn. This lineup helped define the glam rock genre before the band’s commercial success. Other glam rock acts such as Slade and Mud also performed in Leeds venues during the 1970s and 1980s.

Additional Information

• Queens Hall was considered the largest exhibition space outside London when it opened in 1961.
• Leeds Polytechnic hosted many important concerts during the 1970s and 1980s, including Fleetwood Mac, Electric Light Orchestra, and the Sex Pistols.
• Roundhay Park continues to be a major outdoor venue for large-scale concerts and is set to host the Roundhay Festival in summer 2026.

Leeds’ musical legacy is reflected in the variety of artists and genres that have appeared in the city’s venues over the years. From rock and pop to glam and soul, the city has played an important role in the UK’s live music history.

Source: Leeds Heritage Theatres