Manchester Let’s Rock!

Manchester, it’s time to swap your spreadsheets for setlists!

Get your Tickets!

Join us for a high-energy battle of the bands event where worker bees from across Manchester will go head to head to win over the crowd and judges.

Meet the Contestants!

Tommy Ducks

This rag-tag collection of shouldabeens and wannabes – Nic, John, Stu, Sir Terence and Nick – may not claim to have spent much time rehearsing, but they have been on a team trip to Aldi, where they acquired three effects pedals, some leather trousers, a moose hat, and a crate of slightly out-of-date passionfruit and mango cider cocktails. Make of that what you will.

Their set promises a heady mix of punk, glam, art rock and pure noise. Think somewhere between Black Flag and the Starland Vocal Band and you’re in the right ballpark. It’s gonna be interesting to say the least…

Well ‘ard Badgers Club

These middle-aged wannabe rock gods have traded computer screens for power chords and are absolutely ready to bring the noise. Expect loud indie classics, full-throttle fun, and maybe a hamstring injury or two.

They’re rolling in with a loyal squad of colleagues who’ll be cheering them on every step of the way.

(Photo Credit: Robert Kicka)

Venus and the Stars

Venus is a lifelong music lover whose sound is shaped by the disco and pop icons they grew up with – from Kylie Minogue to Carly Rae Jepsen. Their mission is to create catchy, heartfelt pop with real depth, drawing from their experiences as a trans performer.

An activist by simply existing as their true self, Venus stands proudly for what’s right and hopes to inspire young trans people by being visible, honest and unapologetically themselves – on and off stage. Although they usually perform with a full band, Venus will be flying solo for this gig, and we’re honoured to have them with us on the line-up!

Alex Magee

Alex will be bringing that unmistakable Mancunian indie rock n roll energy – gritty, melodic and anthemic. Influenced by Oasis, The Verve and the wider Britpop scene, his sound focuses on big choruses, attitude and the swagger that defined 90s Northern guitar bands.

Word on the street is that the fire in his heart is definitely not out…

We’re buzzing to have him join the lineup and even more grateful for Zuto’s incredible support in helping make this event happen.

If you would like to sponsor the event please explore the sponsorship pack below.

Sponsorship Pack

Meet the Judges!

Matt White

You will know Matt for his work in radio, TV and for his regular appearances on Manchester’s Finest.  He began his career at BBC Radio Manchester and went on to run his own radio station, XS Manchester. He’s also worked with the likes of Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio 6 Music, and is the founder of food and drink podcast “Fodder”. Matt can also be found spinning tunes at some of the city’s hottest venues.

John Robb

Musician and journalist John Robb knows a lot about the makings of a successful rock band. He’s the bassist and singer for post-punk band, The Membranes and the vocalist in punk rock band Goldblade. John is also the founder of music and culture publication, Louder Than War. Music is in his blood.

Jenna G

A huge voice that’s joining the judging panel is the immensely talented Jenna G. Jenna is an independent artist, writer, creative producer and broadcaster from Manchester. With over 25 years of experience working in the music industry, she’s got a keen eye for great musical talent and showstopping performances, AND she performed at The Other stage at last year’s Glastonbury with Fabio and Grooverider.

Andy Booth

Andy is a corporate lawyer and partner at Sas Daniels LLP, best known for his work in the music industry. Having practised law in the music industry for over 20 years – representing musicians, songwriters, independent record labels and dealing with everything from recording contracts and publishing agreements to management arrangements for high-profile artists in the North West. His music business journey started in the mid-80s as a guitarist in Leeds band The Cassandra Complex, and he still occasionally plays in the band. Let’s just say he knows a bit about the biz.

Get Involved

We’re inviting Greater Manchester businesses of all sizes to put their best musical talent forward and compete for glory in one of the city’s most iconic music venues, all whilst raising vital funds for local community groups.

Whether you’re a law firm, accountancy giant, tech start-up or marketing agency, if you’ve got a passion for performance, we want to hear from you!

Forever Manchester Rocks will see participating bands perform in front of a judging panel of expert music industry professionals and an adoring crowd for a night of unforgettable entertainment and trademark Manchester energy.  The contest is open to existing bands as well as those specially formed to take part – so this is your opportunity to put your team in the spotlight like never before. 

All finalists will get the opportunity to perform at one of the country’s most iconic venues and the winners of this year’s competition will claim the first ever Manchester Business Rocks Legends Trophy, as well as being awarded the opportunity to perform at the annual Forever Manchester Birthday Party at the Kimpton Clocktower in February 2026.

The rules for entering the competition are as follows: 

• A majority of band members must work at the same company or in the same industry
• Covers or originals welcome – just bring your best 15 minute set
• You bring the instruments and tunes – the backline, PA and sound engineer will be provided
• Acts will be judged on talent, energy, crowd reaction, showmanship and amount of money raised.
• All band members must be 18+

To register your band, please fill in the application form and send to jennifer@forevermanchester.com.

Application Form

The deadline for entry into the competition is Thursday 30th October.

For more information or if you have any queries about Forever Manchester Rocks, contact us at jennifer@forevermanchester.com or ring us on 0161 214 0940