LIONEL RICHIE CLOSES OUT UK LEG OF HIS SAY HELLO TO THE HITS TOUR

Music legend Lionel Richie delivered a show-stopping finale to the UK leg of his acclaimed Say Hello to the Hits Tour on Sunday night, performing to a packed house at London’s The O2. The global music superstar thrilled fans with a career-spanning setlist filled with timeless classics, marking the end of a series of sold-out UK shows in Glasgow, Sheffield, Birmingham, Manchester, and London.

A Tour Full of Hits, Love, and Acclaim

Critics and fans alike praised the UK tour, highlighting Richie’s legendary vocals, charismatic stage presence, and iconic setlist.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – The Guardian
“Full of deep love and mutual appreciation. Such worn-in comfort takes decades to get just right.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – The Telegraph
“The night was a warm celebration of music that has meant so much to so many.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – The Times
“The evening crested wave after wave of pure disco karaoke.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Daily Express
“Showcasing his voice – still as caramel-smooth as ever.”

Unforgettable UK Highlights

From the joyful energy of All Night Long to the emotional highs of Hello and Endless Love, Richie’s performances were described as "a trophy parade of major songs" by the Manchester Evening News, who gave the show a glowing five-star review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Manchester Evening News
“The evening was something of an open-top trophy parade tour of major songs with a large helping of that Lionel Richie charisma dropped in for good measure.”

Additional praise came from regional outlets across the UK:

• Sheffield Star: “Master singer-songwriter, pianist and performer.”

• Birmingham Express & Star: “He wowed the audience with hit after hit.”

• Yorkshire Post: “Richie possesses an undeniable charm and a voice that remains smooth and powerful.”

Next Stop: Europe

With the UK leg wrapped, Lionel Richie now heads across Europe, bringing his Say Hello to the Hits Tour to 23 cities this summer. The European leg includes performances in:

Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, France, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

Fans across the continent can expect an electrifying night of music, featuring all the biggest Lionel Richie hits—from his days with the Commodores to his phenomenal solo career.

A Live Experience Like No Other

Say Hello to the Hits, Lionel Richie’s first UK and European arena tour in over nine years, has proven once again that he remains one of the world’s most beloved and charismatic performers. Each concert is more than a show—it's a celebration of music, love, and life that leaves audiences dancing, singing, and smiling.

LIONEL RICHIE LAUNCHES 2025 UK TOUR WITH SOLD OUT SHOW IN BELFAST

Photo: Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images

Music Icon Delivers Timeless Hits and High-Energy Performance on Opening Night of “Say Hello to the Hits” Tour

Global music legend Lionel Richie kicked off his highly anticipated 2025 UK and European tour with a sold-out performance at SSE Arena Belfast on Saturday. The “Say Hello to the Hits” tour marks Richie’s first major arena tour in the UK and Europe in nearly a decade - and fans were treated to a night of iconic songs, electrifying energy, and unforgettable moments..

A Night to Remember: Lionel Richie in Belfast

From the moment Richie took the stage, the crowd erupted. Backed by a world-class band and dazzling visuals, Richie opened with classics like Hello and powered through a setlist that included Dancing on the Ceiling, Endless Love, Easy, and All Night Long.

Fans sang every word, danced in the aisles, and experienced firsthand why Lionel Richie live in concert remains a must-see musical event.

“It’s so great to be back in the UK,” Richie told the crowd. “It reminded me why I love performing here so much. Starting the tour like this is all I could have asked for. If Belfast is anything to go by, I can’t wait to visit all the other great cities on this tour. We’re in for a great time!”

Say Hello to the Hits: 2025 Tour Dates & Cities

Following the Belfast opener, Lionel Richie’s UK tour dates include stops in Glasgow, London, Sheffield, Birmingham and Manchester.

Click here for tour dates.

From there, the European leg begins, with a total of 20 shows across the continent, wrapping up with a grand finale at Wizink Centre, Madrid on August 2nd.

Why Fans Shouldn’t Miss the Lionel Richie 2025 Tour

This tour is more than just a concert - it’s a celebration of Richie’s legendary career. With his signature charm, soulful vocals, and genuine connection with fans, Lionel Richie continues to prove why he’s one of the greatest live performers of all time.

Whether you’ve loved him since the Commodores or are discovering him for the first time, Lionel Richie’s 2025 tour promises music, emotion, nostalgia, and joy.

Experience the Magic Live

Want to be part of the celebration? Tickets for remaining dates are selling fast. Click here to book your seats for a night filled with timeless music and unforgettable memories.

POLAR MUSIC PRIZE 2025 HONOURS HERBIE HANCOCK

The Polar Music Prize 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious international music awards, celebrated three legendary artists this year: rock icons Queen, acclaimed soprano and conductor Barbara Hannigan, and jazz innovator Herbie Hancock. Each recipient was personally honoured by King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden during a spectacular ceremony at The Grand Hotel in Stockholm.

Honouring Musical Legends with the Polar Music Prize

The Polar Music Prize, often dubbed the "Nobel Prize of Music", recognizes exceptional achievements across all genres. This year’s laureates reflect the diversity and global impact in shaping culture and connecting humanity.

Herbie Hancock’s Moving Acceptance Speech

Jazz legend Herbie Hancock, known for groundbreaking compositions like Watermelon Man and Chameleon, delivered an emotional acceptance speech:

“What an incredible honour to be with you here tonight, to receive the prestigious Polar Music Prize. I’m deeply humbled. I accept this award not just for myself, but on behalf of all the musicians, and dreamers who dare to believe that creativity and human connection can change the world."

Why the Polar Music Prize Matters

Recognizing outstanding contributions to classical music, jazz, rock, and beyond, the Polar Music Prize shines a global spotlight on innovation, artistry, and cultural legacy in music. The 2025 honourees exemplify the award's mission to honour those who push boundaries and inspire generations.

Star-Studded Live Performances Electrify Stockholm

The 2025 award ceremony featured live music performances from a stellar lineup of internationally renowned artists, including Esperanza Spalding and Robert Glasper, both multiple GRAMMY® award winners, who collaborated on Herbie Hancock’s classics “Trust Me” and “Watermelon Man”.

A Night Celebrating Excellence in Global Music

The event reaffirmed Sweden’s role as a global hub for cultural celebration and recognition in the music industry.

HERBIE HANCOCK ANNOUNCES 3-NIGHT RESIDENCY AT LONDON'S BARBICAN AS PART OF SUMMER JAZZ SERIES

Photo: Danny Clinch

Herbie Hancock returns to the Barbican Hall with a 3-night UK exclusive residency to celebrate his 85th birthday and over 50 years since his first ever London show, at the historic Rainbow Theatre in Finsbury Park. Herbie Hancock is a true icon of modern music. Throughout his explorations, he has transcended limitations and genres while maintaining his unmistakable voice. With an illustrious career spanning five decades and 14 Grammy Awards, he continues to amaze audiences across the globe. Herbie’s last performance at the Barbican in 2023 was described as “completely engrossing” by The Guardian.

There are few artists in the music industry who have had more influence on acoustic and electronic jazz and R&B than Herbie Hancock. As the immortal Miles Davis said in his autobiography, “Herbie was the step after Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk, and I haven’t heard anybody yet who has come after him.”

Now in the sixth decade of his professional life, Herbie Hancock remains where he has always been: in the forefront of world culture, technology, business and music. Though one can’t track exactly where he will go next, he is sure to leave his inimitable imprint wherever he lands.

This exclusive residency is promoted alongside Marshall Arts and forms part of Serious’ Summer Jazz Series, in which a handpicked collection of global jazz stars will take to the stage at the Barbican and Cadogan Hall across June and July.

PAUL McCARTNEY ROCKS THE BOWERY - THIRD SHOW ADDED

THIRD AND FINAL SHOW ADDED DUE TO OVERWHELMING PUBLIC DEMAND

Paul McCartney has announced details of a third and final show tomorrow, Friday 14 February, at Bowery Ballroom, New York. Doors will be at 5.00PM. On stage at 6.30PM.

Tickets are on sale now at the Bowery Ballroom box office. No Tickets will be sold online. Tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis. One ticket per person.

Please avoid purchasing tickets from third-party vendors. Fake tickets will not be honoured and entry will be denied.

SIGNS OF A FAKE TICKET:

• Tickets for this event are PHYSICAL only. If someone sends you a digital ticket, it is a fake.

• Signs of a fake physical ticket include spelling mistakes, missing a Ticketmaster logo or watermark, or colouring that is not blue and white.

• More than one ticket - individuals were only able to purchase one ticket. Be wary of anyone offering more than one.

ELTON JOHN AND BRANDI CARLILE ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM AND DETAILS OF A VERY SPECIAL EVENING AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM

Elton John and Brandi Carlile have announced details of their collaborative studio album Who Believes In Angels?, set for release on 4th April.

Fans can pre-order Who Believes In Angels? to gain exclusive access for the chance to buy tickets to a unique evening of performance and storytelling as Elton & Brandi grace the stage of one of London’s most iconic venues for one night only on Wednesday 26 March 2025.

PLEASE NOTE that tickets will NOT be made available for public to buy and this is the only way that fans will have the chance to buy tickets.

Full details can be found on the Elton John Official Store:

Click here for full Terms & Conditions.

SPECIAL GUESTS ANNOUNCED AS PART OF SISTERS: ANNIE LENNOX AND FRIENDS

On 6 March 2025, an unforgettable night at the Royal Albert Hall will bring together some of the most talented artists and activists in the world. SISTERS: Annie Lennox and Friends is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of music, solidarity, and action for women and girls worldwide.

A Star-Studded Lineup

The legendary Annie Lennox will be joined by an incredible group of artists, including Celeste, Nadine Shah, and Ríoghnach Connolly. Their powerful voices and unique styles will add to the magic of this already sold-out event. Hosting the night will be the award-winning broadcaster Clara Amfo, and special guest speaker Misan Harriman—a renowned photographer and activist—will take the stage to highlight the importance of supporting women’s rights.

But that’s not all—fans can expect surprise appearances from even more special guests on the night, making this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Supporting Women and Girls Worldwide

This extraordinary event is raising funds for The Circle, a global feminist organisation dedicated to fighting for the rights of marginalised women and girls. From combating gender-based violence to addressing economic inequality, The Circle works tirelessly to create a fairer world.

Annie Lennox, a long-time advocate for women’s rights, expressed her excitement:

“I’m absolutely delighted to announce the line-up of artists, speakers, and special guests taking part in The Circle’s inaugural SISTERS event! It’s been amazing to have so many of my favourite artists answer the call to support The Circle’s mission. The fact that tickets sold out in minutes has been life-affirming—especially as I recently celebrated my 70th year on the planet! The need for action has never been greater.”

A Chance to Attend – For One Night Only

For those who missed out on tickets, there’s still hope! Thanks to a partnership with For One Night Only (FONO), a charity prize draw is offering 15 pairs of tickets to this sold-out event. Winners will also receive an exclusive invite to Annie Lennox’s soundcheck—a rare opportunity to witness a legend at work before the show.

All proceeds from the charity draw will go directly to The Circle, funding grassroots organisations that support women and girls facing violence and discrimination.

Entries close on 23 February – Don’t miss your chance! Enter now at foronenightonly.org.

The Circle’s Impact

Founded by Annie Lennox, The Circle is a unique organisation committed to standing in solidarity with women worldwide. Their work spans across countries like Afghanistan and South Sudan, tackling issues such as gender-based violence, economic insecurity, and crisis response. Over the past 15 years, The Circle has directly supported over 1.4 million people and empowered more than 700,000 women and girls.

Raakhi Shah, CEO of The Circle, highlighted the urgency of their mission:

“With over 300 million women and girls living in extreme poverty and 1 in 3 women facing violence in their lifetime, things are getting worse for many women around the world. It’s never been a more critical time to get involved.”

Named after the iconic feminist anthem “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves”, this event is a testament to the power of music, activism, and unity. As we approach International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, SISTERS: Annie Lennox and Friends is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we stand together.

NEW SHOWS ADDED IN MANCHESTER AND LONDON DUE TO DEMAND FOR LIONEL RICHIE'S SAY HELLO TO THE HITS TOUR IN 2025

Photo: Dennis Leupold

Global Icon Lionel Richie has added a further two new shows to the UK leg of his ‘Say Hello To The Hits’ 2025 tour next summer due to demand for tickets for his first arena shows in the UK since 2016.

An additional date at Manchester’s Co-op Live on Friday 13th June plus a second night at London’s The O2 on Sunday 15th June will go on sale on Friday 25th October at 10 am, alongside the other five shows announced earlier this week.

The ‘Say Hello To The Hits’ tour will see a new production, never seen before in the UK & Europe.

Known for his smooth vocals and timeless classics, the award-winning musician will embark on a series of electrifying performances, kicking off with seven arena dates across the UK before continuing into Europe for a summer of live shows. 

‘Say Hello To The Hits’ kicks off at the SSE Arena in Belfast on 31 May. Richie will then hit the stage for a string of UK tour dates, lighting up the OVO Hydro in Glasgow on 4 June, before gracing London’s iconic The O2 on 6 & 15 June. Fans can also catch him at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield on 8 June, and Utilita Arena Birmingham on 9 June, and at Manchester’s Co-op Live with two shows on the 12 & 13 June. 

Lionel Richie, a Grammy Awards®, Oscar®, and Golden Globe® winning icon, has sold over 125 million records worldwide. As one of the most celebrated figures in music history, his illustrious career spans over multiple decades, producing unforgettable anthems like ‘Hello’, ‘All Night Long’, ‘Say You Say Me’, ‘We Are The World’, ‘Easy’ and many more.

Renowned for his world-class showmanship and ability to connect with audiences across generations, Richie’s performances are a masterclass in both nostalgia and energy. His headline performance on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury 2015 drew the festival’s largest crowd of the year, cementing his place as a legendary live performer.

‘Say Hello To The Hits’ is set to be a magical tribute to Richie’s enduring legacy as one of music’s greatest songwriters and entertainers, and a true cultural icon.

Tickets will go on public sale starting Friday, 25 October at 10am BST via Ticketmaster, AXS, Alt Tickets, Gigantic and direct from each venue.