On the 6th Day God Created. Manchester
The Best 25 Songs from Manchester
In this post, I’ll take you through what I think are the best 25 songs from this great city.
This list is in no particular order, the numbers don’t carry any significance. Expect a mix of classics, shoe-ins, and hidden gems.
Also, for the purpose of this list: Stockport is Greater Manchester, not Cheshire!
So in no particular order.
1. The Smiths- How Soon Is Now.
Released as a 1984 B-side, this hypnotic masterpiece centers around Johnny Marr’s iconic guitar work. The song feels futuristic, like it’s from a dystopian universe. It’s The Smiths at their peak. It's probably my favourite by the band, it's one of the most unique guitar sounds ever put on record. A timeless piece of British guitar pop.
2. The Stone Roses – Waterfall
From their legendary debut album, Waterfall is a psychedelic indie classic. It’s the track that introduced me to The Stone Roses and began my journey into their world. One of the most psychedelic songs on this list it's still one of my favourite pieces of music. Vibrant and dreamlike, it's still a brilliant song.
3. Oasis- Slide Away
The best Oasis song, bar none. A raw emotional love song that talks through every stage of a relationship. Sung by a man who means every single word. It's a song that conquers all, written, recorded and sung by a band who were about to conquer the world. This is still some of Noel's best work.
4. Joy Division- Transmission
This electrifying track captures the essence of Joy Division’s raw post-punk energy. With its pulsating rhythm and Ian Curtis’ commanding vocals, Transmission became an anthem for a generation. Its influence on Manchester’s music scene, and on the Madchester movement, cannot be overstated. This song marked the beginning of Manchester being one of the most important musical cities in the world.
5. The Chameleons- Swamp Thing
A hidden gem in Manchester’s musical history, Swamp Thing features haunting vocals and an industrial edge to its instrumentation. The song’s sprawling, atmospheric sound and anthemic quality influenced countless Manchester bands. It’s a song that deserves far more recognition than it gets by a band that also doesn't get the credit they deserve.
6. New Order- Blue Monday
Released in 1983, just 3 years after the death of Ian Curtis. Blue Monday became a landmark release, becoming the biggest-selling 12-inch single of all time. The track’s ground breaking blend of electronic dance music and rock elements influenced countless artists and marked the beginning of a new era in music production. It also marked a new beginning for New Order, they had left Joy Division behind them and were forging a new path.
7. 808 State- Pacific State
This 1989 classic brought the sound of Acid House to the mainstream. Its lush saxophone melody and atmospheric production captured the euphoric essence of Manchester’s club scene. Pacific State became a defining track for both 808 State and the late-80s dance revolution. A firm favourite the the Hacienda and arguably Britain's first Acid House song.
8. Happy Mondays- Kinky Afro.
With its funky groove, witty lyrics, and Shaun Ryder’s distinctive drawl, Kinky Afro blends indie, funk, and dance in a way only the Mondays could pull off. The track helped cement the band’s status as central figures in the Madchester scene, perfectly encapsulating the carefree, hedonistic vibe of the era. Its infectious beat and unforgettable opening line, “Son, I’m thirty / I only went with your mother ‘cause she’s dirty,” ensure it remains one of the band’s most iconic tracks.
9. Buzzcocks – Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone)
A timeless punk-pop anthem, Ever Fallen in Love pairs raw energy with heartfelt lyrics about unrequited love. Its catchy melody and emotional resonance made it an instant classic, helping define the post-punk genre in the late 1970s. Pete Shelley’s poignant lyrics, coupled with his emotive delivery, capture the vulnerability and yearning of a love unreturned. The song’s driving rhythm and jangly guitar riffs inject a sense of urgency and intensity, creating a perfect balance between punk’s rebellious spirit and the vulnerability of pop. As one of the most influential tracks in the punk and post-punk movements, Ever Fallen in Love continues to resonate with listeners for its emotional depth and universal themes of love and heartache. One of the most underrated songs to come from the great city of Manchester
10. James – Sit Down
Few songs can bring people together like Sit Down. With its soaring chorus and heartfelt lyrics, this 1991 anthem became a unifying chant at gigs and beyond, capturing the spirit of camaraderie and togetherness. Its uplifting energy is a testament to James’ talent for creating music that connects deeply with listeners.
11. Blossoms – Charlemagne
A more recent addition to Manchester’s musical canon, Charlemagne is a synth-pop masterpiece with an infectious chorus and retro-inspired production. Blossoms’ knack for crafting catchy, feel-good tunes is on full display here, earning them a spot among Manchester’s finest. With it's nod to the fictional king and a chorus that propelled the band to thousands. This is one of the best songs to come from the city in recent memory.
12. Joy Division – Love Will Tear Us Apart
This iconic track is Manchester’s unofficial anthem. Ian Curtis’ haunting lyrics about fractured relationships, combined with the driving bassline and melancholy melody, create a song that transcends its time. It’s both a personal lament and a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the emotional depth and creative brilliance of Joy Division. Released in 1980, the song’s poignant exploration of love and despair resonates just as powerfully today, making it a timeless masterpiece. Its haunting refrain and Curtis’ deeply affecting delivery ensure it remains etched in the hearts of listeners, while its influence can be felt across decades of music that followed.
13. Oasis – Don’t Look Back in Anger
A song of defiance and unity, Don’t Look Back in Anger became a unifying anthem, especially after the Manchester Arena attack in 2017. Noel Gallagher’s heartfelt lyrics and instantly memorable chorus have made it one of the most beloved songs of all time. The song has become almost like a hymn for the people of the city, and the UK.
14 The Stone Roses – I Am the Resurrection
This 8-minute epic showcases the full range of The Stone Roses’ talents, from Reni’s intricate drumming to John Squire’s soaring guitar solo. It’s a euphoric track that perfectly blends indie rock with danceable grooves, making it a cornerstone of Manchester’s music history. The song transitions seamlessly from a melodic, sing-along first half into an explosive instrumental outro that allows each band member to shine. Mani’s pulsating bassline anchors the track, while Ian Brown’s defiant lyrics and charismatic delivery add an anthemic quality. A true masterpiece, I Am the Resurrection encapsulates the spirit of a generation and remains a defining moment in the band’s legacy.
15. The Verve – Bittersweet Symphony
A string-laden masterpiece, Bittersweet Symphony captures the tension between hope and despair. Its monumental sound, combined with Richard Ashcroft’s poignant lyrics, makes it one of the most iconic tracks of the 1990s. The song was a bittersweet moment for The Verve and led to one of the most infamous legal battles in music history. The Verve had obtained permission to use a portion of the Rolling Stones’ orchestral recording, but after the song’s release, the band was sued by Allen Klein, the Rolling Stones’ former manager, who claimed that The Verve had used "too much" of the sample. As a result, all royalties and songwriting credits were handed over to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. In 2019, a surprising turn of events occurred. Jagger and Richards returned the rights of "Bittersweet Symphony" to Ashcroft, acknowledging that the song was his creation.
16. Elbow – One Day Like This
This uplifting anthem is a celebration of life’s most beautiful moments. With its orchestral arrangement and Guy Garvey’s heartfelt lyrics, One Day Like This is a modern classic that never fails to lift spirits. The song’s soaring strings and anthemic chorus create a euphoric atmosphere, making it a staple at festivals, weddings, and emotional life events. Garvey’s warm, soulful vocals invite listeners to pause and appreciate the joy and beauty around them, while the climactic repetition of “Throw those curtains wide” feels like an open call to embrace life with optimism and gratitude. It’s not just a song—it’s an emotional experience that leaves a lasting impression.
17. New Order – Ceremony
Written in the aftermath of Joy Division’s dissolution, Ceremony represents both an ending and a new beginning. Its driving rhythm and emotional intensity set the tone for New Order’s future success, bridging the raw, emotive sound of Joy Division with the more electronic direction the band would later explore. Bernard Sumner’s yearning vocals, paired with Peter Hook’s distinctive bassline, carry an emotional weight that reflects the grief and uncertainty following Ian Curtis’ passing. The track’s hypnotic guitar riff and urgent percussion create a sense of both melancholy and hope, symbolizing the band’s resilience and evolution. Ceremony is not only a tribute to what came before but also a declaration of what was yet to come.
18. The Smiths – There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
This melancholic yet beautiful track perfectly encapsulates The Smiths’ ability to combine dark lyrics with an uplifting melody. Its emotional depth and timeless appeal have made it one of their most beloved songs. Morrissey’s wistful lyrics, detailing longing, escapism, and the fear of unfulfilled love, resonate deeply with listeners, while Johnny Marr’s shimmering guitar work creates a hauntingly beautiful soundscape. The track’s evocative imagery. "To die by your side is such a heavenly way to die" balances tragedy with romanticism, leaving an indelible mark on fans across generations. A quintessential example of The Smiths’ genius, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out is as poignant today as it was upon release.
19. Courteeners – Not Nineteen Forever
A raucous, anthemic track that captures the recklessness of youth. Its relatable lyrics and sing-along chorus make it a staple of indie playlists and a defining moment in The Courteeners’ career. One of the defining songs of my teenage years. A song that has sound tracked many of the most important moments in my life.
Hearing this song live sends shivers down my spine every time. I remember when Blossoms used to play it before stepping on stage—it would light up the room, getting everyone bouncing even before the band appeared. Some of my best nights at uni were soundtracked by this song, whether in my halls' kitchen, at Shit Indie Disco, or dancing at Heebie Jeebies.
This song fills me with happiness, and the memories attached to it are ones I'll hold onto forever. It brings back the faces of certain people I’ve shared those moments with, reminding me of the power music has to transport us back in time. It takes me back to a time that has since passed and to a person who is no longer with us, making it even more special
20. Inspiral Carpets – This Is How It Feels
A poignant song about the struggles of daily life, This Is How It Feels blends synth-pop with introspective lyrics, creating a track that resonates deeply with listeners. The song’s haunting organ riff and steady rhythm provide a melancholic yet captivating backdrop to lyrics that touch on themes of loneliness, financial strain, and emotional disconnect. Tom Hingley’s plaintive vocals deliver the lines with a raw sincerity, making the song feel intensely personal yet universally relatable. Its unassuming brilliance and relatable storytelling solidified Inspiral Carpets’ place in the Manchester music scene, with this track standing as one of their most enduring and cherished anthems.
21. Happy Mondays – 24 Hour Party People
A song that perfectly encapsulates the Madchester era, 24 Hour Party People is a witty, energetic ode to Manchester’s legendary party scene. Shaun Ryder’s playful lyrics capture the wild, hedonistic energy of the time, while the band’s signature fusion of indie rock, funk, and dance beats brings the vibe of the Hacienda directly to the listener. The track’s infectious rhythm and carefree spirit make it a celebration of the city’s cultural renaissance, where music, art, and nightlife collided to create something extraordinary. As the namesake of the iconic film about Manchester’s music culture, 24 Hour Party People has become a defining anthem of an unforgettable era.
22. The Smiths – This Charming Man
With its iconic riff and Morrissey’s playful lyrics, This Charming Man is the song that launched The Smiths into the indie spotlight. Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar work, inspired by 1960s pop, is instantly recognizable and remains one of the most celebrated riffs in music history. Morrissey’s witty, enigmatic lyrics about romance, desire, and awkward encounters gave the song a unique charm, capturing the essence of the band’s ability to pair lighthearted melodies with sharp, literate storytelling. Released in 1983, it became a rallying cry for a generation of misfits and romantics, cementing The Smiths’ status as trailblazers in British indie music. Even today, This Charming Man continues to resonate with new listeners, retaining its freshness and timeless appeal.
23. Oasis – Live Forever
A defining moment in Oasis’ rise to fame, Live Forever combines Noel Gallagher’s optimistic lyrics with Liam’s powerful vocals. It’s an enduring anthem of hope and resilience. Released as the third single from "Definitely Maybe", "Live Forever" proved Oasis to be more than a flash in the pan indie band. The band had crafted a cultural anthem, a song that showcased unshakeable ambition, youthful idealism, and raw talent that would soon catapult the Manchester-based band into Britpop stardom. Over the years, "Live Forever" has grown into more than just a song it's an emotional landmark that captures the spirit of a generation.
24. The Chemical Brothers – Setting Sun
A collaboration between The Chemical Brothers and Noel Gallagher, Setting Sun is a psychedelic trip that captures the spirit of 90s electronic music. With its hypnotic beats, distorted vocals, and chaotic energy, the track embodies the boundary-pushing ethos of the era. The song’s pulsating rhythm and relentless intensity create an almost hallucinogenic experience, blending rock and electronic music in a way that feels revolutionary. Gallagher’s raw vocal delivery adds a human edge to the track, while the layered production highlights The Chemical Brothers’ mastery of sound. Setting Sun not only became a chart-topping hit but also a defining moment in the evolution of electronic music.
25. The Stone Roses – She Bangs the Drums
A joyous celebration of youth and music, She Bangs the Drums is a standout track from one of the most influential albums of all time. Its jangly guitars and infectious energy make it an enduring Manchester classic. Ian Brown’s evocative lyrics capture the excitement of discovering music that moves you, while John Squire’s melodic guitar riffs shine with vibrancy and creativity. Mani’s groove-laden bassline and Reni’s intricate drumming provide the perfect foundation, resulting in a track that feels both timeless and euphoric. As an anthem of youthful exuberance and creative freedom, She Bangs the Drums remains a cornerstone of the Madchester era and a song that continues to inspire generations.
Honourable Mentions
The Mock Turtles – Can You Dig It
A one-hit wonder with a catchy chorus and an underrated guitar solo, Can You Dig It perfectly encapsulates the optimism and energy of early 90s indie rock. The infectious melody and feel-good vibe made it a festival favorite, and the track remains a nostalgic nod to the era’s carefree spirit. Its guitar work, often overlooked, adds a surprising depth, showcasing The Mock Turtles’ musicianship beyond their brief moment in the spotlight.
A Guy Called Gerald – Voodoo Ray
A Hacienda classic and one of Manchester’s first house tracks, Voodoo Ray brought the sounds of acid house into mainstream consciousness. Its hypnotic beats, soulful samples, and minimalist production set it apart as a groundbreaking track in the UK’s burgeoning dance scene. A Guy Called Gerald captured the essence of late-night warehouse raves, crafting a song that still feels innovative decades later. Voodoo Ray is not just a tune; it’s a cornerstone of Manchester’s electronic music legacy.
Electronic – Getting Away With It
Bernard Sumner and Johnny Marr’s supergroup debut, Getting Away With It, is a synth-pop gem that seamlessly blends their unique talents. With Neil Tennant of Pet Shop Boys contributing vocals, the track boasts lush instrumentation and a polished production that reflects the best of 80s and early 90s electronic pop. Its bittersweet lyrics and sophisticated sound marked a bold new chapter for both artists, proving that their collaboration could create something truly special.