OneRepublic turned Manchester’s Co-op Live into a cosmic wonderland on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, with their Escape to Europe 2025 Tour, leaving 23,500 fans buzzing with pure joy. T
he night kicked off at 7:35 PM with Ella Henderson, whose soulful voice soared through hits like “Ghost,” “21 Reasons,” and “Alibi,” her energy lighting up the arena like a warm-up act from the heavens. Her set was the perfect spark, getting the crowd hyped for the main event.
At 8:45 PM, OneRepublic hit the stage, unleashing a two hour spectacle that felt like Manchester’s heartbeat was pulsing through every note. They opened with Oasis’s “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” a love letter to the city’s musical soul, and the crowd erupted, singing every word in a unified roar that gave goosebumps. It was like the entire arena was wrapped in a warm, Mancunian hug, setting the tone for a night of connection.
The setlist was a masterful journey, weaving iconic anthems with fresh tracks from their 2024 album Artificial Paradise. “Counting Stars”, had the arena bouncing, its infectious rhythm sparking a sea of swaying phones and clapping hands. “Apologize,” the 7-million-selling juggernaut, brought a hush, its haunting melody stirring raw emotion as fans joined in, creating a cathedral of sound. Newer gems like “RUNAWAY” and “I Don’t Wanna Wait” shimmered with summery, danceable energy, their pulsing beats turning the Co-op Live into a cosmic getaway.
“Lose Somebody” hit like a gut punch, its tender lyrics and soaring chorus pulling heartstrings, while “I Lived” lifted spirits with its triumphant call to seize the moment, fans shouting the lyrics back with teary eyed passion. “Good Life,” spiked with a dreamy M83 interpolation, transformed the arena into a dancefloor, with fans of all ages grooving under swirling lights. “I Ain’t Worried” kept the party going, its carefree vibe perfect for a midweek escape that felt like a mini-vacation.
The band’s showmanship was electric, conducting the crowd like a symphony, echoing their 2022 Hammersmith gig where they coaxed rowdy fans into harmony. Moments like the stripped-down bridge of “Someday” felt intimate, while “Love Runs Out” had the crowd jumping in unison, the arena shaking with energy. The production was a feast for the senses—starry backdrops for “West Coast,” fiery hues for “Wherever I Go,” and dazzling lights amplifying every emotional peak. No fan photos or videos have popped up yet—everyone was too lost in the moment, living every second of the magic.
This Manchester night was anything but predictable. It was a rollercoaster of nostalgia, euphoria, and connection that felt deeply personal, like a night crafted just for the city. The crowd left with hoarse voices and full hearts, already craving more. OneRepublic proved they’re pop-rock royalty, delivering a show that was both a love letter to their fans and a celebration of Manchester’s unbreakable spirit.
Photo Copyright © Gary Mather
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