Looking for the best live music events in Liverpool and the city region this April and May? We’ve pulled together intimate gigs, special one-off shows, reggae legends and world-famous artists for this feature. Whether you’re into indie, folk, soul, experimental sounds or timeless classics, these ten live music events in Liverpool and the city region are well worth adding to your diary.
1. Bob Marley Reimagined by The London African Gospel Choir, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall (18 April)
The London African Gospel Choir put a powerful new spin on Bob Marley’s most iconic songs with Bob Marley Reimagined, blending reggae rhythms with gospel harmonies and soaring vocals. Following their acclaimed Graceland show, this uplifting performance brings fresh energy, soul and a celebratory spirit to Marley’s timeless music.
2. Julian Taylor with Special Guest Michele Stodart, Liverpool Music Room (22 April)
Canadian singer-songwriter Julian Taylor brings his soulful mix of Americana, folk rock and alt-country to Liverpool, joined by special guest Michele Stodart of The Magic Numbers. This intimate show pairs heartfelt songwriting with rich harmonies, as two standout artists share the stage for a memorable night of live music.
3. The Orchestra (For Now), Future Yard (23 April)
London prog rock outfit The Orchestra (For Now) bring their bold sound to Future Yard. They manage to combine avant-garde rock theatrics, intricate classical interplay, pastoral baroque indie, post-hardcore dynamics, jazz-tinted freakouts, and everything in between. With plenty of buzz around them and a reputation for brilliant live shows, this is a great chance to catch one of the UK’s most exciting rising bands.
4. VG&M Late: A Music Celebration, Victoria Gallery & Museum (30 April)
Celebrate the sounds and stories of Liverpool 8 at this special late opening at VG&M, where you can explore the Toxteth: The Harlem of Europe exhibition after-hours. There will be DJ sets from Kerri Ankrah-Lucas (Decks in the City) and a record fair, while Liverpool 8 legend Ramon “Sugar” Deen shares stories from the city’s music scene. Explore archive vinyl with the Institute of Popular Music, catch a talk from Dr Mike Brocken on jazz pioneer Gordon Stretton for International Jazz Day, and enjoy performances from University music students across eras and genres. It’s free to attend and you can reserve your spot now.
5. The Adam Buxton Band, The Tung Auditorium (1 May)
Adam Buxton hits the stage with his live band for an intimate evening celebrating his debut album Buckle Up. Produced by Joe Mount of Metronomy, Buxton said: “I hoped it would be a Metronomy record with my voice”. Instead came fifteen songs that inhabit the space between heartfelt and silly, where Buxton has comfortably set up shop.
6. Travellers Tunes: An Evening With Steve Cradock, The Atkinson (6 May)
Steve Cradock, guitarist for Ocean Colour Scene and longtime collaborator with Paul Weller, takes the stage for a night of classic Britpop and beyond. Hear iconic Ocean Colour Scene tracks like The Riverboat Song and Hundred Mile High, alongside Cradock’s solo material, in an intimate evening celebrating his 30 years in British rock.
7. Paul Simon, M&S Bank Arena (7 May)
Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Simon brings his A Quiet Celebration Tour to Liverpool for one night only. The evening features a full performance of his Grammy-nominated suite Seven Psalms, followed by reimagined versions of his classic hits, all delivered with a world-class band for a rare, intimate experience.
8. Löwenzahnhonig, Future Yard (10 May)
Swiss band Löwenzahnhonig blend psychedelic pop, mellow funk, indie rock and ambient sounds into relaxed, groove-led music. Fresh from their second album Kirschblütenboogie, they bring spacious, melodic tunes and extended live jams that let each song stretch and evolve.
9. The Congos, Future Yard (24 May)
Influential Jamaican group The Congos bring their signature roots reggae sound to Future Yard this May. Best known for their classic album Heart of the Congos, their live shows blend rich harmonies, deep rhythms and an uplifting spiritual energy that has defined their music since the 1970s.
10. Bowie Experience, Liverpool Empire (30 May)
From London’s West End, Bowie Experience celebrates the music and legacy of David Bowie with a spectacular live show. Featuring all the hits from across Bowie’s iconic career, it’s a must for fans looking to relive the sound and style of a true music legend.
To discover more live music events in Liverpool and the city region, plus a whole range of arts and culture events from across the Liverpool city region, check out our What’s On Listings.