Gracie Abrams (Manchester Co-Op Live)
There’s something truly special about watching someone see their favorite artist live, and last night, that was my sister, Ella. Gracie Abrams is her artist—the one whose lyrics she knows inside out, whose music means the world to her. My other sister was supposed to take her, but when she couldn’t make it, I stepped in. And let’s be honest—would I ever turn down a gig? Absolutely not.
This wasn’t just any gig either; we got the full VIP experience in one of Co-Op Live’s private boxes. It felt like we were at someone’s house having pre-drinks in the inside of that box, except instead of stepping into a garden, we walked out to 25,000 fans losing their minds over Gracie Abrams, bows in hair, with an utter devotion to her music. And let me tell you—Gracie sounded incredible.
She’s not a pop star with huge choreography and elaborate sets, but that’s part of the magic. It was just her, her band, and a sea of fans who bellowed every word right back at her. This was especially true when it came to the bridges—if you’ve ever been to a Taylor Swift or Gracie Abrams show, you’ll know exactly what I mean. The volume cranked up to a whole new level, and the sheer passion in the room was unreal.
Gracie was visibly grateful, taking in the fact that she’d just sold out a massive arena after playing much smaller venues in the UK not too long ago. And honestly, she deserves it. Sure, some of her songs do sound similar, but if you’ve nailed a recipe, why change it? The set never felt repetitive—it was just pure, heartfelt music from start to finish.
One thing that did take me by surprise? The chaos in the crowd. The number of people passing out was unreal, keeping security busier than they probably are at much heavier gigs. And then there were the moshpits—yes, moshpits at a Gracie Abrams show. And you know what? I absolutely loved it. I always see people online slating moshpits at indie gigs, saying they don’t belong, but honestly? If people want to jump around and create a moment, I’m here for it. It was just another example of how much energy and passion filled that room.
It’s safe to say every single person there loved every second of that show, and that feeling was infectious. Gracie Abrams proved last night that she’s got the talent, the fanbase, and the presence to own a stage as big as Co-Op Live. And I, for one, am buzzing to see where she goes next. I have the pleasure of seeing her at Glastonbury this summer and I will be there ready to scream those bridges with the rest of them!