It would be safe to say that the North West of England has, and still is, a hotbed of innovation and talent when it comes to the world of music.
From leaders of the Britpop movement, Oasis, through to the band that laid down the foundations for pop bands in the future, The Beatles, there is plenty to celebrate when it comes to musical influences around the region - but we’ve only picked 25 to save you a few hours.
Be it spoken-word poets, teeny-bopper boy bands or the hedonistic Madchester music scene, here’s our picks of 25 acts from the North West region that helped define musical genres going forwards, based on cultural relevancy, influence and their everlasting appeal across future generations of musicians.
21. Happy Mondays (Salford/Manchester)
Known for their psychedelic rock fused with dance music, Happy Mondays were at the heart of the 'Madchester' movement. Their raucous mix of indie, funk, and rave music broke new ground in the late '80s, while their experimental, carefree approach to music and live performances captured the spirit of the times, influencing future generations of artists in rock, dance, and pop. | Universal Images Group via Getty
22. Elbow (Bury)
Elbow’s cinematic, expansive sound helped define the indie rock landscape of the 2000s. Known for their heartfelt lyrics, the band’s music often tackles personal introspection and emotional depth, with albums like The Seldom Seen Kid winning critical acclaim. Their innovative use of orchestration, coupled with frontman Guy Garvey’s soulful voice, has earned them a place among the most influential British rock bands of the 21st century. | Getty Images
23. James (Manchester)
Known for their alternative rock sound and evocative lyrics, James’ hits like Sit Down and Laid became anthems of the '90s, helping define the indie rock sound of the era. Their innovative approach to rock music, blending folk, electronic, and indie elements, made them a mainstay in the British music scene. | Getty Images
24. Doves (Cheshire/Manchester)
With their cinematic and atmospheric sound, Doves created a unique brand of alternative rock that resonated with fans of emotive and experimental music. Their music has been described as both cathartic and expansive, influencing numerous alt-rock and indie bands. | Getty Images