Music, Variety and Victory from Manchester’s Biggest Night Last Saturday with Ricky Hatton

Amelia Ryder | 16th June 2015

It was a night of music, variety, and victory as Ricky Hatton invited Manchester to join him in celebrating the 10th anniversary of his momentous Vegas win.

The evening was a personal one and succeeding in bringing Hatton and his fans together. Ricky happily had his picture taken with fans at the bar, while the impressive line-up offered continuous entertainment from start to finish.

The Hitman’s Vegas party took place at the vast Victoria Warehouse. Proceeds went towards two special charities. Barnabus is a Manchester based homeless charity which offers a vital lifeline to 600 homeless and vulnerable people weekly. Genesis Breast Cancer Prevention, also locally based, is the only UK charity dedicated entirely to predicting and preventing breast cancer.

The special night’s line-up featured a variety of DJ’s, tribute bands and Manchester greats. Our very own Viva Ems did us proud with an ace DJ set in The House Room. Vince Vega was on hand to introduce the bands and DJ between sets. The fabulous Rowetta then joined Viva Ems to bless The House Room with her beautifully superhuman vocals.

The exciting list of tribute acts included The Oasis Experience, Happy Mondaze and The Complete Stone Roses. Each band did a brilliant job of impersonating their respective greats. Classic tunes performed live added a hint of nostalgia to the party.

Up and coming Manchester band The Backhanders impressed with an acoustic set. The legendary Northside then hyped up the crowd with their upbeat aura, frontman Dermo looking as cool as ever.

To top the night off, headliners Black Grape relit the party vibe with a bouncing late-night set. Mr Ryder and his clan were on top form and blasted out a set filled with classics such as ‘Reverend Black Grape’ and ‘In the Name of the Father’. They were the act many had been most excited for, and they delivered impeccably.

Ryder is looking and sounding better then ever, his timeless lyrical abilities spilling out of the set throughout.

Kermit gave the crowd a boost with his vibrant presence and powerful voice. Their combined charisma is dynamic and addictive.

Black grape were followed by a DJ set from Bez, which featured oldest son Arlo. Hyped up fans partied into the small hours, and left the venue buzzing.

The night was a huge success, in aid of two dedicated causes. The winning line-up combined some of the best talent in Manchester. Our very own former champion of the world put on a truly victorious party.