Mr Manchester: The Man the City Can’t Forget

Today marks the anniversary of one of Manchester’s most significant losses. Anthony H. Wilson (20 February 1950 – 10 August 2007) passed away eight years ago today. He was an irreplaceable figure whose influence still reigns over the city.

Tony was the founder of revolutionary record label Factory Records and launched the careers of legendary Manchester bands such as New Order and Happy Mondays. He was a talented broadcaster and a central personality in the Madchester movement.

Dubbed ‘Mr Manchester’, his influence was as immeasurable as the love the city had for him. The love he had for the city in return was mutually boundless.

Tony catapulted Manchester onto the world stage of music and culture. He put the city on the map with world famous night club The Haçienda and gave life-changing opportunities to the cities most respected musicians.

There has been nobody else like Tony, and there never will be. He worked in a way which made him unforgettable. He isn’t just a memory, he lives on throughout the city. He lives on in the scene he created and in the music which saturated the unparalleled movement.

Tony changed the face of the Manchester music scene forever, he’ll never be forgotten.

This Friday will mark the release of St Anthony: An Ode to Anthony H Wilson. The single, written by Manchester poet Mike Garry, is a touching  tribute to the Factory legend. The launch party will take place at Old Granada Studios.

The event will feature a live performance of the single, special guest DJ’s and an exclusive screening of footage featuring Shaun Ryder, Steve Coogan, New Order, Iggy Pop, Peter Saville and Christopher Eccleston. It promises to be a night as memorable as Mr Manchester himself.

All proceeds from both the event and single will go towards The Christie Charitable Fund. Ticket information can be found at www.stanthony.tickets.