Manchester is the dream city for many regarding the potential that can be unlocked, as well as the opportunities that the city brings for people in all kinds of different industries. Often referred to as the London of the north, the city has produced numerous notable figures, including footballers like David Beckham, magicians such as Dynamo, and some of the world’s most renowned musical exports. Manchester’s association with the music culture within the UK is huge, putting British sounds on a world stage. The influence the city has had on music, not just in England, but worldwide, is incredible to see.
So today, the home of Lottomart slots will be taking a look at some of the finest musical exports from Manchester of all time.
Oasis
It couldn’t be a list of the best musical exports from Manchester if Oasis wasn’t featured. One of the biggest bands in the world, and most definitely the biggest to have come from the UK, Oasis was formed in 1991 by brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher. The two shared world dominance in the music industry during the 90s, touring around the world. Some of their biggest hits are still played today, such as ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’, ‘Wonderwall’, and ‘Live Forever’. However, the band ended in 2009, still during an extremely successful period and world tour, as a result of a backstage argument between the two brothers, leaving them to never speak again for over 16 years. In 2025, it was announced that Oasis was going back on tour around the world in a reunion, bringing the hype back surrounding the name, as well as people getting their songs back on the charts over 30 years after they had formed.
The Smiths
Maybe not as globally successful as Oasis, The Smiths are a huge name in the UK music scene with plenty of recognisable hits produced in the 80s. The more monotone and serious lyrics have built an audience and a strong culture surrounding the group, led by Steven Patrick Morrissey. Beginning in a poorer, working class area of Manchester, the main goal was to combine the power of music with sharing their struggles and thoughts after being brought up in a less fortunate environment. Despite having a loyal audience and inspiring the UK indie scene, the Smiths never managed to reach a UK number one, and ended only 5 years after they formed in 1987. Some of their top songs include ‘Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now’, ‘There is a Light That Never Goes Out’ and ‘This Charming Man’. The Smiths had a significant impact on shaping music throughout the 80s and inspired many other bands that followed, with many of their songs still being played frequently today.
The Stone Roses
Formed in 1983 in Manchester, The Stone Roses have become an international name, shaping the way that UK music is today. They were a key figure behind the explosion of the ‘Madchester’ era, dominating alongside the likes of Oasis. The rock band took heavy inspiration from 60s rock, bringing it back into the 80s music mix. It shaped how bands would perform and write music, with a heavy focus on melodic guitar lines. Not only that, but The Stone Roses had a huge impact on culture, with fashion and lifestyles centring around the band, something that was mentioned in recent years in their collaboration with Adidas and Manchester United. The band came to a close in 1996 after behind the scenes tensions and management issues, but they would later reform in 2011 to perform a series of shows, not releasing any music. A cryptic message in 2017 from one of the band members signified the end of the group for good, but their music and culture still shine through in 2025.
Blossoms
Although there are many more popular and talented musicians who have come out of the city, Blossoms are featured on this list as a relatively new band that is still somewhat emerging. In the modern era, many older music genres are still popular, with artists like Oasis, Blur, and The Smiths still receiving airplay. The Blossoms have combined this style of indie rock with modern elements, making their sound unique to this generation. Their first studio album was released in 2016, and flew straight to the UK’s number 1, signifying their popularity from their breakthrough year. Some of their more recognisable titles include ‘Charlemagne’, ‘Your Girlfriend’, and ‘Gary’. As of 2025, the band is still gaining new audiences and attracting new fans around the world, becoming the biggest musical influence that has come from Stockport.
To Conclude…
Manchester is arguably the home of music in the UK, producing some of the biggest talents and building worldwide stars. Whether it is down to the culture of Manchester, the history lying deep within it, or the facilities available, it is a hub for creativity that looks as though it will produce plenty of talent for years to come.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
