Turn It Up: Live music & gigs in Wolverhampton this autumn

An unmissable season of live music gigs, from folk legends to synth rockers and indie icons in Wolverhampton. Book early, brag later.

With an incredible line-up of live music spanning genres, generations, and glorious good vibes, autumn 2025 is shaping up to be something truly special.

We kick things off with an unforgettable jazz evening on 29 August as saxophone trailblazer and Winner of the 2018 BBC Young Jazz Musician of the year,Xhosa Cole presents FreeMonk, an open-hearted homage to the genius of Thelonious Monk. Expect intricate rhythms, stripped-back interpretations, and some mind-blowing improvisation, plus a DJ set from Stewart Kendrick. With support from young rising stars Josh Vadiveloo and Tim Giles, this is jazz for now, with deep roots and bold visions.

On 5 September, Ivor Novello Award-winning songwriter and Squeeze co-founder Chris Difford takes us on a lyrical journey in his solo show Not Only… But Also. With charming storytelling, unforgettable songs from the Squeeze catalogue and his solo career, plus new material written with Boo Hewerdine, Chris will be joined by pedal steel virtuoso Melvin Duffy for a night that promises warmth, wit and musical gold.

On 6 September, we welcome Nearly Dan, the UK’s finest Steely Dan tribute band — though “tribute” barely does them justice. This isn’t just a greatest hits package; it’s a full-bodied celebration of the genius grooves and sophisticated songwriting of Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. Expect everything from the hits (Reelin’ In the Years, Do It Again) to deep cuts and fan favourites, all performed with laid-back precision and a knowing wink.

From Ramsay Street to Americana On 10 September aswe welcome Alan Fletcher, aka Dr Karl Kennedy from Neighbours, back to the UK for his Back to School album tour. A night of heartfelt Americana, dry humour and good vibes is guaranteed, with support from the brilliant Riley Catherall.

Blondie Fans, Rejoice! On 12 September, the brilliant Blondish bring their outstanding tribute to the music of Blondie to life. With a setlist that spans the hits (Heart of Glass, Atomic, Call Me, Dreaming) and a performance that captures the band’s unique sound and energy, this is a must for anyone who wants to relive the magic of late ’70s New York.

The next night, on 13 September, folk legend Martin Simpson graces our theatre stage and kicks of the autumn folk season. Known as one of the world’s finest acoustic and slide guitar players, Martin’s emotionally charged performances and storytelling prowess make this an essential stop for lovers of roots music.

Prog Perfection with StillMarillion On 4 October, StillMarillion perform Misplaced Childhood in its entirety, a landmark moment in neo-prog rock recreated with reverent energy. Featuring Martin Jakubski on vocals, this show is pure nostalgia with spine-tingling power.

A Songwriter’s Songwriter John Smith lands on 21 October. With over 100 million Spotify streams, a back catalogue of rich folk storytelling, and a voice that feels like home, this is an intimate gig that will stay with you long after the last chord fades.

The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican Woolly jumpers and wild satire hit the stage on 25 October. If you know, you know…and if you don’t, it’s time to find out. Irreverent, hilarious, and full of catchy bangers like The Lady in Greggs, this cult comedy-folk outfit never fails to bring the house down.

Leeds’ finest Cud make a long-awaited return on 30 October, joined by Mighty Mighty, with a night of indie-pop brilliance and funk-fuelled fun. Expect a party, pure and simple.

We roll into November dancing, as The Croupiers make their debut on 1 November. It’s rare and classic Northern Soul, played live by a powerhouse ten-piece band…think stomping four-to-the-floor grooves and tracks you’ve never heard done this way before.

Synth Rock & Goth Pop with The Birthday Massacre Things get darker on 6 November with the long-awaited UK return of Canadian synth rockers The Birthday Massacre, bringing their retro-futurist sound and visual flair to Wolverhampton with special guests Lesbian Bed Death.

Classic Rock with Kingdom of Madness On 5 December, former members of Magnum bring their ‘In the Beginning’ tour to our stage. This is a night for classic rock fans, celebrating the iconic sound of Magnum’s golden years with jaw-dropping musicianship.

13 December sees a magical seasonal folk evening with the stunning Winter Wonderband. Featuring Saul Rose, Maclaine Colston, Beth Porter and Jennifer Crook, their mix of melodeon, dulcimer, cello and harp is utterly unique, perfect for the cosy nights ahead.

We end our jazz programme on 18 December with the dream pairing of Mark Lockheart and John Parricelli. These Loose Tubes veterans bring deep musicianship, free-flowing creativity and telepathic interplay. It’s the perfect endnote to a stunning jazz season.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and we’re already lining up brilliance. The Bollywood Bratpack light up the stage on 31 January, fusing Bollywood classics with jazz swagger. And don’t miss Voodoo Room on 13 March: a powerhouse trio bringing the music of Hendrix, Clapton and Cream to thunderous life.

And of course, we just dropped the news that legendary Gruff Rhys is coming to Wolverhampton on 7 September. It’s going to be unforgettable season of live music gigs at the arts centre. Book your tickets now, because autumn’s sounding amazing already!