Leeds has always been a city that lives and breathes live music. Our venues aren't just buildings; they are the backdrops to some of the most defining nights of our lives.
When we asked Yorkshire Evening Post readers on our Facebook page to name the single best concert they had ever been to in the city, the response was an absolute avalanche of nostalgia.
We’ve stepped back in time to curate 21 of the most incredible, historic, and brilliantly chaotic gigs that took place right on our doorstep.
Did you manage to catch any of these legendary sets?
1. The Beatles at The Odeon (1963/1964)
Long before it closed its doors, the Odeon cinema on Headrow was the epicentre of West Yorkshire Beatlemania. For readers like Janet Gill and Linda Ainley, it was unforgettable—even if the music was a bit hard to catch. "We couldn't hear them because we were all screaming," Janet remembers. | Local Library
2. The Who at the Leeds University Refectory (1970)
Widely considered one of the greatest live rock recordings of all time, the Valentine's Night recording of Live at Leeds is holy grail territory for local gig-goers. Reader Malcolm Pogue describes it simply: "The Who, Live at Leeds in the University on Valentines night. Legend." | Local Library
3. David Bowie at the Leeds Rollarena (1973)
Originally scheduled for the university but moved to the hidden-gem Kirkstall roller rink, Bowie performed two legendary Ziggy Stardust shows in a single day. Reader Sharon Dean recalls it as a life-changing moment: "It made me want to work in the music industry - which I did! The following week he announced he was never playing Ziggy again." | Steve Riding, JPress
4. Mott the Hoople (Supported by Queen) at Leeds Town Hall (1973)
Imagine paying just 80p and getting to see both Mott the Hoople and a young, hungry support band named Queen. Reader Mick Woods recalls: "Mott the Hoople, November '73, with Queen as support band. How cool was that?" | Getty Images
5. Queen at Elland Road (1982)
Speaking of Queen, their monumental headline show at Elland Road during the Hot Space tour featured an incredible supporting bill including Joan Jett and Heart. Reader Charles Hall called it a "phenomenal, hot, awesome day." | YEP
6. The Rolling Stones at Roundhay Park (1982)
The Stones' legendary 1982 show on the Still Life tour drew massive crowds on the sunniest day of the year. Reader Paul Cockcroft shared a brilliant memory of waiting outside the Dragonara Hotel at 2 AM: "The tour manager was really kind and gave me two Access All Areas backstage passes to the gig. Great music, great memories." | YPN