We're looking back at everything Tramlines 2023 brought to Yorkshire, and everything to look forward to for the 2024 weekender.
Tramlines Festival took over Hillsborough park this weekend and wow, what a weekend it was.
Despite the dreary weather, the spirit of Sheffield shone through as thousands of festival-goers embraced the rain and the mud and partied to incredible performances over the three days.
Here's a roundup of what we got up to over the weekend...
Image: Tramlines
Friday
Kicking off the three-day-long festival, Scouse rockers Circa Waves took to the Sarah Nulty Main Stage and played a high energy set to get the party started.
Playing one indie smash hit after another before ending an incredible set with "T-shirt Weather", we knew this was just the start of a long list of spectacular live performances.
Next came one of the festival's biggest line-up clashes, with Pale Waves taking to T'Other Stage and the DMA's on the main stage.
Both gave electric performances to packed-out crowds, with Pale Waves front woman Heather Baron-Gracie proclaiming "Northerners do it better!" mid set, and we have to say that we absolutely agree.
At this point the rain was minimal and the festival buzz undeniable, festival goers were keeping the spirits high and enjoying the sights and sounds of Hillsborough Park.
Image: Tramlines
Continuing the party atmosphere at T'Other Stage was post-punk band Bloc Party, who recently supported Paramore on tour and pulled in a packed crowd of head-bobbing fans.
Friday headliner Richard Ashcroft sauntered onto the main stage in an iconic puffer jacket, bucket hat and sunglasses.
Playing a set which featured many of The Verve's hits, the obvious highlight was "Bitter Sweet Symphony" which not only rounded off a great set but a brilliant first day.
Saturday
Tramlines day number two saw a delayed entry of 30 minutes due to the severe rain overnight, but this of course did not dampen the fun.
To lighten up the mood, the Everly Pregnant Brothers sent waves of laughter to a packed out crowd on the main stage with their usual tongue-in cheek favourites.
Listed on the lineup as 'The Scottish Flies', a surprise set announcement of Mcfly sent ripples of excitement through Hillsborough Park.
Image: Tramlines
The nostalgic 4-piece pop rock band played a truly mesmerising set, making their way through their catalogue of absolute classics.
Having been a band for 20 years, their showmanship and professionalism shone through as their pitch perfect performance held the crowds full attention and had them joyfully jumping up and down in the mud.
Stockport lads Blossoms jumped straight in with indie hit "Your Girlfriend" and maintained a high level of energy throughout.
Announcing to the crowd that their very first festival was Tramlines back in 2014, Blossoms return to Hillsborough felt like a celebration of all their achievements thus far and the crowd met this statement with cheers of appreciation and awe.
If there's anyone who knows how to captivate a crowd from a single beat, it was Saturday's headliner, The Courteeners.
Image: Tramlines
Playing through a carefully selected set sprinkled with crowd pleasers, it comes as no surprise that "Not Nineteen Forever" resulted in the biggest eruption of excitement from the crowd.
It was not only a highlight of the set but perhaps of the whole weekend, a perfect ending to the second day of Tramlines which left festival-goers wanting more and ready for the next day ahead.
Sunday
As more rain poured and poured overnight, the festival's opening time was delayed once again with updates being given to music fans via the Tramlines social media pages.
Fortunately, thanks to the gargantuan hard work from the organisers they were able to open just ninety minutes later than planned.
As welly-wearing festival-goers made their way to the park, it became clear that no amount of rain was going to ruin their fun.
One of the most highly-anticipated acts of the weekend the Sugababes made it to the main stage for a truly spellbinding performance.
A sea of poncho clad music fans danced their heats out to the British girl band who proved why they themselves defined an era of 21st century pop.
Sheffield's own Reverend and the Makers delivered a historic performance which brought locals out from under shelter to show their support for Jon McClure and company.
Image: Tramlines
Followed by Yorkshire legends the Kaiser Chiefs who brought their cult classics such as "I Predict a Riot" and "Ruby".
Frontman Ricky Wilson gave a stellar performance and provided the energy needed to distract crowds from the relentless rain pouring down on Hillsborough Park.
Tramlines Festival 2023, although a wet and rainy one, was definitely one for the history books. A line-up which showcased an incredible array of British music, with an undeniable focus of Sheffield's roots and musical prowess.
But what stood out the most is the sheer spirit of the attendees who at no point let the dull weather dampen their spirits and who made the weekend such a memorable one.
Tramlines 2024
Next year's festival will take place from the 26 - 28th July 2024.
Super Early Bird tickets went on sale earlier this week at £89.50 plus booking fee which staggeringly have already sold out.
Now, weekend tickets have moved into tier two sales, priced at £120 and VIP, £175.
There's no indication of who we will see next year on the Main Stage, but given the breadth of talent near and far from Tramlines 2023, we're confident that the 2024 three-day festival will return with just as anticipation, excitement and exceptional music.
For the latest details on Tramlines Festival 2023, including the latest prices and what's on details, visit the Tramlines website.
Audio
Audio North’s Artist of the Month : Holly Rolfe | May 2026
As you're well aware by now, the North has some of this country's best artists and musicians, so much so, we are showcasing a new one to you every single month.
Meet Holly Rolfe, a Lichfield-born, Leeds-based artist who's music is cathartic, emotive with her stage presence helping create a pure-pop package.
Her singles have captivated audiences online with one song in particular, 'I'll Come Back To You', amassing over 250,000 streams.
She's also focused on uplifting fellow female musicians, something which she has made into a real initiative titled 'Women in Music Presents'.
And if you're wondering why all her outfits have varied in shades of blue when she's featured in videos on Audio North's Instagram account - she explains later on.
An interview with Holly Rolfe | Audio North's Artist of the Month: May
Meet Hilly Rolfe, Audio North's artist of the month for May / Credit: The Manc Group
How did you get into music?
I started busking at 14 after some encouragement from my Mum who was also a busker. Then I started performing at weddings and taking part in gigs.
Every family holiday we used to listen to CDs whenever we'd drive around and play Adele, Robbie Williams, specifically the live albums, Mika too.
Who were some of your musical influences growing up?
Some of my favourite musicians who's music I am inspired by are Mimi Webb and Cian Ducrot. Obviously Harry Styles and Sabrina Carpenter too.
Especially Sabrina and Mimi, I love their fun pop girl energy, I just want to channel that.
Do you want to tell us a little bit more about your recent EP?
On 24 April I released my EP Lost in the Dark (Live in Session), which is a collection of songs that I believe aren't based around streams, but instead it's a passion project.
It means so much to me and it sums up who I am as an artist, the music I want to create and my experience of being a student in Leeds.
You're also part of a group called Women in MusicPresents, please can you tell us more about this?
It's a group created during my final year of university that I made with some friends.
We wanted something that focused around the positives and challenges that being a female artist brings, while uplifting each other with no real headliners at each event, instead we all share the spotlight.
Holly alongside Women in MusicPresents line-up at The Attic in Leeds / Credit: The Manc Group
We've noticed that you like to wear a lot of blue, how come?
I've always been obsessed with blue and when I was starting to brand myself as an artist I thought this colour really compliments me.
And honestly royal blue, navy, baby blue, whatever the shade is I love it.
What are some of your career highlights so far?
My first band gig was at the Piece Hall in Halifax where I got the opportunity to support Cian Ducrot and that's where everything really kicked off.
From there I performed at The Cavern Club in Liverpool, where as well as performing, I also got the chance to admire some of pop music's greatest memorabilia.
I was able to do my debut headline at Headrow House and did another headline show at Hyde Park Book Club too.
Rolfe backstage ahead of her Piece Hall supporting slot and the singer pictured underneath The Domino Club neon sign / Credit: Supplied
What does being an artist in the North feel like for you?
Anything is possible. There's something about the North that is so welcoming and it has helped me become my true self as an artist, performing for northern crowds.
I feel so inspired by artists from here and everyone northern as they all have this determination which is so nice to see, watching people chase their dreams.
And finally now we've learnt more about you, who are some Northern artists you love and want to show off?
Lois. She's incredible and has announced a listening party for her new album later this month.
Also The Wranglers, a country group who I got the opportunity to support at their recent gig at Oporto in Leeds. They just make you want to get up and dance.
Thank you Holly for letting us learn a little bit more about your artistry, we're sure that you're on track to claiming your pop princess crown in years to come.
Featured Images - Artist supplied / The Manc Group
Audio
An exhibition celebrating 70 years of Eurovision is heading to Bradford later this month
Thomas Melia
There's a brand new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford, celebrating 70 years of Eurovision.
Kicking off on Friday 15 May at the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford this latest instalment is titled 'Setting the Stage: 70 years of the Eurovision Song Contest'.
This new exhibition is dedicated to spotlighting iconic moments that have occurred throughout the annual music event's seven decade history.
It isn't just a chance to see and learn about all things Eurovision, there's also opportunities for you to get involved as this is an interactive experience.
Anyone paying a visit to this museum in Bradford will be able to put on a performance or two with a pop-up stage as well as voting in the Nil Points Jukebox.
This new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford is celebrating 70 years of Eurovision / Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons via supplied
In true National Science and Media Museum style, this exhibition devles into the music that has formed Eurovision's legacy as well as showing off all the impressive technical innovations and advancements.
Get up close and personal with gadgets like a Shure Duraplex headset that helps artists deliver groundbreaking performances without the need of a handheld microphone.
And step back in time by observing a Marconi Mk III camera head, which was used for broadcasts during the 50's, a real revelation of its time.
There will be content from fans and professionals who have contributed to the live music show in many ways, from outfits to hosts and of course the varying performers who captivate us every single year.
The main focus of this exhibition is the evolution of technology and production throughout Eurovision Song Contest's history, however music and performance are also acknowledged too.
Officially, the Eurovision Song Contest final will take place on Saturday 16 May and this Bradford museum is hosting a 'Setting the Stage: Live' event on this very date.
Expect a big family party with live music, a silent disco and a range of engaging activities like crafts and face-painting to get you into the Eurovision spirit.
If you're interested in celebrating 70 years of Eurovision by checking out 'Setting the Stage', you can find tickets and more info HERE.
Clementine Hall -
31st July 2023 
