St George’s Hall in Bradford is set to host a musical event that’s already generating excitement across the city. On Tuesday, October 7, 2025, acclaimed singer-songwriter John Grant will take the stage for his very first headline show in Bradford, marking a significant moment in the city’s ongoing City of Culture celebrations. For fans of Grant’s distinctive sound, and for those simply eager to experience a night of world-class live music, this promises to be a performance to remember.
According to event details published by the official City of Culture website and echoed in local coverage, doors for the concert will open at 6:30 pm, with the show itself kicking off at 7:30 pm sharp. The historic St George’s Hall, one of Bradford’s most cherished venues, provides a fitting backdrop for an artist whose career has spanned continents and genres.
John Grant is no ordinary musician. Born in the United States but now holding both American and Icelandic citizenship, Grant first made his mark as the frontman of The Czars, a band that garnered critical acclaim for its emotive songwriting and haunting melodies. But it’s been as a solo artist that Grant has truly come into his own, earning a reputation for music that is, as described by the City of Culture team, “both intimate and universal, heartbreakingly tragic and savagely funny.” This blend of vulnerability and wit has set him apart in a crowded field, winning over fans and critics alike.
Grant’s artistry is perhaps best exemplified in his most recent album, The Art of the Lie, released in 2024. The album has been widely hailed as his strongest work yet, with reviewers praising its lyrical depth and adventurous production. As the City of Culture website notes, “Last year’s The Art of the Lie was considered his best album yet, and Grant will bring his music to St George’s Hall.” For longtime listeners, the chance to hear these new songs performed live will be a rare treat; for newcomers, it’s a perfect introduction to an artist at the height of his creative powers.
But Grant’s story is about more than just his solo achievements. Over the years, he has collaborated with a veritable who’s-who of contemporary pop and rock superstars. His list of musical partners reads like a festival lineup: Kylie Minogue, Sinead O’Connor, Elbow, Robbie Williams—the list goes on. Each collaboration has brought out a different facet of his talent, whether he’s lending his distinctive baritone to a soaring duet or weaving his way through intricate harmonies. According to the official event announcement, Grant “has played and sung with a who’s-who of contemporary pop superstars: from Kylie Minogue to Sinead O’Connor, Elbow to Robbie Williams.”
It’s this versatility that makes Grant such a compelling live performer. His concerts are known for their emotional range, shifting seamlessly from moments of quiet introspection to bursts of biting humor. The City of Culture team captures this duality perfectly, describing his music as “heartbreakingly tragic and savagely funny.” It’s a balance that few artists manage to strike, and it’s part of what has earned Grant such a devoted following around the world.
Bradford’s City of Culture celebrations have been a showcase for the city’s rich artistic life, bringing in performers from across the globe and shining a spotlight on local talent. Grant’s appearance is a major coup for the organizers, and it underscores Bradford’s growing reputation as a destination for world-class arts and culture. The choice of St George’s Hall as the venue is no accident, either—the hall has played host to countless legendary acts over the years, and its storied stage is a fitting place for Grant to make his Bradford debut.
For those eager to attend, tickets are available through the official City of Culture website. The event page provides all the essential details, including the schedule—doors at 6:30 pm, concert at 7:30 pm—and a link to purchase tickets. Given Grant’s reputation and the buzz surrounding the show, organizers are encouraging fans to book early to avoid disappointment.
Beyond the excitement of the concert itself, Grant’s visit is a reminder of the transformative power of live music. In an age when so much of our musical experience happens through headphones and screens, there’s something uniquely powerful about gathering in a historic hall to share an evening of song. Grant’s music, with its blend of raw honesty and sly humor, seems tailor-made for this kind of communal experience. As one description on the City of Culture site puts it, his songs are “both intimate and universal”—words that could just as easily describe the best live performances.
Grant’s journey from the American indie scene to international acclaim has been anything but straightforward. After his time with The Czars, he struck out on his own, releasing a string of solo albums that have explored everything from heartbreak and addiction to politics and pop culture. Along the way, he’s picked up accolades and awards, not to mention a fiercely loyal fanbase. His willingness to tackle difficult subjects head-on, often with a wry smile, has made him a voice for those who find themselves on the margins.
It’s also worth noting the significance of this being Grant’s first headline show in Bradford. While he’s played in cities around the world, this marks a new chapter both for the artist and for the city’s cultural calendar. As Bradford continues its year as the UK City of Culture, events like this one are helping to put the city on the map for music lovers everywhere.
For Grant himself, the Bradford show is another opportunity to connect with audiences in a new setting. His fans know to expect the unexpected—moments of poignancy, flashes of humor, and, above all, a sense of genuine connection. Whether performing new tracks from The Art of the Lie or revisiting classics from his back catalog, Grant brings the same intensity and authenticity to every performance.
As the date approaches, anticipation is building—not just among Grant’s fans, but across the city. The buzz on social media is palpable, with concertgoers sharing their excitement and speculating about the evening’s setlist. For Bradford, hosting an artist of Grant’s caliber is a testament to the city’s cultural ambitions and its ability to attract top-tier talent.
For more information about the concert, including ticket availability and event details, interested readers can visit the Bradford 2025 City of Culture website at https://bradford2025.co.uk/event/john-grant/. With just days to go before the big night, those hoping to attend are advised to act fast—if history is any guide, this is one show that’s likely to sell out.
As Bradford prepares to welcome John Grant for his first headline show in the city, the stage is set for an unforgettable evening—one that will resonate long after the final encore.
