Ne-Yo And Akon Announce Massive 2026 UK Tour

Something special is brewing for fans of 2000s R&B: Ne-Yo and Akon, two of the era’s most influential hitmakers, are joining forces for a global musical extravaganza. The Nights Like This tour, produced by Live Nation, is set to sweep across 57 cities worldwide in 2026, with a highly anticipated UK and Ireland leg scheduled for late April through early May. For many, this tour promises a night of pure nostalgia—think of it as your favorite Noughties playlist coming to life, with every chorus and hook ready to be sung at the top of your lungs.

The excitement is palpable, and for good reason. As reported by Closer Online, Ne-Yo and Akon’s combined catalog reads like a greatest hits compilation for a generation. Ne-Yo’s smooth anthems such as “Miss Independent,” “Closer,” and “So Sick” have soundtracked countless memories, while Akon’s era-defining tracks like “Smack That,” “Don’t Matter,” and “Lonely” still spark instant recognition and singalongs. Both artists have shaped the sound of modern R&B and pop, and now they’re bringing that legacy to arenas packed with fans eager to relive those golden years.

The UK and Ireland leg of the Nights Like This tour kicks off on April 24, 2026, at Dublin’s 3 Arena. Due to overwhelming demand, a second show has been added for April 25, as reported by Ticketmaster.ie. The tour then makes its way to Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on April 27, Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on April 28, Leeds’ First Direct Bank Arena on April 30, Manchester’s Co-op Live on May 1, Birmingham’s Utilita Arena on May 4, and culminates at London’s iconic O2 Arena on May 8. Each venue promises a party atmosphere, with the tour’s slogan—"Every city. Every vibe. Every night - a party."—setting the tone for what’s to come, according to Seat Unique.

Tickets for the general public went on sale at 10am on January 30, 2026, and demand was immediate and intense. As Closer Online and theo2.co.uk both noted, prices range from £45 to £122, depending on the venue and seating choice, with some resales already fetching higher prices on platforms like StubHub. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, five VIP packages are on offer, including perks such as a Meet & Greet with Akon, exclusive merchandise, and early entry, available through VIP Nation Europe and Seat Unique. These packages have proven especially popular, offering fans a chance to get closer to their idols.

Presale access was available earlier in the week for O2 Priority, Live Nation, and Spotify users, giving die-hard fans a head start on securing tickets. The advice from seasoned concertgoers, as shared by Closer Online, is to be prepared: log in to your ticketing account early, have your payment details ready, and don’t refresh the virtual queue—patience is key to snagging those coveted spots.

Each city’s arena is bracing for capacity crowds. Manchester’s Co-op Live, for instance, can hold up to 23,000 fans, promising a sea of voices united in song. London’s O2 Arena, easily accessible via North Greenwich Station on the Jubilee Line, is imposing strict bag policies—only A4-sized bags or smaller are allowed, so leave the backpacks and suitcases at home. For drivers, parking is available, but public transport remains the most efficient option for getting to the show on time, according to theo2.co.uk.

What can fans expect from the setlist? While the official lineup hasn’t been confirmed, promotional materials and industry insiders agree that the shows will be packed with each artist’s biggest hits. Akon’s “Smack That,” “Lonely,” “Right Now (Na Na Na),” “I Wanna Love You,” and “Don’t Matter” are all but guaranteed to feature. Ne-Yo will likely perform “So Sick,” “Closer,” “Miss Independent,” “Because of You,” and more. There’s also buzz about the duo performing their collaboration with David Guetta, “Work Hard, Play Hard.” In short, it’s a dream setlist for anyone who’s ever hit repeat on a 2000s R&B classic.

The tour is more than just a trip down memory lane—it’s a celebration of two artists who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Ne-Yo, a three-time Grammy Award winner, has defined the sound of contemporary R&B with his storytelling and dynamic vocals. His debut single “So Sick” became a quadruple-platinum hit, and he boasts two No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200, not to mention over 23 billion streams across his catalog. He’s also penned hits for other superstars, including “Let Me Love You” for Mario, “Take a Bow” for Rihanna, and tracks for Jennifer Hudson.

Akon’s journey is equally impressive. The Senegalese-American artist burst onto the scene in 2004 with “Locked Up,” and his 2006 album Konvicted propelled him to international stardom. He’s the founder of multiple influential record labels—Konlive, Konvict Kulture, and KONVICT Music—responsible for launching the careers of icons like Lady Gaga, T-Pain, and French Montana. With more than 35 million albums sold worldwide, five Grammy nominations, 45 Billboard Hot 100 songs, and over 300 guest appearances with legends such as Michael Jackson, David Guetta, Gwen Stefani, Lil’ Wayne, and Eminem, Akon’s influence stretches far beyond his own hits.

The Nights Like This tour is also notable for its accessibility and inclusivity. All age groups are welcome, though standing areas at venues like the O2 are restricted to those aged 16 and over. The shows are designed to be safe, welcoming, and unforgettable for everyone, whether you’re reliving your youth or discovering these artists for the first time.

For those planning to attend, a few practical tips go a long way. Make sure your ticketing account is up to date, consider using multiple devices to increase your chances in the virtual queue, and don’t forget the bag restrictions. And if you’re lucky enough to score a VIP package, prepare for a night that’s even more memorable—think early entry, exclusive swag, and a chance to meet Akon himself.

As the tour dates draw near, anticipation is reaching fever pitch. The Nights Like This tour isn’t just another concert series—it’s a full-blown celebration of an era, of artistry, and of the enduring power of music to bring people together. With every city, every vibe, and every night promising a party, fans across the UK and Ireland are gearing up for an experience they won’t soon forget.

With tickets selling fast and demand showing no signs of slowing, those hoping to join the party would be wise to act quickly. After all, as anyone who’s ever missed out on a legendary tour knows, some nights really are once in a lifetime.