Key points
- Joan Jett and the Blackhearts are expected to blaze Manchester’s stage in a month’s time.
- Jettheads are lingering for the band’s arrival.
- Music icon Sammy Hagar was initially touring with the Blackhearts.
- Her original band already toured Manchester.
- Joan Jett and the Blackhearts are excited over the upcoming UK tour.
- Manchester Academy has welcomed iconic bands from all around the world.
- The venue will house other musicians across 2026.
Rock and roll legend Joan Jett is anticipated to rock Manchester‘s stage. On July 4th 2026, her and the Blackhearts will play at the historical Manchester Academy.
Why are rock fans admiring Jett’s return?
Headlining her first UK show after 16 years, Manchester is awaiting her roaring return. As the frontwoman of her band, Jett is not afraid of her ‘Bad Reputation’. Fans known as Jettheads, have crazed over the upcoming tour.
Originally touring with Van Halen star Sammy Hagar, the tour was recently cancelled. The rocker admitted, he has minimised his tour due to low ticket sales. However, Jett bounced back; has dominated the country with a transforming tour. Van Halen is still sensationalising the UK with his numerous music events.
Does Joan Jett have a past connection to Manchester?
Joan Jett is no stranger to the North West. In 1977, her first band ‘The Runaways’ toured the epicentre of music mania, Manchester. She dominated the stage with other rock enthusiasts such as: Lita Ford, Sandy West, and Vicki Blue. This Manchester tour to Jett, was life-changing as she was pressured to be the frontwoman.
Little did she expect, this Manchester show sharpened who she would become in the Blackhearts. After the departure of the original star, Cherie Currie, this transformed the band’s image and history forever. The all girl rock band cultivated music history. Various famed tracks like ‘Cherry Bomb’ hit the music billboard globally. However, it impacted Japan the most. Notably, the band described it as “Beatlemania.”
Jett has stated about the thrill of the upcoming tour across the country. She wrote,
“We can’t wait to be back on stage in the UK this Summer! I wrote and recorded Bad Reputation, my first solo LP in London. It’s been too long since we’ve been in the UK and we’re excited to see everyone!”
What will take place at Manchester’s Academy?
Manchester will welcome Blackheart’s support act called ‘The Meffs’. The British punk-band is notorious for their charisma and elevating energy. Originally from Colchester, they will support the band throughout the entirety of the UK tour. The Manchester event marks an important benchmark in ‘The Meffs’ history.
Taking place at the town’s music hotspot, Manchester Academy, it has opened its door for events since 1963. Famously, it has been a hub for groundbreaking Mancunian bands like Oasis and the Stone Roses. However, this summer it will embrace Jett’s return.
Reportedly, the event’s doors will open at around 7pm. Alongside this, the curfew is anticipated to be at 11pm. The Blackheart’s performance times will start at 7:30pm and last for four hours. According to Manchester Academy’s website, all ages are welcome to attend. Although under 16’s, will have to be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are still available for the July event, through websites like ticketmaster. Strikingly, the venue can hold up to 2,600 visitors.
What musicians will Manchester Academy welcome next?
Notably, the concert hub will greet a variety of artists. From the American pop-star Charlie Puth, to Steel Panther, their stage welcomes musicians weekly. This summer marks an important and busy time for Manchester Academy.
Is Joan Jett performing elsewhere in the UK?
Currently, the Blackheart’s are undergoing a world tour. Jett is rocking through countries in Europe and numerous locations in North America. Excitement has been expressed by rock fans because of her endless events. Other than Manchester, Jett is expected to perform in: Leeds, Glasgow, Wolverhampton and London. This year is a benchmark for Joan Jett, as her music career has stretched to five decades.
