Geldof to perform at planned Ukraine benefit in Manchester

Songs of Freedom, a benefit concert for people affected by the war in Ukraine, is planned for February 3, 2027, at Co-op Live in Manchester, with Bob Geldof among the performers. Organisers say proceeds will support four humanitarian organisations, and the event is planned for worldwide broadcast.

The announced live lineup includes Madness, Peter Hook and The Light, The Doobie Brothers, Chrissie Hynde, The Lathums, Nick Lowe, Midge Ure, Inspiral Carpets, Chris Difford, Alabama 3, The Molotovs and the Songs for Ukraine Choir. The London Metropolitan Orchestra is also listed. Organisers expect to announce additional performers, so the lineup may change.

Paul McCartney, Barbra Streisand and Sean Penn are among those expected to appear virtually, according to the announcement. Other reports also list Huey Lewis and the News and Flyte for virtual appearances.

The four named beneficiaries are UNITED24, Voices of Children, the Sviatoslav Vakarchuk Charitable Foundation People of the Future, and Masha Foundation. The announcement says they provide humanitarian relief, including trauma assistance, education, healthcare and music schools. It does not specify how proceeds will be divided...