Craig David brought his signature blend of R&B, UK garage, and electrifying energy to Manchester’s Co-op Live on 14 February 2025, kicking off the Valentine’s weekend with a performance that had the crowd buzzing. As part of his much-anticipated Commitment Tour 2025, the Southampton-born star proved once again why he remains one of the UK’s most beloved artists, over two decades after his genre-defining debut album, Born to Do It.
The atmosphere was electric. DJ sets warmed up the crowd before special guest Lemar took the stage around 7:45 PM, delivering a nostalgic set of his own hits like If There’s Any Justice and Dance (With U). Lemar, a fitting choice for the tour, set the tone with his smooth vocals and engaging presence, reminding fans of his own contributions to British R&B.
But it was Craig David who truly stole the show when he hit the stage. Opening with a seamless mix of classics and newer material, he had the audience in the palm of his hand from the first beat. Tracks like Fill Me In, 7 Days, and Walking Away were met with deafening cheers, as fans sang along to every word, their voices echoing through the cavernous Co-op Live.
Craig’s ability to blend his TS5 DJ sets with live vocals was a highlight, showcasing his evolution from chart-topping singer to dynamic performer. The setlist, a carefully curated journey through his career, included surprises like Re-Rewind, a nod to his UK garage roots, and newer tracks such as Abracadabra with Wes Nelson. The energy never dipped, with the crowd dancing non-stop, fueled by Craig’s infectious charisma and the pulsating beats.
Visually, the production was slick yet intimate, complementing the music without overshadowing it. The lighting design, in particular, added depth to the performance, shifting from warm, golden hues during ballads to vibrant, strobe-lit bursts for the high-energy TS5 segments. While I couldn’t see the specific photos you referenced, it’s easy to imagine they captured the dynamic interplay between Craig, his band, and the euphoric crowd.
What stood out most was Craig’s connection with his audience. Between songs, he shared heartfelt anecdotes about his journey, including the significance of Born to Do It—now 23 years old—and his gratitude for the unwavering support of UK fans. This authenticity resonated deeply, especially in Manchester, a city known for its passionate music lovers.
The only minor critique might be the pacing of the set, with some fans on X noting a slight lull during the transition between the live band performance and the DJ set. However, this was quickly forgotten as Craig ramped up the energy, ensuring everyone left on a high.
Craig David’s Manchester show was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of his legacy, his evolution, and his unbreakable bond with his fans. If the rest of the Commitment Tour is anything like this, 2025 is set to be a landmark year for one of Britain’s most enduring musical talents.
Photo Copyright © Stephen Farrell
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