Category: Band News

Bilston Live with Britpop Reunion band brings the sound of the 1990s to the heart of the Black Country on Friday 11th September 2026, as Britpop Reunion takes to the stage at Bilston Market Square for an open-air night of Oasis, Blur, Pulp, The Verve and Supergrass, plus lots more Britpop bangers from across the era. This has been organised by Wolverhampton City Council especially for Britpop Reunion to perform at. Gates open at 6.15pm, the event begins at 6.30pm and the whole night wraps up by 9.30pm, giving the town a proper Friday night of guitars, singalongs and bucket hats. Head over to our public performances page for a link to buy tickets. If you’re looking to host a similar event then contact band leader Andy to check on fee and availability.

The Sort Of Songs You Will Hear on the Night at Bilston Live with Britpop Reunion Band

Britpop Reunion’s set draws from the biggest names of the era, and the songs below from our 90s repertoire give a flavour of what is in store.

Stand By Me by Oasis

Written by Noel Gallagher, Stand By Me appeared on Oasis’s 1997 album Be Here Now and reached number one on the UK Singles Chart. It remains at return to the glory days associated withe the Britpop era of Oasis and is a guaranteed singalong wherever it is played.

Parklife by Blur

Written by the whole band, Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James and Dave Rowntree, Parklife was the title track of Blur’s 1994 album of the same name and climbed to number ten in the UK charts. Its cheeky, London-flavoured swagger made it one of the defining anthems of the decade.

Common People by Pulp

Written by Jarvis Cocker alongside bandmates Russell Senior, Candida Doyle, Steve Mackey and Nick Banks, Common People was taken from Pulp’s 1995 album Different Class and reached number two on the UK Singles Chart. It is often cited as the ultimate Britpop lyric, all wit, class commentary and an unforgettable chorus.

Bitter Sweet Symphony by The Verve

Credited to Richard Ashcroft, though the writing credit was later shared with Jagger and Richards following a sampling dispute, Bitter Sweet Symphony came from The Verve’s 1997 album Urban Hymns and peaked at number two in the UK. Its sweeping strings and defiant lyric still bring a crowd together like little else….Funnily the sampling dispute was then later reversed.

Alright by Supergrass

Written by the band, Alright was released from Supergrass’s 1995 debut album I Should Coco and reached number two in the UK charts. Its bounce and carefree spirit make it a favourite for closing out a set on a high. Supergrass’s video for this ultimate Britpop tune was shot in Portmeirion in Wales where the 1960s TV show The Prisoner was filmed.

Bilston and Wolverhampton: A Fitting Setting

Bilston sits on the eastern edge of Wolverhampton, one of the old industrial towns that grew up around the Black Country’s ironworks, lock making and steel trades, and its market square has long been the natural gathering point for the community. These days the town is better known for its independent shops, its market days and events like this one, which bring people in from across Wolverhampton and the wider Black Country for a night out on their own doorstep. Bilston Market Square makes an ideal open-air venue for a band show, with plenty of space for a crowd to gather, sing along and enjoy a warm September evening under the stars. For Wolverhampton locals in particular, it is a rare chance to catch a full professional tribute act without having to travel into Birmingham or further afield, and it fits neatly alongside the city’s growing calendar of outdoor music events.

What to Expect at Bilston Live with Britpop Reunion band

Bilston Live with Britpop Reunion band is an outdoor standing gig, so it pays to dress for whatever the West Midlands weather decides to throw at Bilston that evening. Entry is strictly for ages 14 and above, with 14 and 15 year olds needing to be accompanied by an adult, while 16 year olds can attend unaccompanied. Last entry is at 8pm and there is no re-entry once you have left the market square, so it is worth settling in early and making a night of it. Tickets are priced at £7.40 plus booking fee, making this one of the most affordable ways to catch Britpop Reunion’s full band show in Wolverhampton this autumn.

DJ Dan Mawson Sets the Scene

Before the band arrives, Indie DJ Dan Mawson from VDUB Radio will be spinning the best of Britpop and indie from 6.30pm, warming the crowd up with the tunes that soundtracked school discos and student unions across the country in the 1990s. It is the perfect way to ease into an evening built entirely around nostalgia, and by the time the band walk out there will not be a bucket hat left in its box.

Book Britpop Reunion for Your Own Event

Bilston Live with Britpop Reunion is a ticketed public show, but the band is also available to hire for weddings, private parties, festivals and corporate events right across the Midlands and further afield. Whether you are after a full live band or a stripped back acoustic set, the group can tailor a performance to suit your venue and your guests.

For anyone new to the genre, it is worth reading up on what is Britpop before the gig, and anyone keen to see the band in action elsewhere can find out more on the live Britpop public performances page. Bilston Live with Britpop Reunion promises to be a warm, welcoming and thoroughly danceable night out for anyone who grew up on the sound of Oasis, Blur, James. The La’s, Pulp, Primal Scream and more and a great excuse to discover it all over again if you weren’t there in the 90s. Whatever brings you down to Bilston Market Square on 11th September 2026 expect a proper party from start to finish, courtesy of Britpop tribute band Britpop Reunion.

I’m Andy Starkey, bass player and band leader with Britpop band Britpop Reunion, and I offer myself as an Oasis tribute bass player dep for other acts who need cover at short notice. I’ve been playing this material for decades, both with my own band and standing in for others, so I can usually learn or brush up a set list quickly enough to save a gig that would otherwise be in trouble. Britpop Reunion is my full time project, but depping for other bands is something I do regularly on the side when the dates allow. Contact me now to check if I’m available for your Live 26 and Live 27 date or dates.

Why I Get Asked To Cover Oasis Sets as an Oasis Tribute Bass Player Dep.

Oasis bass parts look easy until you actually try to play them convincingly live. Paul “Guigsy” McGuigan and later Andy Bell performed basslines that sit low and steady, and if a dep doesn’t respect the small gaps and turnarounds, the whole song starts to feel wrong even if the notes are technically right. I’ve played this catalogue with real crowds in front of me for a long time now, not just worked through it at home with headphones on, so I usually already know the arrangement your band is using, or something close enough that one run through sorts it out. I learn songs to memory so I don’t need to read music live on stage giving you more of the original live Oasis feel.

Live Performances

As you’ll see I’m also singing lead vocals while playing Oasis bass on these videos, but just taking a step to the side and performing bass is something I’m always more than willing to do as well. But, maybe your Noel doesn’t sing any backing vocals? If that’s the case then I’m also more than happy to sing BVs too if you want. I’ll wear whatever period Oasis clothing you need me to wear and will perform with a Fender Precision bass guitar for oasis accuracy. I’ve got pedals and amps to faithfully reproduce the tone and sounds of Oasis bass players from over the years.

Songs I Can Step In On Without Much Notice

I’m comfortable across most of the Oasis songbook, but a few come up again and again when I dep:

Wonderwall was written by Noel Gallagher and appeared on the 1995 album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, where it reached number two in the UK charts. It’s the one every crowd waits for, so I focus on the timing sitting behind the strumming rather than treating it as a simple chord chart. Performed perfectly at Knebworth 10th August 1996.

Don’t Look Back In Anger, also written by Noel and taken from that same 1995 record, gave the band their second UK number one. The bass stays fairly quiet under the piano intro before locking in once the drums arrive, and I make sure I don’t rush that moment. Played amazingly at Main Road on 27th April 1996 by Noel Gallager on his Union Jack Champagne Supernova Epiphone Sheraton.

Cigarettes & Alcohol came from Definitely Maybe in 1994 and reached number seven in the UK charts. Since Live 25 doing The Poznan is a must for guests during this classic 90s track.

Roll With It, another Noel Gallagher song from Morning Glory, went head to head with Blur’s Country House back in August 1995 in what the papers called the Battle of Britpop, and settled at number two. The bass line itself is fairly straightforward but it needs confidence more than finesse. A superb version was performed at Earls Court on 26th September 1997.

Where I’m Available To Dep

I cover dates across the entire UK and beyond as an Oasis Tribute Bass Player Dep, including shows near Lichfield, Staffordshire and further out across the nation. If your act already has a booking sorted and just needs the bass guitar covered for the night, that’s something I can sort for you no problem.

Get In Touch with an Oasis tribute bass player dep

If you need a bass player who already knows the Oasis songbook properly, drop me a line and we’ll sort out timings, material and fee between us. Britpop tribute band Britpop Reunion is my main band, but I always make time for a good dep booking when my diary allows.

When you need to hire Britpop Entertainment to recapture the raw energy and cultural phenomenon of the nineties for a party then Britpop Reunion provides the definitive musical experience. We do not just play covers; we live and breathe the era that defined a generation. We’ll expertly perform you huge Brit Pop tracks by Oasis, Blur, Pulp, Supergrass, James and more. If you are looking for the very best in the field then contact band leader Andy to check on fee and availability.

Why Hire Dedicated Britpop Entertainment

Finding high-quality Britpop entertainers who understand the nuance of the decade is rare. Many bands claim to play nineties music, but few capture the specific swagger of the era. The best performances come from musicians who genuinely appreciate the songwriting craft behind the movement. Whether you love the stadium-filling anthems or the more introspective tracks of the time, a professional show brings these memories to life with authenticity and passion. Even if you just refer to it as the brit pop scene, the demand for this music remains incredibly high for festivals, weddings, and corporate parties.

Iconic Tracks and Britpop Entertainers and Artists

The sheer volume of chart-topping success during this period was staggering. Consider Oasis and their monumental track “Don’t Look Back in Anger“. Written by Noel Gallagher and appearing on the 1995 album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, it hit number one on the UK Singles Chart and remains a universal singalong. Then you have Blur, with “Country House“. This track famously triumphed in the Battle of Britpop against Oasis, reaching number one in 1995. It was a single featured on Blur’s 4th studio album The Great Escape.

We also celebrate the darker, more cynical side of the nineties. Pulp and their anthem “Common People” peaked at number two in 1995. Written by Jarvis Cocker and the band, it is widely regarded as a defining moment of the genre, featuring on the album Different Class. These are not just songs; they are cultural touchstones. When you hire experienced performers, you ensure these songs get the respect they deserve.

Experience the Best Brit Pop Show

Choosing the right Britpop entertainment transforms an average event into an unforgettable night. Your guests want to feel like they have been transported back to a time of optimism, terrace chants, and melodic brilliance. From the opening chords of a Supergrass classic to the final encore, a dedicated band ensures every detail is perfect. Whether it is for a birthday celebration or a large-scale festival, the right energy is essential. By booking specialists, you guarantee that the Britpop entertainers you choose will deliver a tight, professional, and exhilarating performance.

The legacy of this era continues to influence modern music, but nothing beats the live spectacle of a band playing these hits with proper nineties equipment and attitude. Whether you are hosting an intimate wedding or a massive outdoor stage production, Andy Starkey and his professional approach to Britpop entertainment ensures that your guests will be talking about your event for years to come. Do not settle for generic bands that treat nineties music as an afterthought. Invest in a specialist show that puts the music first.

Youre Gorgeous By Babybird Cover by premier Britpop tribute band Britpop Reunion. Performed live at one of our many sold out ticketed events. The Britpop single was released in September 1996 and it reached number 3 in the UK charts. You’ll still hear this Britpop banger everywhere you go including in your local supermarket while walking up and down the fresh fruit aisle. You’re Gorgeous was written by lead singer / frontman Stephen Jones and it was taken from the album Ugly Beautiful which reached 9 in the UK charts. To hire a 90s party band for an event contact band leader Andy.

Youre Gorgeous By Babybird Cover

You’re Gorgeous by Baby Bird only actually has two chords which are C and Fadd9. It is only the bass that makes it sound like there are 3 chords which makes it sound like it goes to a G chord on the 4th bar, but it doesn’t, the guitar stays the same on Fadd9…which contains a G note in it…..Clever eh 🙂

Three other singles in total were released from Ugly Beautiful in order they are:

• Goodnight – Reached number 28 in the UK charts
• Candy Girl – Reached number 14 in the UK charts
• Cornershop – Reached number 37 in the UK charts

Lyrics for Your Gorgeous

Remember that tank top you bought me, you wrote ‘You’re Gorgeous’ on it,
You took me to your rented motor car and filmed me on the bonnet,

You got me to hitch my knees up and pulled my legs apart,
You took an instamatic camera and pulled my sleeves around my heart,

Because you’re gorgeous I’d do anything for you.
Because you’re gorgeous I know you’ll get me through.

You said my clothes were sexy, you tore away my shirt.
You rubbed an ice-cube on my chest snapped me ’til it hurt.

Because you’re gorgeous I’d do anything for you.
Because you’re gorgeous I know you’ll get me through.

You said I wasn’t cheap. You paid me twenty pounds.
You promised to put me in a magazine on every table in every lounge.

Because you’re gorgeous I’d do anything for you.
Because you’re gorgeous I know you’ll get me through.

Why Book a Dedicated Bass Player Available?

Many groups encounter issues when their bass player leaves the band or is not available for the odd date here and there. When you have a bassist wanted notice out, you need someone who integrates immediately without demanding weeks of extra training. I will dedicate my time to learning your material at home on my own so you’re not having to spend money and time on rehearsal rooms. Then we can get together for a rehearsal or two prior to the gig/s. I focus exclusively on locking in with your drummer and driving the song forward. While my primary service is strictly bass instrumentation, I am happy to provide tight backing vocals if your specific arrangement requires them.

I will not read music from charts, I will commit it all fully to memory so you won’t have unsightly tablets on stage. I will look like I have always been a part of the band dressing in whatever attire you require me in.

When you hire a musician, you expect punctuality and preparation. I do not arrive to learn the set; I arrive to perform it. By utilising a bass player available for hire who has already mastered the nuances of 90s, indie, and classic chart pop structures and more, you safeguard your reputation and your show’s quality.

How to Proceed

If you are actively searching for a bassist or are planning ahead to avoid any future gaps in your lineup, I am ready to discuss your requirements just drop me an email. Let’s ensure your next performance is rhythmically locked and dynamically powerful.

Finding a musician who can hold down a solid groove while simultaneously nailing lead or backing vocals is rarer than you might think. If you are a band leader, function band manager, or tour organiser looking for a singing bass player for hire, you have come to the right place. I am Andy Starkey, and I specialise in stepping into high-pressure live environments, learning material quickly, and delivering a professional performance that your audience will love.

Whether you need a singing bassist for a last-minute dep gig, a short-notice tour replacement, or long-term session work, reliability and musicality are my top priorities. I understand that when a regular member is out, you need someone who doesn’t just know the notes but understands the stagecraft and energy required to keep a show running seamlessly. With over 30 years playing bass you can rest assured I’ll deliver the goods with a smile on my face. Contact me now and let me know what you require from me.

Versatile Singing Bass Player Hire for Every Stage

I provide professional, high-quality bass and vocal services for a wide variety of acts. If you need a reliable hand, I am available for:

• Touring Bands: Professional support for famous or semi-famous artists who have released singles or albums requiring tight rhythm and vocal sections.
• Anniversary tour of an album: Doing a 20th, 30th or 40th anniversary of an album and putting a tour together around it? Let’s do it together.
• Long Term or short term contracts: Whole tour? No problem. One off show? No problem either…and anything in-between.
• Tribute & Cover Bands: Experienced dep services to ensure your show remains authentic and high-energy.
• Wedding & Event Bands: Reliable performance for high-stakes private functions and celebrations.
• Corporate Event Bands: Polished, professional presentation suitable for high-end corporate environments.

I can play most types of basslines but I have no interest in performing hard rock, metal, funk or jazz. I excel in performing basslines from music like chart pop, indie, Britpop, The 90’s (Obviously my specialty) and much more.

Whether you need me to step in for main vocals or simply require solid backing vocals to fill out your live sound, I adapt to your specific requirements. My goal is to ensure your band sounds exactly as it should, regardless of the venue or the scale of the production.

Why Choose Me for Singing Bass Player Hire?

When you bring in a dep, you need to know they can hit the ground running. My background as the front-man and bassist of Britpop Reunion and various other bands means I am accustomed to carrying the rhythm section while engaging with the crowd. I do not just stand in the background; I bring energy, charisma, and a professional attitude to every performance.

Finding a musician who can do both roles effectively is a massive advantage. It means your vocal harmonies remain tight and the bottom end stays locked in with the drummer, all without the need for extra personnel on stage. If you need a singing bass player for hire who can learn your setlist quickly and integrate immediately, I am ready to help.

You’ve probably searched the following words online:

• Hire a singing bass player.
• Find a bass player who sings.
• Singer bass player wanted.
• Singing bass player needed.
• Need a singing bass player.
• Dep player who can also sing.

A Reliable Bassist and Vocalist for Your Band

I know exactly what band members search for when they are in a bind. You are likely looking for someone who has their own professional gear, reliable transport, a flexible schedule, and the ability to transpose or adapt to different musical styles at a moment’s notice.

I have spent years honing my craft in diverse live settings. From pub circuits and private parties to major festival stages, I have seen it all. This experience allows me to remain calm under pressure, handle technical issues if they arise, and ensure that the music is the main focus. When you bring me on board as your singing bass player for hire, you are not just getting a musician who plays the lines; you are getting a pro who understands the importance of showmanship and punctuality.

Flexible Singing Bassist Availability

My schedule is managed to allow for professional dep work across the UK. Whether you require a single show or a multi-date run, I am comfortable stepping into established acts and making sure the transition is invisible to the audience. I am always prepared, I come fully rehearsed, and I bring a professional attitude to every rehearsal and soundcheck.

We can get together for a rehearsal no problem and I’ll also work on all the material at home on my own so I’m not wasting your valuable time in rehearsal studios.

If you are stuck, or if you are planning ahead and need a safe pair of hands to cover your bass and vocal duties, get in touch today. Let’s discuss your setlist, your upcoming dates, and how I can help your band deliver the high-quality show your clients expect.

Advice to young and upcoming bands and musicians by your Uncle Andy Starkey from Britpop Reunion from our TikTok channel. 

Listen To Yer Uncle Andy

Whether you’re a band or solo artist Andy Starkey’s ‘Listen to yer Uncle Andy’ videos on TikTok tell you what you should and shouldn’t be doing. Maybe you’re new to the music scene or maybe you’ve been at it a while but can’t quite work out what’s going wrong? With over 30 years in the music industry Andy has gone through most trials and tribulations of being and working in a band so offers his advice freely to all. 

If you want to know what type of mixing desk or speakers to buy, how to set a band up to perform live, what to charge and everything in-between your Uncle Andy Starkey is the chap to listen to. Most importantly Andy will tell you what NOT to do, so you can avoid mistakes. So listen to your Uncle Andy. 

Below are some of the best advise videos from Andy, but head on over to our official Britpop Reunion TikTok Profile to connect with us and view more. 

#listentoyeruncleandy

@britpopreunion

Speakers on stage? ❌❌ DON’T DO IT by Andy from Britpop Reunion #listentoyeruncleandy #newbands #soundadvise #livesound #newbands #indie #soundengineer

♬ original sound – Britpop Reunion

@britpopreunion

What else have you used gaffa tape for? #listentoyeruncleandy #newbands #newmusicians #youngbands #youngmusicians #indie

♬ original sound – Britpop Reunion

@britpopreunion

Don’t put your best song first in your set….and here’s why. #listentoyeruncleandy #newbands #youngbands #indie #indiebands #newmusicians #newyoungbands #newmusic #liveband #livemusic #setlist

♬ original sound – Britpop Reunion

https://www.tiktok.com/@britpopreunion/video/7470575489795591446?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7489092189499229718