Nearly a year to the day we lost the wonderful Andy Rourke, the Star and Garter played host to a fine line-up of musicians, all of whom knew or admired Andy. Organised perfectly by Julie Hamill, the weekend was a roaring success taking place over Friday and Saturday evening with Smiths fans from all over dancing late into the night.

The Friday kicked off with tribute band The Smith’s united warming up the crowd before listening to an exclusive chat with Andy’s brother Phil and Chris. The audience were also treated to the lovely Stephen Holt of Inspiral Carpets who performed a number of Smith’s songs to close day one of Andy’s weekend.

Saturday the crowds reformed outside the Star and Garter for day two and there was plenty to look forward to, yet again the Smiths UTD were back and doing what they do best (and I must say are certainly one of the most convincing tribute bands on the scene) warming up the crowd and then making several appearances throughout the evening – genuinely lovely people too!

Mike Joyce was a wonderful addition to the evening as he spoke candidly about Andy and the journey they took together in this iconic band. Headlining the evening was the legendary Badly Drawn boy who received a rapturous applause as he took to the stage and sang beautifully making this one of the more emotional parts of the weekend.

Andy’s weekend would not be complete without the infamous Star and Garter Smiths which kept fans grooving late into the night and was hosted by DJ Rusty Spanner. All in all a perfect tribute to a wonderful man proving that he has left a musical legacy that will continue to live on in this city and beyond.

Well done to Julie and the ‘Mozarmy’ team for hosting such a special weekend and allowing RGM to be a part of it.

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The post ANDY ROURKE’S WEEKEND LIVE IN MANCHESTER – WHAT HAPPENED? first appeared on RGM : REYT GOOD MAGAZINE.