Storytelling through music: Loyle Carner Moves Manchester at his latest gig.

Katie Hawkins and Millie Cain head down to 02 Victoria Warehouse for a night of unexpected poetry, political conversation starters, and honest-to-god uplifting music.

KH: Millie and I walked into the O2 Victoria Warehouse expecting a rap concert, but left with an experience like no other. Loyle Carner put on a show that not only exemplified his skill in lyricism, but a show that took every listener in the room on a journey of emotion and heartfelt connection. One thing’s for sure – he did not shy away from politics or injustice and instead made this the centre of his performance, using his platform as a way to enlighten his predominantly younger fans of ongoing social issues regarding politics and harsh male expectations. 

Let me paint a picture for you: the set was simple, Carner appearing on stage with nothing but himself, his band and their instruments under amber lighting, drawing on a feeling of reality and simplicity in a humble, down-to-earth atmosphere. He set the tone for the evening in one of his first songs, ‘Homerton’, making his political stance very clear from the beginning: “This song is dedicated to the NHS and the beautiful working side”. His gratitude for the NHS came across as a beautiful but necessary surprise, as there is most definitely a lack of political activism within young mainstream rappers in this generation. It was certainly refreshing to see just how passionate Carner was about his opinions on the current state of this country’s controversial politics, but perhaps it’s simply these current affairs that have forced more young rappers to become involved in activism.

MC: Throughout his career, Carner has been socially outspoken with clear support towards men’s mental health, neurodivergency, climate change and racism. Now with the current wave of anti-migration washing over the UK, it felt apt for him to discuss the political climate in a sensitive, yet serious fashion. Carner’s individual support is not only essential for impact of those affected by accruing hatred, but to inspire younger male rappers to be empowered in their words and audience to speak up too. 

Continuing through the set, Carner maintained a cool composure, with seeping emotion, before pausing for a moment following ‘Nobody Knows’ and admitted he was moved to tears. Taking his earpiece out, and listening to the crowd echoing back at him, it was clear that Carner’s kind stoicism was no front, but a sincere appreciation. Reflecting on not only his career, but his developing family life has created a real shift in Carner’s writing. His most recent album, hopefully! (2025) opens with the sound of his young son playing the xylophone, and he delves into a deeply personal exploration of fatherhood, mirrored in his own childhood experiences. He took plenty of time between songs to discuss, the audience hanging onto every word, as he described recording the leading single ‘all i need’, with his son sat upon his shoulders. 

The hazy, hypnotic album brought a sun-kissed glow to the skeletal inside of Victoria Warehouse. This, accompanied by Carner’s vivid descriptions of his process and creative life, built up a serene world, unexpected for a rap concert by Katie and I. We watched girls cling to each other, sob words to their favourite track through tightly held hands, couples rest against the other’s brow, and older people nod along with mismatched familiarity. 

As the dust settled, Carner closed his set with a poem. It felt genuine, intimate even, as he addressed his audience with the familiarity of long friends, and an almost nervous beginning. He settled into quiet confidence as the words rolled out from him, and we promised him we would take them forwards with us. His poignant intent left a brighter mark, we walked away from his show feeling lighter and his last words ring true “We will not be divided.” 

Words by Katie Hawkins & Millie Cain.