Music
Ticketmaster Ticket of The Year 2016
You voted in your thousands for the 2016 Ticketmaster Ticket of The Year and the results are here! So without further delay, check out the most popular shows in Ireland in 2016.
10. The Stone Roses
2016 was a great year for the legendary Stone Roses, and their legend status was only solidified in June at Marlay park, Dublin as they belted out anthem after anthem with the dedicated audience singing along word for word throughout the set. At the end of the show, the band shared hugs before leaving the stage to a roar of applause with Mani grabbing the microphone and declaring “we love you Ireland”, and reaching number 10 on our Ticket of the Year, it’s clear Ireland loves them too.
9. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
It’s no wonder Macklemore & Ryan Lewis made it to number 9 on our list. Us Irish always have a soft spot for the stars from over seas that declare their love for our Island, and the lads were no different as Macklemore sported an Irish football jersey and Ryan Lewis wore a hoodie with Dublin sprawled across the front, on stage at 3Arena back in April. On stage for 3 nights, with eye-catching and dynamic visuals they put on a show from the first moment of the show, telling stories to the eager crowd and even passing out cookies to the front row. The duo did not disappoint, earning them a well-deserved spot on the Ticket of The Year shortlist.
8. Muse
2016 saw the return of Muse to Irish shores on 5 April at 3Arena. This was the first date of The Dones Tour, and with one fan describing it as an experience rather than just a concert it’s clear why Muse has bagged number 8 on our list. The show was a real spectacle for fans, with a revolving stage in the centre of the arena, an amazing light show and half a dozen drones hovering above the audience for the duration of the show. Jumping from album to album the band left fans craving more but satisfied with the sensational show.
7. Longitude
Quickly becoming a summer staple Longitude Festival takes home number 7 on our list. This year’s festival left fans with memories to last a lifetime as a range of acts graced the stage, including The Lumineers, Kendrick Lamar, Run The Jewels, Major Lazer, Father John Misty, Jamie XX and The National, to name just a few. With the vast amount of acts playing across the weekend, the atmosphere kept everyone in good spirits, and even the sun was seen to make an appearance.
6. Kodaline
In July Kodaline played their biggest ever gig, delighting 20,000 fans in Marley Park. Playing to a sold-out audience, the Dublin natives played hit after hit to their gleeful audience happy to sing along. Spreading the joy throughout the night the 4 piece happily releasing balloons and confetti onto their audience.
5. Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber has been a household name for a number of years now, so it’s really no surprise that we find him sitting at number 5 on our list. Playing two nights in 3Arena in November he gave his fans a concert to remember. Showing off his perfected dance skills along with his troupe of backup dancers Justin’s high energy kept fans buzzings throughout the night and probably long after the lights were turned off at 3Arena.
4. Adele
The British song bird graced the stage of 3Arena for two nights in March and one Night at The SSE Arena, Belfast. Belting out songs from across all three albums Adele entertained her audiences with not only her spectacular voice but also with her down to earth and playful story telling. With a simple stage show, earning number 4 on our list is a true testament to the raw talent and genuine character that is the wonderful Adele.
3. Beyonce
Taking the stage at Dublin’s Croke Park, Beyonce lived up to her superstar status in July. Queen B had the whole stadium rocking as she churned out all the hits spanning an 18-year career. “I’ve done some of the best shows of my career in Dublin, Ireland. Thank you for your loyalty and support over the last nineteen years,” she stated to the ecstatic crowd. Surely there were thousands of sore feet the day after, but anyone that was there will happily tell you it was well worth it.
2. Electric Picnic
Electric Picnic has truly solidified itself as Irelands hottest festival over the last number of years. Catering to people from all walks of life, not only does this fantastic festival offer great music, fans can find hilarious comedy and beautiful art pieces scattered all across the weekend. This year of course, was no exception with headliners including LCD Soundsystem, Lana Del Rey, The Chemical Brothers and New Order. Electric Picnic is a surefire way for any fan to escape the mundane of the day to day realities, even if it is just for a weekend. Attend a wedding, join the rave in the woods, or just chill out at the Peace Pagoda. Fans will admittedly never get to experience or even see everything Electric Picnic has to offer, but maybe that’s the draw that keeps them coming back each year.
1. Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band
This year’s number one slot for Ticketmaster’s Ticket of The Year goes to Bruce Sprinsgteen and The E Street Band who entertained fans at Croke Park back in May. The Boss, famous for his exuberant and lengthy performance didn’t disappoint the Irish fans on either night. Full of energy and delight Springsteen could be seen bounding across the stage and encouraging louder and louder cheers, as the crowd gratefully obliged. The audience was packed with fans of all ages, from lifelong fans to younger generations inspired by parents to turn on a Bruce record. This was truly a show that no fan will forget very soon, and well deserving of the number one spot.
So what are the most anticipated shows for 2017?
- Coldplay
- Robbie Williams
- Electric Picnic
- Radiohead
- Drake
Going to a concert elicits emotions from even the stoniest of personalities. Want to give someone the gift of an experience but not sure about who their favourite artist is? No worries, why not give your loved one a Ticketmaster Gift Card this Christmas. They’ll be thanking you for years to come. Get yours here.
