Win Tickets

[YulianK]

You, your bestie and 90's icon Natalie Imbruglia at a show money can't buy... sounds pretty incredible, right? There’re 10 pairs of tickets up for grabs and every SMARTY customer has the chance to enter. Try your luck below.

Tell me more

This money-can’t-buy experience will take place at Virgin Radio's Sunset Sessions with SMARTY on Friday 29th September. ​

Hosted by drivetime legend Ricky Wilson, Natalie Imbruglia will perform an honest, intimate and stripped back set of her biggest and best hits. This exclusive performance will be set at the top of the NewsUK tower in London as the sun sets across the city – what an experience, right?

But hurry, the competition closing date is just around the corner…

Fancy it?

To enter you’ll need to respond below, telling us “What has been your favourite live gig and why?” We can’t wait to read your answers.

Terms and Conditions

1. The Prize Draw opens on 4th September 2023 at 09:00 and closes on 10th September 2023 at 23:59 (“Promotion Period”).
2. No travel or accommodation expense will be covered.
3. To be eligible to enter the Prize Draw entrants must be a SMARTY customer and be registered for the SMARTY Community within the Promotion Period, who is over 18 years of age and a UK resident (“Eligible Entrants”)
4. Those attending the event consent to their and their guests’ details being shared with News Broadcasting Limited and their contractors to facilitate the Prize and for SMARTY to use their names, photographs and any quotes they provide about the Event in any SMARTY marketing activity across some or all media channels.

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UPDATE - COMPETITION CLOSED

The competition is now closed, and we will make the draw for the winners from all the eligible entries  and contact them in the next 24 hours.

So, keep your fingers crossed and an eye on your email inbox. Make sure you check your spam folders too, just in case.

Thanks to everyone who contributed some brilliant entries. We had over 560 posts and have had an amazingly diverse range of response, from Christian festivals to back-room-of-a-pub gigs, from massive stadium concerts to someone’s wedding. It’s been brilliant reading them all. Thank you.

And it’s never too late to see live music; go to a big venue, visit a festival, or just see what your local arts’ centre has on. You never know what you’re going to find.

Keep up the great work everyone; the SMARTY Community belongs to us all and succeeds because of your great contributions.

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We were delighted to welcome SMARTY competition winners to watch this intimate performance with Drivetime host Ricky Wilson hosting the event.

[video]

[NickSom_2160795]

Def Leppard at the Royal Albert Hall. My ears were still ringing the next day but it was great going back to feeling like I was in my 20s again

[RobertPM]

The 1969 Isle of Wight Festival, with Bob Dylan, the Who and Free! 

[Richard_2140901]

Live8!!!! So many live performances. Awesome experience that hasn’t been matched!!

[Abhijat_1474300]

Well, you know, I once attended a live gig where the band's drummer accidentally knocked over their drum kit mid-song. It turned into a full-blown drum-ergency! The drummer was trapped inside a tangle of cymbals and snare drums, desperately trying to break free while keeping the beat with his feet.

Meanwhile, the rest of the band just kept playing like nothing was happening. It was like a chaotic mix of music and slapstick comedy! I couldn't stop laughing, and I guess you could say that became my favorite live gig because it was the one where the drummer really "rocked" and rolled!

[CamranB_1912811]

Bryan Adams 2023, Aberdeen. Went with my friends mum. It was all good until she started dancing and I felt like I was her carer. Needless to say Bryan still has it even though he's 63  !!

[IanTray_1953772]

My most favourite live gig was The Snuts performing at Latitude in 2021. They were the first band I saw at the festival and after going through “lockdown” it was a complete release. I don’t cry very often but that gig brought tears to my eyes. 

[MARKREEV_790828]

I have followed stevie wonder forever and managed to see him in 2014 at Clapham Common he was as good as I thought he would be

[GaryDunn_304581]

I have been to a few really good gigs. As for my favourite one it's a toughie. My friends might think its steps or spice girls as I really am a sucker for cheesy music. However I think I would have to say my fave gig was the first pet shop boys concert I went to. The set list was great and got u involved even tho I wasn't sure of all the songs. However the thing that topped it was the light effects they had put on. I haven't experienced that before. Was a good few years ago now and I have seen them live 3 times now but it doesn't crack the first time I saw them. Memories.

[TerryWi_1760580]

Michael Jackson Wembley and Cardiff only went to take wife and thought it was amazing 

[Caitlin_2207489]

My favourite was paolo nutini at bellahouston in 2014!! So long ago but nothing beats it

[Madelin_2199100]

My favourite live performance was seeing Taylor Swift in Sydney Australia for the first time. It was my first concert and I went with my mum, my best friend and her mum. We had the nose bleed seats right in the back but I couldn’t have cared less because we had the best time. I remember wanting the merch and specifically this blue top of hers but they had no more left in a 9 year olds size so my got me an XL and I wore it for years as my pj top before it basically fell to pieces. It’s such a special memory to me, being with the people I love and singing my heart out! 

[MarceloNeves]

I had the incredible opportunity to see 🎶Maroon 5 performing around the same time as Natalie💖 in Manchester. Both experiences hold a special place in my heart 💓, evoking cherished memories from my teenage years and helping me through the good and tough times 💪.

Attending 😍Natalie Imbruglia's😍 gig fills me with excitement and nostalgia. 🤗

I can't wait to be at her concert and watch her perform the hits that touched/helped me in my teenage years. 😍

[DeanHor_1229254]

My favourite gig (giving my age away) was Led Zeppelin at Knebworth in 1979. They were brilliant and it was in an amazing setting at Knebwoth House. I went on to see them at two other venues, however my tastes have mellowed slightly since then!

[AndrewW_1733357]

My favourite music event is still Glastonbury Festival. I have seen some amazing bands from Foo Fighters to Radiohead and Dua Lipa. Atmosphere there is something special.

[geoffre_1913006]

Rod Stewart 35 years ogo Earls Court with my then future wife, great day out with a great woman.

[JamesSi_2206108]

Madonna 16th August (her birthday) wembley arena 2006. I've been a fan since I was 8 (long time ago) have seen her a few times but never very close. We managed to get last minute amazing seat, really close the catwalk. Was the moment if my life seeing her so close doing what she does best. Her manger was taking photos for a book to celebrate the tour. And we even managed to get out photo in the book 🙌🙌🙌 lol

[SimonDavinci]

Rita Ora at an intimate gig in the Cafe De Paris, when she was just stating off.  You could tell that she was a star in the making!

[GuyCord_1807682]

R.E.M. Monster Tour at Milton Keynes in 1995.  The atmosphere was electric and looking back I realise how amazing it was to not only see R.E.M. live but also to see BLUR as their support.  It was a brilliantly hot, sunny day and I spent it with friends immersed in the music.  Stunning.   I can't wait for the opportunity to share this new concert experience with my music obsessed teenage daughter.

[PaulWyl_2226385]

Supertramp, Lansdown Park, Ottawa, Canada 1979, 1st Large concert I ever went to.

[VadimSa_1286023]

Win

[SianFree_293909]

Thought to choose a fave from the many gigs we’ve been to…. So I’ll choose a band called Happy Hour! They were our wedding band! Played every song we wanted! Love them and the experience! 

[Willemv_1715476]

The interactive Grease experience at the NEC in Birmingham.

[JOHNEST_1954286]

Peter Gabriel at Southampton back in 1982. My musical hero, live in concert and playing songs that meant so much to me, with his incredible band, some of whom still tour with him to this day (and I took my son to see him on his latest tour in Birmingham just this year). Check him out, youngsters!

[Christoph_71970]

Jean Michel Jarre in Paris in 1992.  I'd missed the one is London and I happened to be in Paris at the time.  My first big gig!

[SusanTo_1857119]

Westlife been 3 times 

[Dave_Whitewoods]

Robbie Williams at Knebworth, with well over 100,000 people … sooooo many people!! 

[Damian]

I was there too. But a few years earlier I was also at oasis - same place!

[Rocketrons]

Belinda Carlisle in 1988, as it was my 1st ever concert, although I have been to many concerts since, I love the Lets Rock/Rewind festivals as its a time to feel young again!! 🤪👍🤣 hehe 

[Ashleig_1447138]

Beyoncé 2018 when she was touring with Jay Z she puts on such an amazing performance. I enjoyed it that much went to watch it again in London 2 weeks later 

[Anthony_2186433]

Depeche Mode. Crystal Palace 1993. First time I saw Mode in an outdoor Arena. The sun shone and at that time in my life (I was 22) that tour and those songs was the soundtrack to my life. There is nothing greater than singing along in the same room as the legends you love. Good memories. 

[HANNAHM_1781360]

Cold play at Rodio one, a small audience and they had so much presence! It was fantastic 

[Annabel_2215345]

Vampire Weekend, they didn't need the' bells and whistles' to play a gig where their genuine absolute love of playing and singing shone through. 

[pssc1984]

My best concert ever was in the front row in a festival hearing and singing my heart out at Bestie Boys. The vibe, the music, the players, the fest was just unique

[WayneNe_1407551]

Ive never been to any gig qnd dont really have any favourite bands

[PoonamS_1590892]

There are live music experiences, and then there are moments in time when an artist's performance transcends the boundaries of entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on your soul. For me, one such unforgettable night was when I had the privilege of attending a John Legend concert. It wasn't just a concert; it was a journey through emotions and melodies that touched my heart in ways I never thought possible.

John Legend, the modern-day maestro of soul and R&B, has an enchanting ability to transport his audience into the depths of human emotions with his music. The concert took place on a warm summer evening, and as I took my seat, I was filled with anticipation and excitement. Little did I know that this night would become my all-time favorite live gig.

The moment John Legend stepped onto the stage, a wave of electricity coursed through the audience. He opened with "All of Me," a song that had touched countless hearts worldwide. The raw emotion in his voice, the gentle piano melody, and the intimate lyrics created an atmosphere of vulnerability and love that enveloped the entire arena. It was a moment of collective unity, as thousands of us sang along, our voices blending into a harmonious chorus.

What made this concert stand out was not just John Legend's extraordinary vocal prowess but also his ability to connect with each person in the audience. He spoke to us as if we were old friends, sharing stories behind his songs, his journey as an artist, and his vision for a world filled with love and compassion. Between songs, he addressed themes of social justice and equality, using his platform to inspire and educate.

One of the highlights of the night was when John Legend performed "Glory," his collaboration with Common from the film "Selma." The song's message of hope and resilience, combined with John's soul-stirring delivery, left not a dry eye in the house. The audience's applause was thunderous, a testament to the power of music to ignite change and raise awareness.

Throughout the concert, John Legend effortlessly switched between piano ballads, up-tempo hits, and soulful classics. His band, a group of exceptionally talented musicians, complemented his performance with precision and passion. Each song felt like a journey, taking us through the highs and lows of human emotions.

As the concert drew to a close, John Legend ended with an encore performance of "Ordinary People." It was a poignant and intimate moment, just him and his piano, stripped down to the essence of his artistry. The simplicity and vulnerability of this performance left an indelible mark on my heart.

John Legend in concert was not just a music performance; it was a spiritual experience. It was a night when music transcended time and space, a night when the power of lyrics and melody reminded us of our shared humanity. It was a night I will forever cherish, and that is why John Legend in concert will always be my favorite live gig.

[SimonDow_952714]

A Timeless Night of Music: My Unforgettable Experience with Elton John and Ed Sheeran in Arkansas 2013

I'll never forget the magical night in 2013, when I had the privilege of attending a concert that left an indelible mark on my heart: Elton John, supported by the incredibly talented Ed Sheeran, in the fascinating state of Arkansas, USA. Allow me to recount the reasons why this concert was nothing short of a musical masterpiece.

1. **A Legendary Duo:** Elton John and Ed Sheeran on the same stage – it was a once-in-a-lifetime combination. Witnessing these two musical titans perform on the same bill was a dream come true.

2. **Timeless Hits:** Elton John's repertoire of timeless classics, including "Rocket Man" and "Tiny Dancer," took us on a nostalgic journey. The crowd sang along, creating an electric atmosphere that resonated with pure joy.

3. **Ed Sheeran's Rising Star:** Ed Sheeran, still on the cusp of superstardom in 2013, showcased his raw talent with hits like "Lego House" and "The A Team." His intimate, heartfelt performance was the perfect complement to Elton's experienced showcase.

4. **Diverse Audience:** The concert brought together fans of all ages and backgrounds, uniting us through the power of music. The sense of unity and camaraderie among the crowd was palpable.

5. **Elton's Showmanship:** Elton John's charisma and showmanship were unparalleled. His flamboyant personality and energetic piano playing had the crowd on its feet from start to finish.

6. **Musical Mastery:** The musicianship displayed by both Elton and Ed was awe-inspiring. Their flawless performances left no doubt that they were true masters of their craft.

7. **Emotional Connection:** Each song was not just a performance but an emotional journey. Whether it was a heartfelt ballad or an upbeat anthem, the artists had an incredible ability to connect with the audience on a profound level.

8. **Intimate Venue:** The concert took place in a basketball arena in the heart of Arkansas state university. The surroundings added to the overall experience, making it a personal experience.

9. **Unforgettable Encore:** As the night drew to a close, Elton returned to the stage for an unforgettable encore. The encore's energy and passion left us all with a sense of euphoria that lingered long after the final notes had faded.

10. **Lifetime Memory:** This concert wasn't just a performance; it was an unforgettable memory etched into my soul. It taught me that music has the power to transcend time and connect people in ways we never imagined.

In conclusion, the Elton John and Ed Sheeran concert in Arkansas in 2013 was an extraordinary musical journey that combined the brilliance of two generations of musicians. It was a night of pure magic, joy, and timeless music that will forever hold a special place in my heart.

[AndrewN_1062139]

My favourite gig was a Billie Eilish - mainly because it was amusing to be roughly 4 times the average age of those attending !!

[graemep_1976478]

As I am an old f*rt, I have seen many great shows, but the one that sticks in my mind the most, was Bon Jovi's first ever show in the UK promoting their 1st album May 23rd 1985 at the Dominion in Tottenham Court Road London. Great set, the the power went out, no light no PA, but the trooper played on. He sat on the edge of the stage acoustic guitar and played to the exit lights. the light came back on after about 15 minutes of him solo, He then said he had played for his mum and dad who were in the audience. Brilliant

[RichardW_488671]

For me it has to be seeing Texas in the late eighties. It was before they hit the big time and they were doing a University tour. I saw them at Coventry University in the basketball court! There was only about 200 of us in the crowd and I was about a meter from the stage. Sharleen Spiteri was amazing, as was the support act, Gun (more Scottish rockets - remember their cover of “word up”?). I’ve never been to a more intimate gig. Great memories 🙂

[LynneHew_898529]

I had a wonderful experience going to see James Taylor in October 2022 - I had seen James previously and on that earlier occasion I noticed he didn't leave the stage during the usual interval but instead stayed on the stage signing tickets, t-shirts, programmes (actually anything including skin) and although I queued on that occasion I wasn't quick enough and the interval was over.  I was gutted and vowed that if I ever had the chance to see him again I would be in that queue as quick as lightning.  I did get that chance in 2022 and guess what he didn't do the interval thing - once again I was gutted but at the end of the show he came out and stayed for ages signing everybody's stuff - he was amazing and so patient - I now have his treasured autograph on my favourite DVD that I had taken in - will treasure it forever.  The gigs are great obviously, but that goes without saying - the man is a legend!!