The Stone Roses at Spike Island
12 August 1989
On a grassy knoll near the muddy banks of the Mersey, opposite a cement factory, The Stone Roses held a huge outdoor gig. Spike Island was rammed full of 27,000 people excitedly waiting for the big Stone Roses moment. It marked the beginning of the 1990s, a celebration of all things Madchester and the moment where The Stone Roses moved directly into the media spotlight. It was a hugely ambitious gig for an Indie band, perhaps a bit too ambitious technically. On the day there were problems with the sound rig - the sound was literally being 'blown away' and the audience were struggling to hear the band properly. It didn't stop the event becoming legendary.
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Taylor of Bolton
This gig was sadly before my time but it must have been somthing pretty special...Boo of Salford (exiled in Gateshead)
THE defining moment of my growing up time. I was 23 at the time and had followed the Roses all over the country, the Empress in Blackpool was legendary,but to me, regardless of the sound, this was the best event of all.From the DJ's who preceded the event, to the voodoo music just before it blended into 'I wanna be adored'.Not a bad way to spend a Sunday all told and at least we had the Bank Holiday Monday to recover - heheheAndy - Northwich
I was 15 when my Dad was organising the Spike Island Gig and I got a few tickets to sell at school!! How cool did I look!! He also allowed The Mondays to practice in the Queens hall Widnes before they were massive!! Quite a forward thinking Dad I'd say!!
John Robb
Author/Broadcaster, Singer for Goldmine
Ian Tilton
Rock Photographer