Take a walk of musical discovery

Craig Gill: takes music lovers on musical tours of Manchester by minibus or on foot

MUSIC EXTRA: ARE you clued-up on the Manchester music scene, past or present?

If not I strongly advise booking yourself on one of Craig Gill’s popular Manchester Music Tours.

Saddleworth-based Craig is the drummer in legendary Oldham band the Inspiral Carpets and a former Hacienda DJ, and offers informative and thought-provoking walking or minibus tours round Manchester’s inspirational music landmarks. Tours are tailored to varying tastes and eras - the Oasis-themed one particularly popular. Oasis main man Noel Gallagher was a former roadie with the Carpets before he made it big, and he keeps in touch with Craig when he can.

Other artists covered include James, Stone Roses, Joy Division, the Smiths and Morrissey and the Hollies, while Craig is also a fountain of knowledge about the Bee Gees, New Order, Elbow, the Courteeners and all the artists signed to the late Tony Wilson’s Factory Records label.

Craig has even recently introduced a “Beatles in Manchester” tour, already proving popular.

Originally devised by Craig in 2005, Manchester Music Tours has recently been highly commended at the Greater Manchester Tourism Awards and earned a 2015 Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor.

I was invited to take a stroll with Craig last week, leaving the city’s town hall in the morning and winding our way round iconic venues and landmarks, stopping for Craig to offer anecdotes and info about the city’s deep musical history. He clearly knows his stuff.

Ninety minutes later I felt truly enlightened after great tales from Craig’s own 30 years of (often wild) experiences of the Manchester scene.

Walks take place every day across spring and summer: www.manchestermusictours.com