O2 Academy Glasgow has made an outstanding contribution to Scotland’s vibrant live music scene since its arrival in the city in 2003. The venue made a fantastic first impression with a successful launch week that saw the stage christened by Deacon Blue on 26 March followed by Bryan Ferry and the Sugababes playing in celebration of the doors opening. The Grade B listed building was restored to its former glory, returning much of the original splendour after being closed for 10 years.

The history of the building and the site where O2 Academy Glasgow now stands is both fascinating and tragic. In 1825, on the same spot, was the Eglinton St United Secession Church, until it was converted to The New Bedford Picture House in 1921. It sadly burnt down and was completely destroyed just over ten years later in 1932 but rebuilt and opened on 31 December the same year. It finally closed on 18 July 1973, but it once again re-opened for business a few months later, this time as a Bingo hall until it was closed and boarded up in 1993 until the opening night a decade later.

O2 Academy Glasgow has hosted a diverse programme of events, from music and club nights to comedy, and attracted international musicians and home grown talent to the city. Since the first notes were sung and chords struck on the stage back in 2003, there have been numerous highlights including shows from Belle and Sebastian, The White Stripes, Frankie Boyle, The Prodigy, Motorhead, Foals, Stereophonics and Snoop Dogg. 

2003

Iconic Scottish pop act Deacon Blue play the opening night on 26 March, performing their classic debut album ‘Raintown’ in its entirety

2004

International superstar Kanye West played his first Scottish show at the venue shortly after cleaning up at the MOBOs and bagging three awards

2006

Godfather of soul James Brown plays what will be his final ever Scottish performance here, before sadly passng away on Christmas Day

2007

Paolo Nutini makes his mark playing a run of five consecutive sold-out gigs. He has performed at the venue eight times so far

2014

Guitar legend Slash and Biffy Clyro join forces for MTV Music Week. This epic gig is broadcast as part of the MTV World Stage to more than 160 countries worldwide

2015

Faith No More, James Bay, The Libertines, George Ezra, Laura Marling, CHIC featuring Nile Rodgers, Sam Smith and Ryan Adams all play O2 Academy Glasgow