Shred Like a Legend: Michael Schenker Rocks a Sold-Out O2 Ritz in Manchester

Jace Media Music Live Review by Paul McWilliams

There are guitarists, and then there’s Michael Schenker — a living legend who, after half a century of redefining the very core of hard rock and heavy metal, continues to stun audiences with an energy and precision that defies both age and expectation. On 11 May 2025, the iconic O2 Ritz Manchester was packed wall-to-wall with lifelong fans and curious newcomers, all there for one reason: to witness greatness.

And greatness is exactly what they got.

50 Years, One Icon

This wasn’t just any gig. This was part of Schenker’s monumental “50 Years in Music” celebration tour—a fitting tribute to a man who helped define the genre through his work with UFO, the Scorpions, MSG, and beyond. And on this night in Manchester, he wasn’t here to reminisce. He was here to blow the roof off.

Walking onstage clad in his trademark furry hat and scarf, Schenker looked every bit the rock ‘n’ roll shaman as he unleashed the opening chords of “Natural Thing.” Instantly, the O2 Ritz erupted. The crowd knew what was coming: a glorious journey through the golden age of UFO, played by the man who helped write the rulebook.

Setlist of Dreams

From the very start, the setlist was a love letter to fans of Schenker’s classic years. “Only You Can Rock Me,” “Hot ‘n’ Ready,” and “Doctor Doctor” followed in quick succession, with each riff igniting wave after wave of nostalgia and raw energy in the room. It wasn’t just a show; it was a celebration of riffs, solos, and soaring vocal lines that still feel as urgent today as they did back in the ’70s. Midway through, things turned introspective with “Love To Love” and “I’m A Loser,” where Schenker’s tone took centre stage. Warm, melodic, and soulfully phrased, his solos weren’t just notes—they were storytelling.

And let’s not overlook the medley moment: “Lipstick Traces/Between The Walls/Belladonna,” a seamless suite of guitar virtuosity, blending acoustic sensitivity with electric firepower. In lesser hands, it could’ve felt self-indulgent. In Schenker’s, it was nothing short of spiritual.

One of the night’s biggest surprises (and triumphs) was the commanding performance by Erik Grönwall, the former Skid Row frontman. If anyone was concerned about whether he could fill the vocal shoes left by legends like Phil Mogg, those fears were torched within minutes. Grönwall wasn’t just good—he was electrifying.

He worked the stage like he was born on it, interacting with the crowd, belting every line with ferocious intensity, and capturing the raw emotion of each track without ever sounding like a tribute act. It was clear: this band isn’t about reliving the past. It’s about reigniting it.

The rest of the band deserves just as much praise. The rhythm section laid down by Del (drums) and Si (bass) was thunderous, tight, and grooved like a well-oiled machine. Sam (guitar) complemented Schenker beautifully, giving the dual-guitar segments extra dimension and punch. Every member knew their role, and together they turned the stage into a powerhouse.

The chemistry was off the charts—not just musically, but in their interactions with each other and the audience. You could tell they were having fun, and that joy was infectious. More than a few times, it felt like the Ritz was bouncing off its own foundations.

A Crowd Caught in the Moment

There’s something magical about a sold-out crowd that knows every word, every note, every twist in a solo. This was a show where the audience wasn’t just watching—they were part of the experience. During “Lights Out” and “Rock Bottom,” the singalongs reached such volume that you could barely hear the band over the roar. But Schenker wasn’t phased. He leaned into it, letting the fans take the spotlight in moments that felt communal, electric, and unforgettable. For many in the room, it was clear this wasn’t just another gig. It was the gig.

By the time the encore rolled around—featuring classics like “Shoot Shoot,” “Too Hot To Handle,” and “Can You Roll Her”—there was no doubt left in the room. Michael Schenker is still at the top of his game. His tone is peerless. His phrasing is unmatched. And his passion? Undimmed by time.

If you ever get the chance to see Schenker live, do not hesitate. This is more than just a concert. It’s a masterclass. It’s history alive. It’s the sound of someone who doesn’t just play the guitar—they speak through it.

In a world full of pretenders, Michael Schenker remains the real deal.

Setlist:

1. Natural Thing
2. Only You Can Rock Me
3. Hot ‘n’ Ready
4. Doctor Doctor
5. Mother Mary
6. I’m A Loser
7. This Kids
8. Lights Out
9. Lipstick Traces/Between The Walls/Belladonna (Medley)
10. Love To Love
11. Let It Roll
12. Can You Roll Her
13. Reasons Love
14. Rock Bottom
15. Shoot Shoot
16. Too Hot To Handle