The former Stone Roses front man was unable to play at the show last January due to existing commitments, but having played on Brown’s last record, Rourke knew he had to get him involved. | "We want to recreate the buzz and excitement of 2006 but also give people something new and I know Ian will definitely give a performance to remember." | | Andy Rourke |
"I have been discussing the concert with Ian for some time," Rourke explained. "As one Manchester’s finest and most successful artists, it was really important that we had him on board, especially since he wasn’t available to play at last year’s concert. "We want to recreate the buzz and excitement of 2006 but also give people something new and I know Ian will definitely give a performance to remember." Last year’s line up featured world exclusives and unique collaborations from the likes of New Order, Johnny Marr and Andy Rourke, Doves and Badly Drawn Boy, and with King Monkey being the first name out of the hat, it looks as though this year’s is going to be just as impressive. The Versus Cancer gig at the Arena takes place on Friday 30 March. Tickets go on sale on Friday 12 January. The following day, as way of launching this year’s show, Andy Rourke will be heading a world record busking attempt around Manchester. | 
