The Undertones announce 50th anniversary tour dates in Belfast & Derry
In 2026 The Undertones come roaring back with an extensive UK and European tour to celebrate their 50th band anniversary - they also continue to promote the release of their first live album ”16 Live Humdingers”.
The record includes selected old and new songs performed by the post 1999 line up with Paul McLoone on vocals, it was recorded in Glasgow in 2023 and is currently only available for purchase at the band's live shows.
The Undertones emerged from Derry in 1976, the result of five friends (John O’Neill, Damian O’Neill, Feargal Sharkey, Billy Doherty and Michael Bradley) learning how to play basic rock and roll.
Practicing in their bedrooms eventually led to the band recording John O’Neill’s ‘Teenage Kicks’ in 1978 on Terri Hooley's Good Vibrations label in Belfast. The legendary DJ John Peel received a copy and liked it so much he played it twice in a row on his radio show.
2018 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of their most influental and famous song, ’Teenage Kicks’.
Of this release Damian O’Neill says: .“The collective attitude of The Undertones to the magical power and influence of the humble 45rpm 7” single was always one of total reverence and respect. It really did matter. Back then in our Undertones world, a great single was even more important than the L.P it helped promote and getting on Top Of The Pops was the ultimate accolade that we were doing it right.
"And if you didn’t make it on TOTP’s, then there was always the next single. Listening again to these 13 A and B sides, I hear a great pop group who tried their best to be true to themselves and ultimately didn’t disappoint.”
50th Anniversary Tour Dates
Limelight Belfast - Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th December 2026
Millennium Forum Derry - Friday 19th & Saturday 20th December 2027
Day and weekend tickets available Friday at 10am from ticketmaster.ie