Matty Healy Delights Fans with Surprise 90s Cover in Newcastle

Matty Healy, the frontman of The 1975, delivered an unforgettable performance at the Sunday for Sammy event in Newcastle on March 26, 2026. He captivated the audience with a surprise cover of a classic 90s hit, following a heartfelt tribute to Geoff Wonfor, a key figure behind the event, who passed away in 2022.

The atmosphere in Newcastle was electric as fans eagerly anticipated the return of Sunday for Sammy, a celebration of Geordie culture that has become a staple since its inception in 2000. This year’s event marked the first without Wonfor, making the tribute particularly poignant. The tribute was voiced by Jill Halfpenny and featured a touching video segment that highlighted Wonfor’s passion for the annual event. The audience also experienced a moment of nostalgia as they heard him sing along to “Run for Home.”

Healy took to the stage immediately after the tribute, visibly moved. As he began with a cover of James Taylor‘s “Carolina on My Mind,” he expressed his emotions, stating that he “really missed” Wonfor. Joined by fellow musicians from The 1975, including John Waugh and Jamie Squire, Healy’s setlist included a stripped-back rendition of The Las‘ classic “There She Goes,” a song that peaked at number 13 in the UK charts in 1990. The performance elicited enthusiastic reactions on social media, with fans praising Healy’s interpretation.

One fan on X expressed the sentiment, “Matty Healy needs to record and release ‘There She Goes’ ASAP. That was biblical and so beautiful.” Others echoed similar feelings, emphasizing the significance of the song to them personally.

In addition to his covers, Healy performed acoustic versions of The 1975’s own tracks, including “It’s Not Living (If It’s Not With You)” and “About You.” The evening took an unexpected turn when Lewis Capaldi joined Healy on stage to perform “Someone You Loved,” much to the delight of the audience, who responded with overwhelming appreciation.

The event not only celebrated the legacy of Geoff Wonfor but also showcased the enduring appeal of Geordie culture through music and community. As Newcastle revels in the success of Sunday for Sammy, fans eagerly await future performances that keep the spirit of this beloved event alive.