An evening with Bill Nelson to be hosted at Wakefield Exchange (WX) this November
Wednesday, August 05, 2026
Wakefield Exchange (WX) will welcome legendary musician, songwriter, and artist Bill Nelson for a special evening in conversation on Saturday 21 November.
Born and raised in Wakefield, Bill rose to international prominence as the chief songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist of the rock band Be-Bop Deluxe, which he formed in 1973. Across a career spanning more than five decades, he has become one of Britain's most innovative and influential creative voices.
“We can’t wait to welcome Bill back to where the foundations were laid for his incredible music career, which has given so much pleasure to so many people.”
Cllr Lukasz Borcz
Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport
Joining interviewer Ian Haydock, Bill will reflect on his remarkable career, share memories of growing up in Wakefield, and discuss the city's vibrant music scene of the 1960s that helped shape his artistic journey. The conversation will be illustrated with a selection of photographs and archival images, bringing Bill's stories to life on screen.
Bill said: “I still find it hard to believe, at 78 years old, how a shy ten-year-old boy from Wakefield, with a toy guitar he’d been given for Christmas, ended up having a career as a musician lasting for more than fifty years. What an amazing journey it’s been.”
The evening will also feature a screening of Bill's acclaimed film ‘Wakefield via Time Machine,’ a unique and evocative journey through the city's past.
With a carefully curated soundtrack setting the atmosphere before and after the event, this promises to be a memorable celebration of one of Wakefield's most celebrated creative figures.
Audiences will have a rare opportunity to hear first-hand from an artist whose work has inspired generations of musicians and fans around the world.
Ticket Information
Sign up to the WX newsletter by midnight on Monday 10 August to receive access to the exclusive pre-sale link.
Pre-sale: 10am, Tuesday 11 August
General sale: 10am, Wednesday 12 August
For more information visit: An Evening with Bill Nelson | Wakefield Exchange