UPDATE: Matty Healy electrified fans with an unexpected 90s cover during the Sunday for Sammy 2026 event in Newcastle on January 14, 2026. Healy’s powerful performance, which included a heartfelt tribute to the late Geoff Wonfor, captivated the audience and sparked an immediate frenzy on social media.
As the crowd at the Utilita Arena buzzed with anticipation, Healy took the stage just moments after a moving video tribute to Wonfor, the driving force behind the beloved event, who passed away in 2022. The emotional atmosphere was palpable, as fans celebrated the return of Sunday for Sammy, a cherished Geordie tradition that has become a citywide phenomenon since its inception in 2000.
Healy, visibly moved, opened his set with a cover of James Taylor’s “Carolina on My Mind.” He shared with the audience, “I really miss him,” referring to Wonfor, before launching into a stripped-down rendition of The Las’ iconic hit “There She Goes.” This song, which reached number 13 in the UK charts in 1990, triggered a wave of excitement among fans both present and online.
Social media exploded with reactions. One fan on X exclaimed, “Matty Healy needs to record and release ‘There She Goes’ ASAP. That was biblical and so beautiful.” Another added, “That is so, so beautiful,” while a third tweeted, “No one understands what ‘There She Goes’ means to me.”
Healy’s set also featured acoustic versions of The 1975’s hits “It’s Not Living If It’s Not With You” and “About You.” The evening’s biggest surprise came when singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi joined Healy on stage for a duet of “Someone You Loved,” stunning the audience and elevating the night to unforgettable heights.
The emotional connection shared between the performers and the audience underscored the significance of Sunday for Sammy, especially this year without Wonfor. His legacy, anchored in the hearts of attendees, was reflected in the tribute delivered by actress Jill Halfpenny, who highlighted Wonfor’s passion for the event and his impact on the community.
With the excitement surrounding this year’s celebration, it’s clear that Sunday for Sammy continues to resonate deeply in the hearts of Geordies and beyond. The event not only honors its vibrant history but also forges new memories that will be cherished for years to come.
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