British soul icon Heather Small has been announced as the headline performer for Legends of Football 2025, the annual charity gala supporting Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity. The event will take place on Monday 6th October at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London, celebrating the outstanding contributions of football legends Jill Scott and Gary Lineker.
(Heather was the MU’s choice for a BASCA Gold Badge Award in 2010 at the Savoy in London. The MU sponsored an award at the event from 2007 through to 2015).
Heather Small rose to fame as the powerful voice of M People, the Manchester-based band whose 1990s hits like Moving On Up, One Night in Heaven, and Search for the Hero became dancefloor anthems. With M People, she sold over 11 million records worldwide and won numerous accolades, including the Mercury Music Prize for their album Elegant Slumming and multiple Brit Awards for Best British Dance Act.
Her solo career further cemented her status as a national treasure. The title track from her debut solo album, Proud, became an inspirational anthem, featured in events such as London’s successful 2012 Olympic bid, the 60th anniversary of VE Day in Trafalgar Square, and the official ceremony marking the handover of the Olympic Games from Beijing to London.
In 2024, Heather Small was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours for her voluntary and charitable services.
Legends of Football has raised over £8.5 million for Nordoff and Robbins over the past 25 years. The charity uses music therapy to support people affected by life-limiting illness, disability, or social isolation, helping them to express themselves and connect with others through music.
This year’s event will honour two of England’s football greats. Jill Scott, a key figure in England’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 victory, is renowned for her leadership and important contributions to women’s football. Gary Lineker, former England striker and renowned broadcaster, is celebrated for his exceptional goal-scoring record and his enduring contribution to the game, both on and off the pitch.
Heather Small said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be headlining Legends of Football 2025. Music and football are two of life’s great unifiers – they bring people together, lift spirits and create lasting memories. It’s a real privilege to lend my voice in support of the incredible, life-changing work that Nordoff and Robbins do every day.”
Geoff Shreeves, Chairman of Legends of Football, commented: “Heather Small’s iconic voice has been the soundtrack to some of the most memorable moments in British culture. We’re delighted she’ll be performing at this year’s event, honouring two legends of the game – Gary Lineker and Jill Scott.”
Sandra Schembri, CEO of Nordoff and Robbins, added: “Heather Small’s music has moved and motivated millions, and we’re thrilled that she will be headlining this year’s Legends of Football. Her voice and message of empowerment perfectly reflect what we do at Nordoff and Robbins, helping people to connect and communicate through the power of music. Every penny raised through the event will help us deliver transformational music therapy to those who need it most across the UK.”
Heather Small will perform a short set at the star-studded event on Monday 6th October at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House honouring Jill Scott and Gary Lineker.
