These tracks stand out for me as it was when first started to go to essential. A few years before I DJ'd there myself and long before the Funky House movement.
Trance tracks with some mashup vocals from back in the day. If you were there in the early days of essential (2001-ish), you know the ones. Enjoy x

Essential Nostalgia

Nigel has been a DJ for over 25 years and has DJ’d at some the best venues across Manchester and Leeds. 

He aims to bring you the very best in Dance music, playing everything from Disco to Techno!

Recent events;
Chorlton Pride, Manchester - 13th September 2025
Spread the Love - 13th September 2025
Chorlton Pride Funder Raiser @ The Beagle 2024 
Chorlton Pride 2023
Essential at The Albert Hall, Manchester 2022
Mornin’ Glory at The Albert Hall, Manchester 2022
Mornin’ Glory, at Impossible Theatre, Manchester 2021

Previous Residencies;
Morning Glory 2005-2012 
Essential, 2004-2012 
Queer, Manchester 2003-2012
Spirit, Manchester 2001-2003
Velvet, Leeds 1998-2001
Fibre, Leeds 1998-2001

He has also DJ'd at many other nights in Manchester and plays annually at various Pride events. During his time in Leeds he had guest sets at, Speed Queen, The Original Glasshouse, Handbags at Dawn and the Corn Exchange.

As well as his live performances he provides his followers with monthly mixes on SoundCloud for everyone to enjoy.

Essential Nostalgia

Nigel Harrison 🎧