The Setlist & The Script

Millie Manders is a force of nature. Fronting Millie Manders and The Shutup, she brings an electrifying energy to the stage and an unfiltered honesty to her songwriting. Blending ska, punk, rock, and pop influences, the band has carved out a distinctive sound that’s as riotous as it is thought-provoking. Their latest album, Wake Up, Shut Up, Work, released in late 2024, showcases this in full force, tackling themes of mental health, social injustice, and personal struggles with a raw authenticity that resonates deeply with their fans.

But for Millie, music is more than just an outlet, it’s a weapon against complacency, a megaphone for issues that often go unheard. She refuses to shy away from difficult conversations, whether it’s addressing the stigma around sexual violence, fighting for trans rights, or calling out the failures of the music industry.

“The industry still has a long way to go,” she says bluntly. “We talk about inclusivity, but you still see the same problems, lack of diversity on lineups, women being undervalued, trans artists facing outright discrimination. And sexual violence? It’s rampant, and people don’t want to talk about it. We have to force these conversations if we want change.”

This unfiltered honesty extends into her music. Tracks like Not Okay lay bare the trauma of abuse and the long road to healing, while Rebound rips apart toxic relationships with the ferocity of a hurricane. Every lyric she writes comes from a place of lived experience or deep empathy.

“I never want to write songs that feel empty,” she explains. “Even if it’s a party track, there’s usually something under the surface. I want people to feel something real when they listen to our music.”

That emotional depth is something her audience has come to love, and it’s also something that has helped the band cultivate a uniquely diverse and fiercely loyal fan base. From die-hard ska-punk fans to newcomers who discovered them through social media or festivals, Millie Manders and The Shutup are drawing in audiences from all walks of life.

“It’s been amazing to see how our audience has grown,” she says. “We’ve got people who have been with us since the beginning, but then you see a teenager in the front row next to a 60-year-old who’s just as into it, it’s incredible. And our Patreon supporters, they’re the ones who really keep us going. Their dedication and support allow us to keep making music, keep touring.”

That connection with fans extends beyond the music itself. On their current UK tour, the band has introduced something special: a plushie bear called Shut Up Bear. More than just a fun piece of merch, the bear has a deeper meaning, supporting both the tour and charitable causes close to Millie’s heart.

“We wanted to create something that felt really personal and meaningful. The Shut Up Bear is this cute, rebellious little guy who embodies the spirit of our band, but also, every sale is helping raise money for important charities,” she explains. “It’s a way for fans to take home a piece of the tour and also contribute to something bigger.”

Beyond the music, Millie is deeply passionate about activism. Issues such as climate change, mental health awareness, and LGBTQ+ rights frequently feature in her lyrics and conversations.

“I think artists have a responsibility to use their voice for something bigger than themselves. If I can make even one person feel seen, heard, or empowered, then I feel like I’m doing my job right.”

But with that level of intensity comes the challenge of balancing personal well-being.

“I’m a bit of a workaholic, which isn’t always a good thing,” she admits. “I have to remind myself to slow down sometimes. Touring is amazing, but it’s also exhausting, and mental health is something I take really seriously.”

She credits her bandmates and the support of her fans for helping her stay grounded.

“The people around me are incredible. My bandmates are my family, and our fans are just the best. They keep me going.”

The band has been hitting the road hard since the album’s release, playing festivals and headlining shows across the UK, and they’re about to embark on another explosive tour. Looking ahead, Millie and the band are showing no signs of slowing down. There are more tours in the works, new music brewing, and a continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of their sound.

“I want to keep evolving, keep challenging myself. The moment you get too comfortable is the moment you stop growing.”

With her signature blend of fire, passion, and unwavering honesty, Millie Manders is a powerhouse in the music scene—one who refuses to be ignored. Whether on stage or in the studio, she continues to bring her all, making music that matters and leaving an undeniable mark on everyone who listens.