Call for greater support for emerging musicians

Attendees at the Northern Music Awards in Manchester have criticised a lack of support for young musicians.

Speaking to The Guardian at the event, singer and songwriter Lisa Stansfield said: “There aren’t enough platforms for young musicians. It’s made very, very difficult by this government for them to do anything.

"They don’t have any money, and they’re being charged to go everywhere to do gigs. It’s disgusting, really. And this government don’t care."

Lilly Fontaine from Leeds band English Teacher noted that the nationwide local radio programme BBC Introducing had been integral to their success, but said that type of showcase for regional talent was at risk after the broadcaster announced it was cutting its local programmes to save costs last year. 

Fontaine said: “I think that was a shame because I think that having a lot of industry people in the regional areas really helps – it really helped us. I think filling those gaps, those elements that have been taken away, with something else would be great.”

Meanwhile, The Charlatans singer, Tim Burgess, said it was also necessary to address nationwide issues, such as better pay for musicians. “We need to look at it and try to make sure there’s equality,” he said.