Fender backs northern musicians to go global

A new initiative that aims to boost the international presence of Northern musicians has received the backing of North East megastar Sam Fender.

The Northern Music Export Office, supported by the Tees Valley, Liverpool City Region and North East Combined Authorities, is set to “supercharge” the North’s thriving music scene by providing resources such as national and international touring grants, mentorship and development programmes to help artists expand their reach.

Sam, who hails from North Shields and has won three Brit Awards, is lending his backing to the project, which was unveiled at the SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas, last month.

He said: “Giving artists from the North funding and support to tour nationally and internationally is key to ensuring opportunity is for everyone involved in the sector, not just for the few. 

“Projects such as this will help musicians reach audiences beyond their own regions, which has always been massively important.”

Sam’s comments were echoed by regional leaders, with Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen adding: “We have incredible talent across our region – and we want to have the very best support to allow these fantastic artists to achieve their potential.

“The new Export Office will provide vital backing to bring Teesside artists to a global audience and further demonstrate how we are leading the way in providing innovative support across a wide range of industries.”

North East mayor Kim McGuinness added: “I want to see a new generation of home-grown North East talent find its place on the world stage.

“We’re incredibly proud of Sam’s rise – he’s a shining light in putting another Tyneside voice on the global stage, and it’s great this initiative has his support.

“We have so many great young musicians here in our region, and this new Export Office builds on our success in bringing the MOBO awards to Newcastle and attracting a major label recording studio to the region, opening the door to real opportunities for the talent we know is out there.”

The push comes after artists from across the North, including singer-songwriters Cortney Dixon, Amelia Coburn and Finn Forster, joined a delegation promoting the North’s vibrant creative industries at SXSW.

The initiative is also focused on raising the global profile of the North’s music scene, offering emerging talent the tools to succeed internationally.

Generator North East is working alongside global agencies to create valuable export opportunities for regional artists, strengthening the North’s position as a hub for musical innovation.

Mick Ross, chief executive of Generator NE, added: “Music is an essential part of the North’s cultural identity, and we are thrilled to see this initiative developed.

“The Northern Music Export Office will provide invaluable support to our artists, helping them access international markets, grow their careers, and showcase their talent to the world, whilst recognising the need for national tour support for artists.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →