Bev Craig, the Mayor of Manchester, has announced a £2 million investment to support the city's diverse music scene, emphasizing that it encompasses much more than just the iconic band Oasis. This funding aims to nurture local artists by improving access to rehearsal and production spaces.
Funding Announcement
The announcement was made during a conference for the creative industries held at MediaCity in Salford. Craig highlighted the importance of growing Manchester's music industry and attracting international events. Earlier this year, the Co-op Live arena hosted the Brit Awards and the MOBOs, which celebrate Black music and culture in Europe.
“"I wanted to have a major event that celebrated black music, culture and creativity," Craig stated. "That’s why we said, just after the Brits, we’d host their 30th anniversary, because we knew it would be the last one that the MOBOs founder Kanya would be able to come to."
Emphasizing Diversity
Craig expressed her commitment to fostering a diverse music scene, stating, "We’re known, I think, over the world for the influence that some of our indie guitar bands have had on Greater Manchester music, but there’s more to Greater Manchester’s music scene than just Oasis."
She noted the creativity and talent present in the city, emphasizing the need to support the next generation of artists in an increasingly competitive industry.
