
The Grassroots summit, moderated by Manchester’s mayor Andy Burham, promises to explore the deeper issues into why the music education and talent pipeline has begun to break down. Burham will be joined by industry moguls Atlanta Cobb, Kara Mukerjee, Sam Duckworth, Jon Collins and Jo Twist. Beyond the Music’s website says; “Artists reveal the reality of living and creating in the grass roots and come together with executives from across the industry to formulate a plan to futureproof the industry.”
Following the previous government’s Misogyny in Music report from the Women & Equalities committee, Beyond the Music is providing a platform for experts to discuss and reshape the gender boundaries of the music industry, whilst also providing a space for those who want to share the experience. This summit is in collaboration with the Musician’s Union and Shesaid.so, an independent community for women and gender nonconforming people in the music industry.
Led by guitarist and songwriter Cat Harrison with bassist Tyler Damara Kelly, the london-based band are known for their mix of upbeat and blended vocals that seem to hold inspiration from bands like the Kinks, with the acoustic lightness that ‘Girl in Red’ fans would appreciate.
After their debut ‘Desire Paths’ landed in 2022, they released a follow up EP in 2023 which has received praise from The Sunday Times. Signed to the same label as mercury award-winner English Teacher, Human Interest have been described as a thrilling new band to watch out for.
After an incredibly vibrant festival season, Lala Hayden will perform in Manchester again!
Laura “Lala” Hayden is a talented British-Spanish singer who began her solo career with the release of her debut EP, “Girl Becomes, after spending seven years as the frontwoman of Anteros. In a delightful blend of electric and pop accents, LaLa Hayden’s emotive lyrics combined with an incredible stage presence will make this one performance you do not want to miss this weekend.
Raised in North Manchester in a Zimbabwean household, Meduulla’s rap and witty lyricism reflects her experience growing up with two contrasting cultures as a first generation immigrant to the UK. Inspired by iconic Zimbabwean musicians combined with an interest in political conflict, Meduulla’s sound takes inspiration from artists like Kendrick Lamar and Noname. Since her appearance on BBC’s The Rap Game in 2021, Medulla released her debut EP Oblongata in 2023, and has been praised on songs like ‘Limbo’ and ‘Life like a Box of Chocolates’ for her use of rhythm and word play.
Congratulations combined a powerful concoction of gender-blending vocals, eccentric guitars and thunderous bass. Known for their experimentalist attitude to the craft, they will be surely loved by fans of Jockstrap and Sleigh Bells. In a frenzy of frenetic madness, you will find them at the Night and Day on Friday and their high-energy performances are bound to have you glued to the mosh pit until they finish their set.
Based in Macclesfield, Queen Cult are THE queer rock band, with lead vocalist Maisie Johnson,Brodie Carson on drums, Piers Jarvis on Bass and Ruby Augar on lead guitar. Known for singles ike ‘Show & tell’, ‘A Song About Consent’ and ‘Calm’, Queen Cult’s music is often political charged and their emotive lyricism, alongside their powerful pop punk accents, have landed them some incredible collaborations with the likes of ARXX, Loose Articles and The Menstrual Cramps to name a few.
Known for their creative mix of classical, pop and electronica experimental music, Lavender is known for their ability utilise each and every instrument – although the violin is a firm favourite for them! Since they performed in Salford earlier this year at Sounds From the Other City with a live band, Lavender released their latest single ‘Sweat’ earlier this year, and will be releasing an EP later this year. Lavender’s sound bends each and every boundary that often creates a crackling atmosphere and a wild frenzy behind in its wake.
Having worked with the likes of Raye, FRED and James Bay, Charlieeeee is THE producer, writer and artist that’s been bouncing between festivals all summer . After releasing their debut EP ‘Dog Bowl’ earlier this year, they have been commended by critics for their playful rhythm and delicate mix of hyper-pop and jungle beats that often explodes into colourful sound in their performances. Not one to miss.











