I’m a big music fan – always have been and always will be. The first artist I went to go see was Bryan Adams, when I was still in junior school, and since then the acts have ranged from Sugababes, right through to Slipknot. I’ve always been happy to travel to gigs and festivals (or at least persuaded my mum to drive me all the way to Scotland so I could go to T in the Park) but it never fails to amaze me how many great local bands and venues there are.
Putting aside Leeds festival, which attracts tens of thousands of people across the UK, there are other great smaller events within Yorkshire. In particular, The Crown of Lights festival is a two day event (one in July, the other in September) held in a small green in the middle of Heckmondwike. The festivals are free and family friendly, and are always a great laugh. Alongside these summer events, monthly acoustic nights and band nights are held at the Comrades club, where again they aim to showcase the best of local talent for free. The Crown Of Lights festivals and band/acoustic nights are run by two of the most dedicated music lovers I know, who campaign tirelessly to get great local acts to perform at accessible music events which people can attend for free.
Leeds hosts some great music venues for smaller bands, such as the Brudnell Social Club, as well as managing to attract some larger names at the 02 Academy, The Cockpit and The Refectory. With the intended opening of Leeds Arena in 2012, this should hopefully put West Yorkshire even more on the map for great music.
As well as seeing bigger artists, I love supporting unsigned bands. Sunday night for me was spent watching Further From The Truth, my favourite local band (admittedly, those who know me might view that as a slightly biased opinion…) supporting American rock act Taking Dawn at The Cockpit. There are few things in life that make me happier than seeing a relatively unknown band being able to warm up a crowd and start to get a dedicated following.
It’s the same with businesses in Yorkshire. There are so many great companies out there, achieving great things. Open Comms work with local suppliers and enjoy networking with Yorkshire’s finest business men and women. It’s brilliant to see companies go from strength to strength and develop in such a fantastic region.
So, whether you’re looking for an agency to work with for your business, or simply want to go see an amazing band out of office hours, my point remains the same. Before getting the train to London, or saving your pennies for Glastonbury, look on your doorstep – Yorkshire has a lot to offer.