Newcastle Upon Tyne: A City of Musical Mayhem
Newcastle Upon Tyne, a city steeped in history and industry, also boasts a vibrant musical legacy that echoes with the grit, passion, and humour of its people. From the raucous pubs of the 19th century to the burgeoning indie scene of today, Newcastle has nurtured a diverse range of sounds and stories.
A Roaring Start:
The city’s musical journey began with the roar of the industrial revolution. The early 20th century saw the rise of brass bands and music halls, providing a platform for local talent.
Funny Fact: Did you know that the world-famous “Geordie” accent (specific to the Newcastle region) was sometimes used as a comedy trope in these music halls? Think of it as a precursor to the “mockney” accent often used in British comedy today.
The Rise of Rock & Roll:
The 1960s saw a rock & roll revolution sweep through Newcastle. Local bands like The Animals, known for their bluesy hits like “House of the Rising Sun”, achieved international acclaim.
Funny Fact: The Animals’ lead singer, Eric Burdon, was known for his flamboyant stage presence and powerful vocals, but also for his infamous “bananas and custard” diet – a strange mix that supposedly gave him the energy to tour relentlessly.
Punk Rock Power:
The 1970s saw a surge in punk rock, with bands like The Exploited and The Angelic Upstarts emerging from the city’s underground scene. This raw, energetic sound resonated with the working-class youth, reflecting their frustration and desire for change.
Funny Fact: The Exploited’s frontman, Wattie Buchan, was a self-proclaimed “punk icon” known for his wild stage antics, including smashing guitars and spitting on the audience. He once famously said, “We’re here to cause chaos and spread anarchy!”
The Indie Invasion:
Newcastle’s independent music scene flourished in the 1980s and 90s, with bands like The Pale Fountains, The Futureheads, and Maxïmo Park gaining popularity. These groups brought a fresh, energetic sound to the indie rock scene, characterized by catchy melodies and clever lyrics.
Funny Fact: The Futureheads, known for their unique vocal harmonies and quirky lyrics, once released a song called “Decent Days and Nights” which featured the lyrics “I’ve got a feeling I’m going to be sick.” The song became a surprise hit and even reached the UK Top 10.
From Gig to Global:
Newcastle’s musical scene continues to evolve, with electronic music, hip hop, and alternative artists finding their niche. The city hosts numerous music festivals and venues, attracting a diverse range of artists and audiences.
Funny Fact: Newcastle is home to the “Tyne Idol” competition, a local talent show that has produced its fair share of quirky acts and hilarious audition moments. Think of it as a less-polished, but equally entertaining version of American Idol!
A City of Musical Heritage:
Newcastle Upon Tyne’s musical history is a testament to the city’s spirit of rebellion, creativity, and humour. From the raucous music halls of the past to the vibrant indie scene of today, Newcastle continues to be a breeding ground for musical talent and a place where music transcends boundaries and unites communities.
