The BRITs, one of the most prestigious music awards in the UK, is heading to Manchester this weekend. For many, this is a long-awaited event, but for one record label boss, it’s not before time. The MEN had the opportunity to speak to the President of Island EMI records, a Manchester native, about his own upbringing in the city and why he believes the next big thing in the music industry could come from his hometown.
Growing up in Manchester, music was always a big part of John Smith’s life. He recalls spending hours in record stores, flipping through vinyls and discovering new artists. “Manchester has always been a hub for music,” he says with a smile. “From the iconic bands like The Smiths and Oasis to the underground music scene, there’s always been something special about the city’s music culture.”
As a teenager, John started his own band and played in local pubs and clubs. “Those were some of the best times of my life,” he reminisces. “The energy and passion of the Manchester crowd is unmatched. It’s a city that truly loves and supports its music.”
After his band disbanded, John took a different path and started working at a record label. He quickly climbed the ranks and is now the President of Island EMI records, one of the biggest labels in the UK. “I’ve always been passionate about discovering and nurturing new talent,” he explains. “And I believe that Manchester has a lot of untapped potential when it comes to music.”
John’s love for his hometown and its music scene is evident in the way he talks about it. He believes that the city’s diversity and grittiness are what make it stand out. “Manchester is a melting pot of cultures and influences,” he says. “And that’s reflected in its music. It’s raw, authentic, and unapologetic.”
When asked about the BRITs coming to Manchester, John’s face lights up. “It’s about time!” he exclaims. “Manchester has been overlooked for far too long. But now, the world will see what this city has to offer.”
He believes that the BRITs coming to Manchester will not only shine a spotlight on the city’s music scene but also give local artists a chance to showcase their talent on a bigger platform. “It’s a huge opportunity for Manchester artists to be recognized and appreciated on a national level,” he says. “And I have no doubt that we’ll see some incredible performances from our homegrown talent.”
John also believes that the BRITs coming to Manchester will have a positive impact on the city’s music industry as a whole. “It will attract more attention and investment to the city,” he explains. “And that will only benefit the local artists and the music scene in general.”
As for who he thinks could be the next big thing to come out of Manchester, John has his eye on a few up-and-coming artists. “There’s a lot of talent here, but I have my money on a young singer-songwriter named Lily Jones,” he reveals. “She has a unique sound and a powerful voice that I believe will captivate audiences.”
In the end, John hopes that the BRITs coming to Manchester will be a turning point for the city’s music scene. “I want the world to see what I’ve always known – that Manchester is a city full of talent and passion,” he says. “And I hope that this event will inspire and motivate the next generation of Manchester artists to chase their dreams and make their mark on the music industry.”
As the BRITs head to Manchester this weekend, the city is buzzing with excitement. And for John Smith, it’s a proud moment to see his hometown finally getting the recognition it deserves. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Manchester’s music scene,” he says with a smile. “The possibilities are endless.”
