John Cooper Clark to Receive Honor
The performance poet John Cooper Clark, renowned for his albums from the 1970s and 80s, is set to receive the main prize at the second annual Northern Music Awards.
The awards celebrate the musical talents emerging from the north of England. Established as a charity organization to fundraise for British musical therapy Nordoff and Robbins, this year’s event will be held on Thursday, March 27, at the Liverpool Olympia, organized by BBC Radio 6 with lead host Chris Hawkins. The event is sponsored by Ticketmaster and Live Nation.
Clark’s Excitement and Continuing Influence
Clark expressed that he was “knocked out” by the news of receiving such recognition. “The North is where it all started for me, and it is a tremendous honor to be acknowledged in this way. I look forward to celebrating with the incredibly talented winners at the Northern Music Awards and supporting the vital work in musical therapy conducted by Nordoff and Robbins for the people in the North,” he stated.
“With his distinctive style, sharp wit, social commentary, and unique delivery, Clark has become a household name, bringing poetry to a new audience and inspiring generations of musicians, artists, and fans,” said Sandra Shembri, Director General of Nordoff and Robbins.
“His work continues to be celebrated globally, and its influence remains significant in literary and musical circles, highlighting his outstanding career and the ongoing relevance of his contributions to the cultural tapestry of the North.”
Clark will perform his poetry during the awards ceremony alongside acts including Blooming, Lightning Seeds, Zutons, Chidu Orak, and Luvcat.
The organizers also revealed winners of several other awards, including the indie group English Teacher, who will receive the Album of the Year for their debut album It Can Be TEHAS. The group also won the Newcomer of the Year at last year’s ceremony.
“Winning the Newcomer award last year felt like a dream, and now being recognized for our debut album truly reflects the hard work and dedication we’ve put into our music,” said Lily Fontaine, vocalist of English Teacher.
“We firmly believe in the power of music to connect and heal and will continue to support the crucial work of Nordoff and Robbins.”
“Clark’s work continues to resonate worldwide, underscoring his remarkable career and the enduring significance of his contributions to the cultural tapestry of the North.”
Sandra Shembri, Nordoff and Robbins
Singer, songwriter, and actor Yungblud will receive the Destroyer in Music Award for his bold artistic vision and boundary-pushing sound, as stated by the organizers.
“Yungblud has cultivated a global following and uses his platform to amplify unheard voices by addressing themes of identity, mental health, and social issues, deeply resonating with fans who see him as a voice for their generation.”
In a statement, Yungblud expressed gratitude for the recognition and the opportunity to support such an important cause with Nordoff and Robbins. “I’ve always believed that music should be a tool for change, breaking barriers and creating spaces for people to express themselves. This award is for all the misfits and dreamers. Let’s keep working together,” he said.
The ceremony will also honor various musical venues in the North. This year, the Inspirational Place of the Year award, sponsored by The Unique Place, will go to The Piece Hall in Halifax for venues over 2000 capacity, while Trade Club in Hebden Bridge will receive recognition for venues up to 2000 capacity.
A percentage of sponsorship fees for the awards will benefit the UK Music Trust, which has raised alarms over the ongoing wave of venue closures across the UK.
The organizers are keeping many other awards under wraps until the night of the ceremony, including Artist of the Year sponsored by Ticketmaster, Group of the Year sponsored by Legends and ASM Global, Musical Moment of the Year sponsored by American Express, and Newcomer of the Year sponsored by Cave Club.
“The North is where it all started for me, and it is a tremendous honor to be recognized in this way.”
John Cooper Clark
Shembri added that this year’s awards aim to make a “real difference” in the lives of people who can benefit from musical therapy.
“Given the rising costs and the increasing demand for musical therapy, the funds raised at this event are vital to help us provide essential support for individuals throughout the North, from hospitals to care homes and community centers. Every contribution ensures that we can reach more people in need, using music to create meaningful change.”
Tickets for the awards are available on the Nordoff and Robbins website for GBP £40 plus a £1 venue restoration fee. Ticket prices include a souvenir brochure, a gift from Flare Audio, and entry to an awards afterparty at Boxpark Liverpool, complete with a complimentary welcome drink.
John Cooper Clarke to receive headline prize at UK’s Northern Music Awards
