Kayleigh Cantrell goes from December 7 to 10 as she looks at some of the region’s musical characters, venues and institutions.
Day 7 – Harry McKenny
Harry McKenny is a scouse singer/songwriter from Huyton. Why is Harry McKenny one of the MANY north-west icons?
Believe it or not, Harry McKenny has only been gigging for 4 months. He’s supported artists such as In The Ranks and Jack Valero.
He performs his own songs alongside covers, his confidence and skills have grown with each show.
Harry has created a voice for those who are struggling to be heard and those being ignored, which is illustrated in his own songs such as ‘I’m not a Number’ and ‘Back Door and Run’.
A truly proud Scouser with a dream is one of the many ways to describe Harry.
Thank you to Harry for his dedication to his music, writing such touching songs and creating a voice for those who feel like they don’t have one. There is so much more coming your way!
Day 8 – Maisie Jackson
Maisie Jackson is a music enthusiast, working in in PR, live events, and social media. Why is Maisie Jackson one of the MANY north-west icons?
Maisie is the physical illustration of hard work!
Beginning with @maisgoesgigs, she attended local shows, both big and small, and would write reviews on them – all for her own enjoyment.
With hard work and dedication, Maisie now works for @thisisgalapr as an Account Exec and the face of their social media channels. She covers some of the biggest festivals such as Boardmasters, Slam Dunk and Rock Oyster.
Gala PR is made up of an all female team – they have sold out multiple festivals and have created incredible atmospheres.
Maisie is a strong and powerful woman who has incredible leading capabilities and creativity skills. She’s brought a lot to Liverpool, fresh ideas and new doors to be opened.
Day 9 – East Exchange
East Exchange are a four piece soul/funk rock band from South Liverpool, made up of a lead singer, rhythm and lead guitarist, bass guitarist, and a drummer.
Why are East Exchange one of the many north-west icons?
East Exchange are a rapidly successful band, from performing in venues such as the beloved Jimmys to the O2, Hangar and District. They have supported many popular bands such as Sundara Karma and The Sway.
Over the past year, the band have released three singles: ‘Four’ ‘McVice’ and ‘Monica’. All contain slick guitar licks, groovy bass lines, and angelic harmonies.
They’re one of the city’s fastest-growing groups, having achieved over 1000 monthly listeners and more than 16,000 streams on Spotify.
They are well known for having a humorous charisma, not being afraid to have fun, and enjoying their youthful years.
Ben Williams, a writer at RGM, wrote about their single ‘McVice’ and said: “It’s a mature composition, the kind you’d expect from a far more experienced band… It gives them a professional sheen that few bands may lay claim to.”
Day 10 – Hushtones
Hushtones are a 5-piece indie pop band from Liverpool. Their ‘varied and blossoming’ music has been played on a selection of different stations, such as BBC Radio Merseyside, BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 6.
Why are Hushtones one of the many north-west icons?
One of the reasons is the fact that they are a gender inclusive band, in a community ruled by power-rocking boy bands.
They have a unique blend of female and male voices, fronted by song-writing ‘powerhouse’ Martha, and Mick, joined by Caitlin on bass and backing vocals; Joe on guitar and backing vocals; and Abe on drums.
Hushtones have supported Red Rum Club, Tim Burgess and Space on tour, as well as She Drew The Gun after releasing their debut album, ‘Greetings From The Other Side’, two years ago.
The mix of personalities and their unique style is what makes them so special. They have created something so different and distinct that people can’t help but become attached to their melodies.
Photo credits: Luke Blake, Dylan Cox
Mersey Music 