MOBO UnSung Brings Next Generation Talent To Tyneside
Ten of the most talked about artists in black music descend on Tyneside this month backed by a game changing opportunity to take their careers to the next level.
The MOBO UnSung Class of 2025 was announced this week ahead of an exclusive show at Newcastle’s newly rebranded Pilgrim.
And North East fans will get the chance to see the likes of Keedz, Morgan Munroe, VALNTNA and Brokenpen up close and personal — 24 hours before some of the biggest names in music of black origin appear live at the city’s Utilita Arena.
“We're delighted that our commitment to and passion for music in these genres has been recognised by the MOBOs team, who we've been talking to — and building a relationship with — since last year,” said Pilgrim’s co-owner, Michael Lavery.
“I think it's important that venues like Pilgrim and World Headquarters have been recognised for their longstanding commitment to diversity and for providing a safe and nurturing space for music of black origin and for all those in our communities who love this music.
“The artists who’ve been inducted into the MOBO UnSung Class of 2025 are all operating at the top of their game but they’re all aspiring to get to the next level.
“It’s a fabulous opportunity for the people of Newcastle to experience these exciting artists up close and personal on a stage that’s welcomed the likes of Chaka Khan, Gregory Porter, Don Letts, Angie Stone and Candi Staton in the past.”
MOBO UnSung guarantees its top 10 picks a nine-month artist development programme where they receive: invaluable mentorship; studio time; marketing and promotional support; live performance opportunities; financial grants; legal and business training; networking with industry professionals; and more.
And a once-in-a-lifetime journey begins in Newcastle with all 10 members of the Class of 2025 set to perform unique sets at the free event in Pilgrim on Monday (February 17).
Kanya King CBE, Founder & CEO of MOBO, said: “MOBO UnSung continues to be one of the most exciting platforms for emerging talent, uncovering the next generation of stars and providing them with opportunities that are truly game-changing.
“We are so proud of this year’s finalists and we cannot wait to see their journeys unfold. With the incredible support of Marshall, PRS Foundation and all of our partners and supporters, we are giving these artists the tools they need to thrive in today’s music industry and beyond. Watch this space — these artists are about to make serious waves!”
Pilgrim is a passionate advocate for nurturing the next generation and many of the local acts packing various MOBO fringe events this month have played live at the venue — with some familiar faces expected to be checking out their peers at the UnSung gig.
“We’re very proud to be a venue synonymous with hosting established performing artists but with the UnSung opportunity we’re also being recognised for our contribution to supporting emerging artists from the North East,” he added.
“It’s something we’ve been doubling down on since taking over in September. We’re also somewhere touring artists from outside the region can visit and be guaranteed a warm welcome and a positive experience.
“In terms of supporting local talent we’ve already hosted Kay Greyson’s album launch and had the likes of Georgia May — whose brilliant new single Heavy is out now — Sisi, the Soul’d Out soul band, SwanNek, Rivkala, Jamilah, and Voices of Virtue Gospel Choir perform at Pilgrim.
“It’s also fantastic to see all of the brilliant Newcastle artists appearing on the MOBO Fringe. They’re all friends of Pilgrim and have all performed at Hoochie Coochie and Pilgrim over the years.”
The full list of the MOBO UnSung Class of 2025 is as follows: Caleb Kunle, Morgan Munroe, Keedz, Flintz, Mar!k, Tofunmi Adorna, Siobhan Élouise, VALNTNA, Brokenpen, Gia Gray.
For details on how to claim your free tickets for Monday’s MOBO UnSung event — and for other shows at the venue — please visit pilgrimncl.music
