Music

Sam Fender has landed another Official Number 1, putting North Shields back in the national spotlight. Explore the hometown landmarks, lyrics and local venues that shaped his rise from Tyneside teen to chart-topping artist.

North East favourites Lindisfarne returned to North Shields last weekend, bringing their story full circle. From local blues outfits to chart success, founder Rod Clements began his journey in the town that shaped the band’s sound. With classics like Meet Me on the Corner and enduring anthem Fog on the Tyne, their music still resonates today — even inspiring artists such as Sam Fender. Decades on, the roots remain unmistakably North Shields.

North Shields’ next generation of music stars may already be stepping into the spotlight. At Salt Market Social’s intimate Loading Bay gig, Steve Willis’ youth showcases are proving that teenage talent is anything but amateur. From soulful soloist Sam Iduorobo to the swaggering, original sounds of headliners The Paradimes, four young acts delivered performances brimming with confidence, personality and serious promise. Not just “good for their age,” these are musicians finding their voice — and their audience. If history has taught us anything, it’s that today’s showcase could be tomorrow’s headline act.

We recall three days of music, memories and tartan as fans from the UK and beyond gathered at King Street Club for the Tyneside Americana Blues Festival finale in North Shields.

800 Years – Here We Are” explores the music, stories and spirit of North Shields through artists like Liam Fender, Ray Laidlaw, Hector Gannet, Man Power and DJ Schak. A raw, powerful documentary capturing the town’s identity and creative rise during NS800.

A surprise flash mob brought “The Geordie Line Dance” to North Shields Fish Quay, as over 70 dancers braved the rain to perform to Sam Fender’s ‘People Watching’.

Discover why the Fishnet Tavern has become one of North Shields’ most beloved community pubs. From weekly quiz nights and open-mic sessions to Try Tag Newcastle, drag nights, live music and local sponsorships — here’s how Chris and Calum built a true community hub on the Fish Quay.

A haunting new release from North Shields’ own Necronoise. “Casket Crawler” blends cinematic synths and horror-inspired beats in a Darkwave collaboration with Dead by Dawn.

A North Shields Story That Hits Home When the words “And the winner of the 2025 Mercury Prize is… Sam Fender!” echoed through Newcastle’s Utilita...

Social Youth Cult, Newcastle’s rising post-punk band, release their debut album “Lighthouse” — a dark, driving mix of Joy Division, Bauhaus, and Killing Joke influences. Catch them at Whitby Goth Weekend and The Lubber Fiend this autumn.