PLAY THE MARKET: MEET McCORMICK
As we prepare for the next I Love North Shields Vintage Market, we’re introducing the musicians who will be joining us on stage at Salt Market Social.
Closing the live music programme on Sunday 25 October will be McCormick, performing from 5.30pm until 6.30pm.
The band features Steve McCormick on vocals and guitar, Hugh McGouran on percussion and Chris Rutherford on guitar. Their live performance brings an acoustic feel to Steve’s upbeat pop and indie songs, which are recorded with a full-band sound.
How would you describe your music in your own words?
“My music tends to be mainly upbeat pop and indie. I record with a full-band sound, but play live with a more acoustic sound.”
How did you first get into making music?
“After learning violin at a young age, I decided that playing guitar was much cooler at the time!
“The first band I was in had a lead vocalist called Ged Rogers, whose brother was Paul Rodgers from Free and Bad Company.”
Which song should people listen to first, and why?
“‘Goosebumps’ is probably one of the most requested tracks live. I’ve recorded two versions—the original upbeat version and, more recently, a slower, darker version.
“I made a video for it while running through Redcar, and I think people just liked it!”
Who or what has influenced your sound the most?
“I tend to gravitate towards music from the 1980s—Paul Weller and The Style Council, Prefab Sprout and Tears for Fears.
“However, I also love Sam Fender—‘Rein Me In’ is the best track of 2026—and The Lottery Winners.”
What are you looking forward to about playing at the Vintage Market?
“I’ve never played in North Shields, but bands I know who have performed there have told me it’s a really fun place to play, with lovely crowds.
“From the pictures I’ve seen, Salt Market Social looks like a really cool venue!”
DISCOVER McCORMICK
Listen to McCormick on Spotify, watch the band on YouTube and follow them on social media:
Listen to McCormick on Spotify
SEE McCORMICK LIVE AT THE VINTAGE MARKET
See McCormick close the Play the Market stage:
Sunday 25 October 2026
McCormick: 5.30pm–6.30pm
Market and live music: 10am–7pm
Salt Market Social, North Shields Fish Quay
Explore more than 50 independent vintage traders across two floors, enjoy food and live music throughout the day, and discover something unexpected.
Entry is free, the venue is dog friendly and there is lift access between floors.
Play the Market is our live music programme supporting local and emerging artists by giving them a stage in the heart of the community.
