The latest initiative PRS for Music, the organisation that represents over 100,000 songwriters and composers, Songs for Manchester, was launched last week in the Northern Quarter.
It saw, fresh from performing on BBC2‘s Later … with Jools Holland Manchester’s Mercury Prize nominated trio GoGo Penguin joining critically acclaimed Everything Everything to celebrate the launch which publicises the crucial link between the members of PRSand the high street.
Over 15,000 retailers and businesses across Greater Manchester already have a PRS for Music licence which ensures songwriters, composers and publishers are paid whenever their music is played, performed or reproduced.
Five emerging Manchester based singer-songwriters, Baxter Rhodes, Liam Blake, Matt Fryers, Tom Metcalfe and Seamus McKenna – are taking to the city’s streets until late November to demonstrate the unique relationship between music and local business. They will be performing bespoke songs for businesses backing the campaign, to thank them for their support.
Jeremy Pritchard, Everything Everything’s bassist, who are currently writing their third studio album in the city, said:
“Music is a way of life here in Manchester for both the musicians that make it and the countless people who relish and support it. This initiative recognises the value that music holds for everyone and how important PRS for Music is to songwriters. It’s basically the reason we are able to make a living.”
GoGo Penguin,whose last album, v2.0 has been shortlisted for Album of the Year at the 2014 Barclaycard Mercury Prize,said:
“Our inspiration comes from the urban streets of Manchester. We love this city and its melting pot of culture, people, music and everything in between. It’s great that PRS for Music’s Songs for Manchester is celebrating this unique place and the link between music royalties and local businesses – so many careers would not be possible without this support.”
Paul Clements, Director of Public Performance Sales at PRS for Music, said: “PRS for Music members rely on businesses to pay their music licence so they can maintain their careers – and keep creating the music we all enjoy. This brand new initiative connects businesses with local songwriters and I am delighted that with Songs for Manchester we are able to celebrate that vital relationship.”
Photo credit Shirlaine Forrest
