In a recent interview, Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester Mayor and now a leading contender for the Labour leadership, revealed his top British bands in a blind-ranking exercise. This insight into his musical tastes offers a unique perspective on a potential future Prime Minister and his connection to the vibrant Manchester music scene.
The Power of Music
Music has long been a passion for Burnham, and his love for the Manchester music scene is well-documented. From quoting The Courteeners in his victory speech to seeking permission from Oasis to use their song in a campaign video, Burnham's affinity with these bands is clear. This connection to the local music scene is a powerful tool for any politician, as it humanizes them and showcases their roots and interests.
A Taste for Britpop Legends
Burnham's ranking placed Oasis at the top, followed by Elbow, Courteeners, and Wolf Alice. He admitted to playing it safe with Wolf Alice, anticipating more bands to be named. Interestingly, The Smiths rounded off the list, and Burnham expressed that he would have ranked them higher had he known the full lineup. This ranking showcases a preference for Britpop and indie rock, with a nod to the iconic Manchester sound.
Beyond the Music
Burnham's involvement with Manchester's Beyond the Music 2026 event highlights his commitment to addressing industry issues. The event aims to bring together key figures from music, tech, film, and politics to discuss and solve challenges facing the creative industries. As a founder of the event, Burnham will convene the 'All Content Global AI Summit', further emphasizing his interest in using technology to enhance the music industry.
Supporting Grassroots
Burnham has been vocal about the need to support grassroots music venues and new artists. He praised Coldplay's initiative to donate 10% of their profits from UK stadium shows to save grassroots venues, and he has advocated for the industry to give back to support its own talent development systems. This stance aligns with his belief that the music industry's issues often go unnoticed by Westminster, and he hopes to 'galvanize' the industry through events like Beyond the Music.
The Impact of Brexit
Brexit's impact on the music industry is a concern for Burnham. He highlighted the complications it has caused for touring, with almost 50% of UK musicians working less in Europe since Brexit. This issue affects the spontaneity and freedom that music often requires, and Burnham believes it is wrong that young musicians' careers are suffering as a result.
Conclusion
Andy Burnham's musical tastes and his advocacy for the music industry offer a unique insight into his character and priorities. His connection to the Manchester music scene and his commitment to addressing industry issues position him as a potential ally for the creative industries. As he moves closer to the Labour leadership, his passion for music and its role in society will undoubtedly continue to shape his perspective and policies.
