Manchester Mayor Bev Craig announced £2 million in funding to support local musicians and artists, aiming to broaden the city's music scene beyond its association with Oasis.
Craig made the pledge at a creative industries conference held at MediaCity in Salford. The funding will improve access to rehearsal and production space for artists across genres, according to the mayor. She stated the city's music offering extends beyond "guitar bands or not", suggesting support for diverse musical styles.
The investment comes as Manchester continues to define its cultural identity. Craig's comments indicate a deliberate effort to move beyond the city's most famous musical export, the 1990s rock band Oasis, which reunited in 2024 after a 15-year split. That reunion sparked renewed global interest in Manchester's music heritage.
The £2 million represents a direct commitment to infrastructure that artists need to develop their work. Better access to rehearsal and production facilities typically removes barriers for emerging musicians who may lack personal resources or studio connections.