Andrew Cushin is no stranger to success. With a songwriting career that took off at a young age, including a 2020 collaboration with Noel Gallagher and securing a record deal at just 18, he has quickly become a respected name in the indie rock scene. Known for his gritty, blues-infused edge, Cushin’s music effortlessly blends raw energy with emotional depth, and his songwriting is a testament to why he’s earned such admiration.
In conversation with The Courier, Andrew expressed immense pride in being part of the Come Together festival, a platform he praises for its dedication to "championing local talent". “I’m incredibly proud to be a part of it, and a part of my city,” he remarked, underscoring the need for greater investment in Newcastle’s creative scene. With the city often seen as lacking large-scale festival opportunities, Andrew is particularly enthusiastic about the festival’s role in highlighting the abundance of artistic talent from the local area. “There’s talent and talented people everywhere in Newcastle,” he added, reflecting on the thriving creative community that continues to influence his work.
Throughout his career, it is clear that Andrew’s connection to his hometown runs deep. He remains a fierce advocate for Newcastle’s small venues and local music scene, which he credits as the foundation for his career. His unwavering commitment to his roots is reflected not only in his words but also in his ongoing support for initiatives that help foster musical growth in the region.
Looking ahead to the release of his second album, Andrew revealed that he set out with a clear intention to create something more upbeat. Reflecting on his first album, which he wrote during a more introspective period in his life, he explained how he found solace in his guitar. “Those songs are a lot more personal and a bit of a downer,” he shared. “Because I’ve already spoken about that, I no longer have that cross to bear. So, the second album felt like a weight had been lifted, and the songs became more upbeat.” This new album shifts the focus to more universal themes like love, heartache, and the ups and downs of relationships, moving away from the personal experiences that defined his earlier work. Fans at Come Together will get a taste of his fresh sound, which he describes as more suited to festival stages.
As the youngest Geordie to ever sell out Newcastle’s City Hall, Andrew is no stranger to the pressure that comes with performing for a hometown crowd. Acknowledging the emotional significance of playing for his fellow North Easterners, he confessed, “It’s not necessarily more exciting, if anything, it makes me more nervous.” However, Andrew also recognizes the immense support that Newcastle has given him. “If it wasn’t for Newcastle, I wouldn’t be able to do this,” he said, crediting the city’s unwavering encouragement for his success. “Newcastle champions its own,” he added, mentioning fellow local stars like Sam Fender and Dan Burns. “You can thank people a million times, but the biggest way I can show my gratitude is by putting on the best performance I can.” With the added pressure comes an exhilarating reward, he noted: “If you play a good show in Newcastle, it’s the biggest shot of adrenaline you could ever have.”
Looking to the future, Andrew reflects on his journey as a recording artist. After selling out back-to-back shows at NX Newcastle, he realized that this life on the road was his true calling. “I was always going to do this, but that was the point where I realized I’ve got to do this because it obviously means something to other people,” he shared, reaffirming his passion for making music and connecting with fans.
With a new album on the horizon and a promising year ahead, Andrew Cushin’s star is undoubtedly on the rise, and Newcastle couldn’t be prouder to call him one of their own.