Andrew Cushin
Newcastle’s own singer-songwriter Andrew Cushin is an already well-established local talent. With a 2020 song created alongside Noel Gallagher and a record deal secured at 18, it’s Cushin’s songwriting that highlights why he’s held in such high esteem, with its indie rock energy seamlessly blending a gritty, blues-infused edge. In conversation with the Courier, Cushin 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, Cushin 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.
Sonny Tennet
Having grown up in South Shields, Sonny Tennet is a major talent to come from the area in the last few years. He described his music as a mix between soul and folk with influences such as Paolo Nutini and Stevie Wonder making a mark on his sound. That said, he doesn’t want to be stylistically pinned down: “I don’t want to be thought of as the ballad guy or the love song guy. I want to blend genres,” he told the Courier. When asked about advice for aspiring student musicians, he said “Do as many creative things as you can... and don’t get too drunk all the time!”
Harriet Rose
Harriet Rose is an up-and-coming pop artist from Sheffield who has been gigging since the age of 12. Her biggest influences are Taylor Swift and anything her dad played in the car for her growing up. Writing from her own relationship experiences, she describes her music as “heartfelt, personal and relatable” and wants to use that to connect with a younger audience “because when I play to a younger crowd the energy is insane.” Harriet read Journalism at Sheffield, and advised current students to “treat yourself like a business, grasp every opportunity that you can and utilise social media.”
Swindled
Five-piece group Swindled, who are rumoured (but not confirmed) to be playing Come Together, grew up in Sunderland. Frontman Will Swindle describes their sound as alternative pop, with the Sex Pistols, the Smiths and R.E.M. as key influences. “There are some incredible opportunities for smaller artists and all eyes are on the region,” Will said about Come Together. Drummer Felix Walls was optimistic about what 2025 could hold for the art pop outfit. “We’ve really developed our sound since the last EP. This will be a massive step forward for the band.”