In a week that has already brought Van Morrison and comedian Jimmy Carr to its line-up, organisers have today confirmed that local star Sam Fender will be the first act to appear at Virgin Money Unity Arena in Newcastle this summer.
After an amazing year, which saw his debut album ‘Hypersonic Missiles’ soar to the top of the UK album charts, Sam Fender, backed by his band, will open proceedings on Thursday 13th August.
Sam Fender said: ”Absolutely buzzing for this, getting the band and crew back together for probably our only gig of the year. Apparently this is the first socially distanced show of its kind and it’s amazing to see the north east leading the way, it’s huge for the area. There’s a few hundred platforms with 5 people on each. Grab a few mates and let’s have a platform party!! We’re going to play a couple of brand new tunes too. Tickets on sale Friday!!!”
Earlier this month, the North Shields born singer-songwriter was nominated for the prestigious Ivor Novello Awards for displaying “exceptional craft in songwriting,” thanks to the epic track that is ‘Dead Boys’.
But with no live events previously planned this summer due to the coronavirus, Sam will now follow up a ground-breaking12 months with a show at the world’s first socially distanced arena, taking place on his native Tyneside.
North East fans will be treated to a full live performance which also promises to feature never heard before material from Fender’s eagerly anticipated second album.
Reacting to today’s surprise announcement, festival organiser Steve Davis, said: “We are delighted to have a Geordie open the world’s first socially distanced music venue.
“As well as promoting Sam we are massive fans of his music and it’s been amazing to see him grow over the last few years. These shows will be special for everyone involved and we hope to get to hear some of the tracks he will have undoubtedly written during lockdown.”
Louise Hodges, Head of Consumer Communications at Virgin Money, added: “It is incredibly fitting to have Sam Fender, a homegrown hero, open the Virgin Money Unity Arena – the UK’s first socially distanced venue. Sam is a welcome addition to an already extraordinary line-up of acts. What a way to start this amazing and innovative event, which aims to bring fans and the Newcastle community together over the shared love of music and entertainment this summer.”
Tickets for Sam Fender at Virgin Money Unity Arena will be on sale at 10 am Friday 31st July, priced at £32.50, plus booking fee.
For more information about Virgin Money Unity Arena, to buy tickets for other events and to learn more about how it all works, visit: http://virginmoneyunityarena.com
Add as a preferred source