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Oasis Has Sunderland Buzzing












News that Oasis are stopping off in Sunderland has excited local musicians.

Kenny Sanger, of The Bunker, and The Futureheads bassist Jaff, believe the Rock 'n' Roll Stars' announcement that they will play the Stadium of Light will put the city on the country's music map.

And they reckon it will inspire a generation of young musicians across Wearside to get out their guitars and start strumming.

"It's great news," said Kenny, who is behind Sunderland Music Forum (SMF). "I think for young aspiring bands and musicians to see big artists come to the city will motivate them and generate more interest.

Hopefully, that will filter down to some of the smaller gigs in the city."

Jaff, who is also involved with SMF, added: "I think this will give people a push to learn how to play instruments, and that's exactly what the North East needs.

"I think sometimes we miss out on these things. Travelling tours don't really stop off here and touring bands coming to the area will definitely inspire a lot of people, especially a band like Oasis."

Washington-born singer Martin Stephenson, who found fame with his band Martin Stephenson and the Daintees in the 80s, also welcomed the news.

He said: "Wow. On a basic level this will definitely really help things like tourism and the city's reputation nationally. I think it's great."

Last week, the band, who exploded on to the music scene in 1994 with Definitely Maybe and went on to sell more than 50 million records worldwide, announced they would play six open air venues across the UK next summer.

"This is great for the area," said Jaff, who plans to see Oasis, who will be supported by Kasabian and The Enemy.

"Often big bands miss out Sunderland, and Oasis could easily have gone to Gateshead or the Metro Radio Arena.

"It's great that they've chosen Sunderland because the more things that come into the area, the more people there are that want to be in bands."
Kenny added: "We have a lack of venues or established music venues that can attract bands like these so it's great to see the hard work people at the club have put in."

Coun Mel Speding, member for culture and leisure at Sunderland Council, said: "It's fantastic news for Sunderland that Oasis will play at the Stadium of Light and in view of our aspirations for Sunderland to develop as a music city, it's hugely important.

"A performance by Oasis in Sunderland will have a major impact, not just on fans of the band, but also on all young people in the city with a love for music.

"Congratulations to Sunderland Football Club and all those who have worked so hard to make this happen. Let's hope it's the first of many high-profile events to come.

Source: www.sunderlandecho.com

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