Beyond The Music, in partnership with ethical cosmetics brand LUSH, will host a day of free entry live music titled ‘Music For Everyone’ on Thursday 12 October 2023. The event is part of the first-ever Beyond The Music Festival and industry conference slated to run from 11 – 14 October, which aims to foster change-making discussions and showcase fresh musical talents.
The free event is a notable feature of Beyond The Music’s broader festival lineup. The organisers have also unveiled a special venue for the day’s events—LUSH HOUSE at Ramona—which will include an array of live performances, DJs, and unique experiences courtesy of LUSH. The intention is to provide Manchester’s music fans with an accessible introduction to emerging artists and to promote inclusivity in music culture.
Tickets for this exclusive day are available for free on Beyond The Music’s website, and the first wave of tickets for the entire festival has sold out. The next batch of tickets will be available from 31 August.
Melody Morton, Lush Concepts Creative Director, emphasised the importance of community engagement in this collaborative venture: “Community and working alongside musicians rather than just listening to them has always been at the heart of Lush. We’re thrilled to introduce ‘Music For Everyone’ in Manchester—a city that has forever been a beacon in the global music landscape. It’s our pleasure to support this musical day of celebration, ensuring everyone can be a part of it.”
In a nod to Manchester’s vibrant club scene, Beyond The Music has also announced a full-day celebration on 14 October, curated by the iconic The Face Magazine, at a never-used-before secret location. Furthermore, BBC Introducing will return with its flagship music discovery event in partnership with Beyond The Music, featuring educational panels and live music at the iconic Band on the Wall venue.
Beyond the Thursday lineup, other festival additions have been announced, adding more artists to the roster across the Northern Quarter. Among the latest names are Maruja and WTRGRL, who will be part of Thursday’s ‘Music For Everyone’ event. Maruja, known for their dynamic live shows, will bring their compelling performance back to their hometown, while LA-based Swedish-Mexican American producer WTRGRL will explore the interplay between mainstream and alternative electronic-pop.
The festival is also working to support emerging artists through its Beyond The Music: Discovered program, which offers the chance for new artists to perform at one of the festival’s anchor music venues. Moreover, in a move to encourage inclusive access, a Pay It Forward system has been initiated to maximize accessibility for aspiring music industry professionals who may not be able to afford a full ticket.
Beyond The Music founder Oli Wilson highlighted the festival’s mission: “Thanks to Lush, we’re able to make new music discovery something everyone can take part in, joining us on our mission in supporting grassroots venues, new artists, and the local music ecosystem.”
