A day of free live soul and funk music is coming to Darlington during the bank holiday weekend.

Darlington resident and music lover James Watson is bringing his DL21 radio show to life in the town’s market square on Sunday (August 27) from noon to 8pm.

THE LINE UP:

There will be a line up of vinyl DJs, including Mr Watson himself, and live music from Frankie Jobling at 1.45pm, followed by a series of some of the finest soul artists in the North.

The Northern Echo: Frankie JoblingFrankie Jobling (Image: CONTRIBUTOR)

 

2.45pm - 3.30pm: Beth Macari

Beth Macari is a soul singer-songwriter known for her powerhouse vocals and captivating performances. Drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of soul music while adding her own contemporary twist, Macari has established herself as a rising star in the music industry.

With her emotive voice, unforgettable melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, she continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Her journey as an artist has been marked by notable achievements, including a successful debut album, 'You Made It This Far,' and a series of acclaimed singles that have garnered millions of streams worldwide.

With her new single Summer Feelin', she continues establish herself as a force to be reckoned within the industrv.

The Northern Echo: Beth MacariBeth Macari (Image: CONTRIBUTOR)

4.15pm to 5.30pm: Secret Night Gang 

Manchester natives Anderson and Connell met aged seven playing football in Fallowfield, to the south of the city.

After briefly losing touch during their teenage years, they reunited during high school music lessons, eventually forming a promising songwriting duo. All the while though, they kept their writing exploits under wraps.

The duo cut their teeth on Manchester’s lively jam scene – there they met the band’s original bassist, Stu Whitehead, forming a trio that jammed in an Old Trafford lockup under the cover of darkness.

More exposure led to the acquisition of drummer Myke Wilson (Corinne Bailey Rae, 52nd Street) and producer/engineer Yvonne ‘D’Alchemiss’ Ellis. The core band also features the Nile Rodgers-adjacent rhythm guitar work of Jack Duckham.

Their second album ‘Belongs On A Place Called Earth’ was released in June 2023 and has received high praise from lots of radio stations. 

The Northern Echo: Secret Night GangSecret Night Gang (Image: CONTRIBUTOR)

6.30pm to 7.45pm: Carmy Love 

Soul singer Carmy Love launched her solo career in 2021, with her debut 7” single on Big AC Records selling out prior to its official release and gaining praise from Craig Charles (6 Music), Huey Morgan (6 Music) Robert Elms (BBC London) and Norman Jay (Soho Radio) amongst many others. 

Carmy returned with two new singles in late 2022, having once again teamed up with songwriter, Nick Corbin and producer, Mitch Ayling of The Milk.

Born and raised in North West London, Carmy had a rich musical upbringing - her mother and stepfather were DJs on several underground stations including Roots, Unique and Flava Radio.

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The likes of Janet Kay, Louisa Marks and Chaka Khan all featured heavily during her formative years, whilst an early grounding in Gospel singing developed her vocal style and stage craft.

Having also sung with Cool Million, PM Warson, Charles and House Gospel Choir, Carmy was also an original member of New Street Adventure (NSA), making a major contribution to No Hard Feelings - NSAs debut album on Acid Jazz - with her stunning backing vocals elevating the record to modern soul classic status.

The summer of 2023 saw Carmy release 'I Just Came To Dance', which premiered on Craig Charles' 'Ones to Watch in 2023' show on 6 Music.

The Northern Echo: Carmy LoveCarmy Love (Image: CONTRIBUTOR)