The legendary Bard of Salford to receive top music honour

The ‘Bard of Salford’ himself, Dr. John Cooper Clarke, is set to take stage at the 2025 Northern Music Awards, where he will receive the prestigious headline award.

Recognised for his immense contribution to music, poetry, and Northern culture, the legendary punk poet will also deliver a live performance at the event, celebrating his unmistakable influence on generations of artists and fans alike.

Taking place at Liverpool Olympia on March 27th, the second annual Northern Music Awards will bring together a stellar lineup of talent, including Blossoms, Lightning Seeds, The Zutons, Chiedu Oraka, and Luvcat.

Hosted by Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s leading music therapy charity, the event aims to honour the best of Northern music while raising funds for vital music therapy programs across the region.

A Northern icon honoured

Dr. John Cooper Clarke has long been a distinctive and influential figure in British culture. With his rapid-fire delivery, biting social commentary, and unfiltered Northern wit, he has remained a voice for alternative culture for decades.

From his roots in Salford to international recognition, Dr Clarke’s poetry has transcended generations, influencing everyone from Arctic Monkeys to contemporary spoken word artists.

His accolade at the Northern Music Awards follows in the footsteps of last year’s recipient, Tim Burgess of The Charlatans. Sponsored by Live Nation, the award recognises Clarke’s extraordinary career and ongoing impact in both literary and music circles.

Speaking about the honour, JCC said: “I am knocked out to receive this award. The North is where it all started for me, and I’m honoured to be recognised in this way.

“I look forward to celebrating with the incredibly talented winners at the Northern Music Awards and to support the life-changing music therapy work that Nordoff and Robbins delivers for people across the North.”

Celebrating Northern talent

In addition to Clarke’s headline award, the event will honour a range of artists and industry professionals shaping the North’s vibrant music scene. English Teacher will be recognised with the Album of the Year accolade for This Could Be Texas, following their breakout success in 2024. Meanwhile, the ever-controversial and boundary-pushing Yungblud will be named Disruptor in Music, a nod to his fearless approach to artistry and advocacy.

Live music venues will also take the spotlight, with Halifax’s iconic The Piece Hall and the beloved Trades Club in Hebden Bridge winning Inspirational Venue of the Year awards.

Recognising the role that grassroots venues play in nurturing emerging talent, the awards further highlight the North’s rich musical ecosystem.

Northern Music Awards

While the night will celebrate the best of Northern music, it also serves a greater purpose. Proceeds from the Northern Music Awards will go towards Nordoff and Robbins’ mission to provide music therapy to those in need.

In 2024 alone, the charity delivered over 23,500 music therapy sessions, supporting over 6,500 individuals across the North of England.

With Liverpool being one of the most deprived areas in the country, Nordoff and Robbins continues to expand its outreach, ensuring that music remains a tool for healing, connection, and empowerment.

Nordoff and Robbins CEO Sandra Schembri commented: “Music has the power to heal, connect and transform lives. This year’s Northern Music Awards is not just about celebrating outstanding talent across the region; it’s about making a real difference. Rising costs and increasing demand for music therapy mean that the funds raised at this event are critical to helping us bring vital support to people across the North.”

An unmissable night of music

With 16 awards up for grabs, the night promises to be a landmark moment in celebrating Northern music and culture. Additional winners, including

Artist of the Year, DJ of the Year, and Festival of the Year, will be announced live on the night.

Hosted by BBC Radio 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins and featuring award designs by contemporary artist Thomas Wolski, the event will also include an exclusive afterparty at BOXPARK Liverpool.

Tickets for the Northern Music Awards are available now via Ticketmaster and Nordoff and Robbins’ website, with prices starting at £40.

You can get tickets by clicking here

Every ticket purchase contributes directly to funding music therapy programs, ensuring that the power of music continues to change lives across the North.