What is Gig Culture?

Gig Culture: Past, Present and Loudly Local

Gig Culture is a project that celebrates South Tyneside’s rich musical heritage while giving the next generation of musicians the mic.

We’re digging into the stories that made this region’s live music scene legendary—nights at the pubs and clubs, local bands that packed out venues, and unforgettable moments shared by generations of music lovers. These memories, generously shared by older South Tyneside residents, are becoming the spark for something new.

Local musicians aged 14–25 are taking that inspiration and turning it into original songs, live performances, and new bands. Through a mix of mentoring, creative sessions and gig opportunities, young artists are learning and developing their craft, building confidence, and beginning to find their place in the music industry.

In January 2025, our young musicians took to the stage for a live gig at The Word, celebrating the first wave of new talent to come through the project. Their work was also featured at The Word as part of the Making Waves exhibition, showcasing the stories, songs and creativity at the heart of Gig Culture.

Keep an eye out for future gigs, and come and support home-grown talent right at the start of their musical journey.

Our goal is to reignite the region’s once-thriving grassroots music scene—fuelled by the passion of young people and the power of local stories. This is about community, creativity and creating new music that echoes the energy of the past while looking boldly to the future.

South Tyneside is making noise.

Interested in getting involved in a future wave of Gig Culture? Whether you’re a young musician, a seasoned performer, or someone with a story to share—we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch.