Sunderland's Britpop punk band Kenickie honoured on Music City Wall of Fame

Pioneers of Britpop punk Kenickie, who went from being Sunderland school pupils to the front cover of Melody Maker, have been unveiled as the latest addition to the city’s Music Wall of Fame.

The four-piece, which was fronted by BBC broadcaster Lauren Laverne, join Dave Stewart and Field Music on the large scale mural outside The Fire Station.

Formed in the mid-90s, Kenickie - named after their favourite Grease character - rose to prominence during the Britpop era, gaining national recognition for their distinctive blend of punk energy, indie pop sensibility and outspoken attitude.

Comprised of siblings Lauren Laverne and Johnny X (Pete Gofton), as well as Lauren’s St Anthony’s school mates Marie du Santiago (Marie Nixon) and Emmy-Kate Montrose (Emma Jackson), the band released acclaimed albums At the Club (1997) and Get In’(1998).

They opened for The Ramones at Brixton Academy, drank beer with Courtney Love in New York and were regulars in the music magazines of the day.

“Being in Kenickie was a real rollercoaster, it was very exciting, particularly in the beginning,” recalls Emma. “When it was all taking off, we were still doing our A-Levels. That was the deal we had with our parents, that we finish our A-Levels. So we were going to college and then going off to do gigs and being on the radio and it was really exciting and felt full of possibility.”

Marie added: “I have a really distinct memory of driving across the Wearmouth Bridge and one of our songs coming on the radio and it was just such an amazing moment. And so brilliant to be in the middle of your home city, in the middle of your normal life, and hearing your song on the radio.”

Commissioned by Sunderland Music City in partnership with The Fire Station, the piece has been created by Sunderland-based illustrator Kathryn Robertson, who works under the name ‘KR Illustrates.’

The commission forms part of an ongoing programme to celebrate the city’s most significant musical voices and inspire future generations of artists.

Speaking about joining the Music Wall of Fame, Marie, who is now general manager at Sunderland Empire, said: “What a brilliant idea. It’s so cool to be on there and walk past it on the way to work every day.”

Michelle Daurat, Sunderland Music City CEO said: “We’re proud to celebrate Kenickie as true pioneers of Sunderland’s music story. Their influence continues to be felt today, and this commission ensures their contribution is recognised in a way that is visible, lasting, and inspiring.”

Rhys McKinnell, Fire Station and Culture Quarter CEO said:“As the Wall of Fame continues to grow, it’s becoming a powerful way to celebrate artists who come from Sunderland and the impact this city has had on music far beyond its boundaries.

“Welcoming Kenickie onto the wall is about recognising Sunderland-made talent and making those contributions visible, valued and proudly part of our public space. It’s a privilege to see this installation develop into a lasting record of Sunderland’s cultural influence, both regionally and beyond.”