The Futureheads recognised for huge contribution to Sunderland's music scene

“The Futureheads’ originality, ambition and enduring success has inspired musicians and audiences alike,” says the CEO of Sunderland Music City as the four-piece were unveiled as the newest inductees on the city’s Music Wall of Fame.

The homegrown band performed at The Fire Station on Saturday for an evening of music and conversation, which capped off a week of events as Sunderland hosted the global Music Cities Network Summit.

And as part of the evening, the audience gathered outside to see The Futureheads join luminaries such as Dave Stewart, Field Music and Kenickie on the Wall of Fame.

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, with the Wall of Fame and surrounding music mural that wraps around the substation becoming a new landmark for the city.

Formed in Sunderland in the early 2000s, The Futureheads emerged as one of the UK's most distinctive post-punk revival bands, earning a top 10 hit with their distinctive cover of Kate Bush’s Hounds of Love.

Comprised of Barry Hyde, Ross Millard, David "Jaff" Craig and Dave Hyde, the band has released a string of acclaimed albums over the years and built a strong following.

Their most recent album release, Christmas, saw them put a Futureheads twist on festive classics, as well as new music from the band, who do much of their recordings in Birdland Studios above The Peacock pub.

Michelle Daurat, Sunderland Music City CEO, said: "We're proud to celebrate The Futureheads as an integral part of Sunderland's music story.

“Their originality, ambition and enduring success have inspired musicians and audiences alike, and this commission ensures their contribution is recognised in a way that is visible, lasting and inspiring."

Andrew Dipper, Marketing and Sales Director at The Fire Station, 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 The Futureheads onto the wall is about recognising Sunderland-made talent and making those contributions visible, valued and proudly part of our public space.

"The fact that audiences joined us for An Evening with The Futureheads at The Fire Station makes this celebration even more special, giving people the chance to hear directly from the band and reflect on their remarkable contribution to the city."