A year-long celebration starts in June but why wait until then to celebrate.
Have a look at our choice of 15 retro Echo photos which show why Sunderland is perfect for its new role.
1. Smiles from these music fans at Seaburn in 1993.
Smiles from these music fans at a live event in Seaburn in 1993. | se
2. Musical memories from 2003
The main stage at the Ufest Youth Festival in 2003. Were you there? | se Photo: MM
3. Lauren Laverne at The Bunker
Lauren Laverne (centre) first found fame as one quarter of alternative rock band Kenickie. | se Photo: Sunderland Echo
4. What a turnout in Cliff Park
A great crowd turned out for this 2008 music festival in Sunderland but who do you recognise in the audience? | se Photo: CA
1 / 4