The first Tyneside Americana Blues Festival was such a roaring success that it’s back in early 2025 and – oh, my! – look how it’s grown…

That first Tyneside Americana Blues Festival was held at Cullercoats Crescent Club, but in January the whole shebang is moving to the wonderful Exchange 1856 venue in North Shields. That means bigger audiences and a truly world-class line-up of artists set to play over three glorious days. And that line-up truly is stellar and includes the likes of Medicine Head (UK blues/rock legends featuring John Fiddler), Deborah Bonhan Band (pictured – over the course of an impressive career, Bonham has established herself as one of the finest blues, rock and soul singers the UK has produced), Rhino’s Revenge (featuring John Edwards & Leon Cave of Status Quo), Ian McNabb (previously frontman with Icicle Works) and Fullhouse Play Frankie Miller (some of the UK’s finest musicians pay tribute to the legendary Frankie Miller). Elsewhere look out for the likes of Davey Pattison Band, John Verity (ex-Argent), Fargo Railroad Co, Fleeting Rumours, Stan The Band, and oodles more. You’ve heard of the January blues, but they were never like this, and the second Tyneside Americana Blues Festival will kick off your 2025 in the finest style possible. GM

Tyneside Americana Blues Festival, 10-12 January, The Exchange 1856, North Shields, day tickets and weekend tickets available from £21, theexchange1856.com