‘He understands soft power’: why Andy Burnham put music at the heart of his political identity
Oasis and Elbow have soundtracked Burnham’s byelection campaign and he got Liam Gallagher doing Manchester’s tram announcements. Will he keep banging the drum for music if he reaches Westminster?
TL;DR
- Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is using music as a key element of his political identity and campaign strategy.
- He has incorporated local music acts like Oasis and Elbow into his campaign materials and has secured favors from artists like Liam Gallagher.
- Burnham's platform includes policies like business rates cuts for music venues and aims to recreate the conditions for thriving music ecosystems, influenced by figures like Tony Wilson.
- He has been instrumental in bringing major music award ceremonies like the Brits and Mobos to Manchester.
- Burnham established the Greater Manchester Music Commission to unite the city's music scene and promoted it globally, even appearing on stage with bands.
- His involvement with the music sector extends to supporting emerging artists and using his influence to advocate for their interests.
- Despite widespread support, his policies and handling of controversies, such as the Sacha Lord affair, have drawn criticism.
- Burnham's political persona has evolved, embracing an 'everyman' archetype linked to Manchester's music heritage.
- There is hope among music industry figures that Burnham could become a strong advocate for arts in the UK if he reaches a national leadership position.