Leeds has a thriving musical life and a vibrant musical heritage. From the sell-out shows by Fisk singers in the nineteenth century to the Mercury prize win of English Teacher in 2024, the city has a rich history of creating and celebrating music-making. Leeds people’s can-do attitude and commitment to mutual support and community make it a brilliant place to make and enjoy music.

To list just a few of the artists from Leeds who have found international fame – Corinne Bailey Rae, Gang of Four, Ivy Benson, Kaiser Chiefs, Nightmares on Wax, Sasha, Scritti Politti, Sean Conlon of 5ive, Sisters of Mercy, Soft Cell, Utah Saints, and, of course, Mel B – shows the diversity of the city’s music. And that’s not to mention the countless musicians who don’t find fame, but who do find audiences and great joy in making music in Leeds, from bedroom DJs to pop choristers and the many unsigned bands.

This series of music history walks around Leeds city centre captures some of that diversitythrough its five themes:

• 1990s Club Culture

• 1970s/80s Punk and Post-Punk

• Early 2000s New Yorkshire

• Black music and the claiming of space in the city centre

• Women and music in Leeds