I am a big fan of musical instores, ever since I can remember my family and I would seek them out when growing up in the Netherlands; Record Store Day is more of a highlight than my birthday, and I would never miss out on an up close and personal event with musicians I admire. So when I received the request to sort some live music for ALLSAINTS‘ London Fashion Week event, the answer was always going to be yes. I was asked to book two artists for thirty minute slots, create some social media content, and provide a sound system, and so I did.
One of my favourite local artists is outstanding singer, songwriter, and cellist Taliraw, and Leeds-based, Hexham-born artist Gemma Gates wowed at this year’s Aelius Alternative so the line-up was quickly chosen. Both performed as duos and all four musicians received, aside from their performers fee, a stipend for a free ALLSAINTS outfit! Ahead of their performances they went shopping and picked stunning outfits from the ALLSAINTS Newcastle store, after which we set up, soundchecked, and enjoyed captivating performances from both Gemma Gates and Taliraw.
ALLSAINTS’ Newcastle store offered plenty of ways we could position our stage and sound system, but against the back of the side wall, in front of the small seating area ended up being the perfect place for it. With an attentive audience enjoying some complimentary bubbly we enjoyed the music of two incredible grassroots artists and combined with being in a rather fashionable place, I loved every minute. I could have booked four more artists and stayed there all day if they would have let me! Incredible photographer Celia Medina attended the instore and captured the event perfectly, you can find some of her photos below.
LLIVELY Music 