On the horizon for Darlington's’ Forum Music Centre is the fully independent, Birmingham based artist Rebecca Downes. She is known for her original music - an ethereal blend of blues and rock that she co-writes with Steve Birkett on her own label - Mad Hat Records. 

 

Hailing from the West Midlands, Rebecca Downes has earned widespread acclaim for her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her craft. Rebecca earned recognition as the Female Vocalist and Emerging Artist of the Year at the British Blues Awards 2016, and later secured the title of Female Blues Vocalist of the Year at the FORM UK Blues Awards 2018. Adding to her accolades, in July 2020, Rebecca was honored with the appointment as Brand Ambassador for the Forge Ahead Initiative, a role dedicated to fostering the growth and advancement of aspiring young bands.

 

Rebecca performs her music within a 5-piece band; with Rebecca taking the lead on vocals and rhythm guitar, Steve contributing on lead guitar and backing vocals, accompanied by keyboards and Hammond (performed by Nigel Darvill or Aidan Goldstraw), Owen Davidson on bass guitar, and Neil Ablard on drums, she is set to deliver a performance that will resonate with audiences long after the final notes fade away.

 

Rebecca and her supporting act Phil Caffrey are set to take stage at 8:30pm on Friday 16th February - don’t miss your chance to watch her magic unfold on stage.