Echoes of Ibiza: DJs Revitalizing Teesside's Music Scene

From Balearics to the Boro: A Journey Back Home

For those familiar with the vibrant beats of Ibiza in the 80s and 90s, the names Sally Rodgers and Steve Jones resonate with sweet nostalgia. As members of the iconic duo A Man Called Adam, their electrifying performances in legendary clubs like Amnesia and Pacha became the stuff of legends. However, as the sun sets on those hedonistic days, they return to where it all began: Teesside, the gritty yet endearing region that birthed their dreams.

The New Beat of Teesside

Rodgers, now back in her hometown, has partnered with local institutions like the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA) and Teesside University to reinvigorate Teesside's cultural identity. "We've built up relationships with a host of arts organisations," she says enthusiastically. "There's so much going on here. It's an exciting time."

Teesside gave me my 'Northern blonde ambition.'

Indeed, from the bustling nightlife of Ibiza to the working-class roots of Teesside, the dichotomy fuels their creativity. Teesside may not boast the sunshine of Ibiza, but the innovative spirit of the region shines just as brightly as the glow of the disco lights.

A Rich Tapestry of Influence

Rodgers reflects on her upbringing in an Irish Catholic family, where laughter and music intertwined. Her experiences in working men's clubs shaped her resilience and artistic vision. "It was a cross between Derry Girls and Phoenix Nights. A lively childhood!" she laughs. It's this resilience and vivacity that she brings back to Teesside.

• From Designs to Dancefloors: After leaving Redcar at 17 to work in fashion in London, she soon made a name for herself in the club scene.
• Major Milestones: Hit records like Barefoot in the Head and partnerships with giants like Fatboy Slim and Daft Punk secured her place in music history.

Community-Centric Initiatives

Now, as a senior lecturer at Teesside University, Jones has committed himself to nurturing new talent. His return is not merely a homecoming; it's a mission to inspire a new generation. “There are new generations here with excitement, looking and thinking differently,” he states. “You just try to share your passion.”

Jones's prominence in the community underscores the enduring relevance of their music, which now weaves in narratives from Teesside's industrial past. Their recent album, The Girl with a Hole in her Heart, features sounds sourced directly from the now-silent Redcar steelworks, proving that even the remnants of industry can fuel artistic expression.

Empowering Through Art

As Rodgers dips her toes back into the local scene, her events like Wintertide and the People Powered exhibition illustrate the dynamic and vibrant community she seeks to foster. "It's about highlighting Teesside's music scene from the Rock Garden to the Bongo Club. We hope to do these again," she remarks.

This blend of nostalgia and innovation echoes throughout her work. Rodgers even hosts vinyl sessions celebrating local music, showing the profound links between the past and present of Teesside's music landscape.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Teesside prepares for a landmark year with the prestigious Turner Prize coming to town, the energy is palpable. Events planned to coincide with this accolade promise to celebrate and showcase the region's artistic spirit. “It's going to be a momentous year for Teesside,” Rodgers beams, her enthusiasm infectious.

With giants like Rodgers and Jones at the helm, the future looks not just bright but thrillingly diverse for the Teesside arts scene. As they merge their storied pasts with a forward-thinking ethos, the duo proves that true artistry knows no bounds, be it on the dance floors of Ibiza or the creative corridors of Teesside.