If we pretend for a second Manchester didn’t exist, there honestly would be such a hole in the music scene all around the world. I mean just think for a second, no Oasis, no Joy Division and most importantly no Take That. HA.
We all know it’s one of the best cities in the world for musical talent. I mean, there are about a million music schools knocking about in the centre alone. People actually strive to come to this city to find their big chance.
People often forget what goes into your favourite song or album. And more often than not, it’s not just those 4 faces on the album cover. There’s usually a massive team behind them.
Scruff of the Neck are exactly that. They are the team behind loads of bands from Manchester and beyond, whether that be promoting shows up and down the country, managing bands who are touring the world or actually having their very own label.
I actually know Mark and have done for a few years now. He’s a very passionate man, putting his heart and soul into his business and I’m sure sacrificing a lot along the way. But it appears, it’s paid off.
SOTN is the epitome of one of those dead good ideas you have in the pub and shows how sometimes, it really can be the next big idea. Starting out in a student pub in Manchester on his own, Mark later joined forces with Mitch Page (Label Manager) working for free and paying for his own trains.
Based in the NQ, Scruff of the Neck is now home to 16 working staff across 9 divisions, gaining 12 million Spotify Streams on Scruff of the Neck Records with massive support on editorial playlists such as New Music Friday UK, The Indie List, Hot New Bands and loads more.
The publishing division has seen multiple placements across the world including 4 separate tracks used on Netflix’s ‘Terrace House’. The Management services have propelled Larkins into headline shows at iconic venues such as Manchester’s Albert Hall. A show that I was buzzing to be involved with.
The award was won last week in London’s Roundhouse at the 20th AIM awards. The AIM CEO said SOTN were the worthy winners on the night due to continuously punching above their weight time and time again. What’s more, they were the only Northern company on the nominee list which included Fuzz Club Records, Killing Moon, Local Action and Speedy Wunderground.
In speaking to Mark and the rest of the team, it’s obvious how grateful they are for the award and how much drive it’s given them to keep growing and keep finding the best talent up and down the UK.
