The British music scene converges on Manchester this weekend for the BRIT Awards, hosted in the city for the first time at Co-op Live. Louis Bloom, President of Island EMI in the UK, sees this as a landmark event on his hometown stage, overseeing powerhouse acts like U2, Mumford & Sons, and multi-nominated star Lola Young.
Manchester’s Musical Heritage Celebrated
A Stockport Grammar alumnus and lifelong Mancunian, Bloom emphasizes the city’s central role in UK music history. “Manchester deserves to host the BRITs,” he states. “It’s the beating heart of music in this country—this should have happened sooner, and I hope it continues.”
Bloom highlights the BRITs Fringe events as equally vital, showcasing emerging talent and offering insights into the industry. These initiatives echo past efforts like In the City, crediting Factory Records founder Tony Wilson for elevating Manchester culturally. “The fringe will spotlight local energy and investment in new acts,” Bloom adds.
Spotlight on Rising Talent: Sinead Ashiokai
Island EMI hosts a showcase at YES on Friday, where Bloom spotlights Wythenshawe soul singer Sinead Ashiokai. “She’s incredible and poised to become a major artist over the next 10 to 15 years,” he predicts. Scouts discovered her performing covers and originals at a local pub, mirroring how Bloom signed Lola Young six years ago after a similar pub gig in London.
“We sign artists early, nurturing them from the start,” Bloom explains. His northern roots fuel a focus on talent beyond London.
A Legacy of Music Influence
Bloom credits his father, 10CC icon Graham Gouldman, for igniting his passion. Raised on The Beatles and family discussions over curries, he assisted with A&R tasks as a child. Despite a surname change after his parents’ divorce, music bonded them—Gouldman, now 79, tours relentlessly.
From Stockport Grammar to law studies in Birmingham, Bloom pivoted to music, landing roles at RCA alongside Simon Cowell, then Island Records, signing Hozier, Mumford & Sons, and The Last Dinner Party. Recent highlights include chats with Bono and meeting Paul McCartney, whose legacy ties back to his Beatles obsession.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
An Oasis fan from their early Boardwalk days, Bloom urges: “Be great, don’t give up, and pursue it for the love of music. If you’re committed and ignore detractors, it will break through.” He affirms industry support for high-risk dreams, fueling cultural and economic growth.
Bloom anticipates Manchester’s raw energy—humor, optimism, and edge—infusing the ceremony, drawing global executives. “Britain’s resurgence with artists like Lola Young, RAYE, and PinkPantheress centers here now,” he says.
The BRIT Awards air on ITV and YouTube from 8:15pm Saturday; tickets are sold out.
