"CONTEMPORARY BLUES ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2024" UK BLUES AWARD

Alice Armstrong is an award-winning singer-songwriter and entertainer from Surrey, UK, known for her impressive vocal range, dynamic songwriting and unmatched stage presence.
In 2024 so far, Armstrong has been voted Contemporary Blues Artist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards, been played on BBC Radio 2 and is a common addition to Joe Bonamassa’s personal Spotify playlists.

An Alice Armstrong show promises a soulful, genre-busting performance packed with world class musicianship and wry British repartee. Her personal and provocative content is heavily infused with soul, blues, funk, rock and jazz, and is served with an enigmatic performance and audience interaction reminiscent of the likes of B.B. King, Koko Taylor, Janis Joplin and Tina Turner (with a touch of Maria Callas).

"Really loving that vocal" Craig Charles, BBC Radio 2

WITH SUPPORT FROM LEE AINLEY’S BLUES STORM

Fronted by an unusual pairing of mother and daughter, this musical powerhouse brings you original tracks with sounds firmly rooted in blues history but free from the restrictions of any traditional format. The unique vocal pairing of Lee Ainley and Tori Mai Hobbs-Ainley showcases tight harmonies wrought from close family bonds and a solid musical pedigree from both maternal and paternal lines.

Lee and Tori Mai are fearless warriors of original and exciting music. Their songwriting delves into the deep substrata of solid rock with gritty vocals delivering a seam of pure gold. They create complex and beautiful harmonies that are both striking in their originality and flawlessly blended. Hailing from Sussex, England this band has a supreme skill set which reflects in the polished fullness of the songs and performances. Songs are constructed with each band member contributing their parts driven by mutual inspiration from initial ideas.

The next groundbreaking album release is scheduled for Autumn 2024. The band has added keyboards to the line-up bringing an even more varied soundscape to work within.

THE KING OF SOUL GENO WASHINGTON RETURNS TO THE FACTORY LIVE, ARMED WITH THE FULL RAM JAM BAND + GUESTS

Geno originates from Evansville in Indiana, USA and first came to England in the 1960's as part of the US Air Force. His love of Blues and Soul music soon found him jamming with local bands in and around Ipswich and eventually led him to London where he caused a sensation singing with top R&B acts Georgie Fame and the Blue Flames and Zoot Money's Big Roll Band at the legendary Flamingo Club in Soho. The rest, as they say, is history.

Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band very quickly became established as the most exciting live band in Britain, regularly topping the bill over World famous artistes, as nobody in their right mind wanted to go on stage after a Geno show!

His live shows were immortalised in two of the biggest selling albums of the 60’s - "Hand Clappin' Foot Stompin' Funky Butt Live" and "Hipsters Flipsters and Finger Poppin' Daddies". His status as the undisputed "King of Soul" was cemented forever by Kevin Rowland and Dexy's Midnight Runners in the 1980’s with the World-wide No.1 smash hit single "Geno", which paid homage to the great man himself and is still played regularly today on national radio.

You only have to listen to an audience reaction to know that Geno has lost none of his magic as he and the band deliver a blistering set of Soul classics to a wild crowd who wouldn't let them off stage!

PLUS TWO SPECIAL GUEST ARTISTS the cold heart revue + ruby rose!

David Robinson aka The Cold Heart Revue is a solo blues acoustic musician (born and raised in Portsmouth) that has reached No.1 on the iTunes Blues Chart. He has appeared on 'The Royal Variety Performance' on ITV. He has received positive reviews from Classic Rock Magazine, Blues Matters and RnR Magazines and even performed at the Royal Albert Hall!

Ruby Rose is a powerhouse vocalist who has been entertaining audiences for years with her soulful, sultry performances - she was the lead singer in our recent Tina Queen of Rhythm concert celebrating Tina Turner. She electrifies every stage she graces, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene. From featuring on David Scinto’s album "Gold, Oil & Drugs" to leading a choir with jazz legend Herbie Flowers, Ruby’s versatility shines through.

AN energetic, subversive and playful space between rave and prog rock

Attention Humans! This is HENGE.
We are not from this world.
We bring you music from distant planets.
We offer this gift for the edification of humankind… so that eventually your species may put an end to war and set up new homes in space.

Extra-terrestrial joymongers - HENGE - have been delighting audiences in the UK and Europe since they landed on Planet Earth nine years ago. Their scintillating live performances earned them ‘Best Live Act’ at the Independent Festival Awards and they have since cemented their reputation with three acclaimed albums, numerous tours and regular main-stage festival appearances.

Their music escapes definition, but occupies a space between rave and prog rock that nobody knew existed. It is energetic, subversive and invigoratingly playful, jovially breaking new ground. Ultimately, these intrepid creatures are spreading a message of hope which leaves audiences feeling amused and uplifted in equal measures.

“Unquestionably one of the most unique bands currently releasing new music”
The Most Radicalist

“You can’t resist these intergalactic sounds”
Slam Magazine

WITH SUPPORTING ARTIST MR VAST

Who is Mr Vast?

“...like a muppet version of a Philip K. Dick novel”

Mr Vast – aka Henry Sargeant – trained as an actor and ‘dark clown’ before veering off into music as frontman for the legendary Wevie Stonder, dubbed by the BBC as “the Monty Python of electronic music”. Expanding on the same brand of anarchic comedy and wild fusion of musical influences, Mr Vast is a one-man show that resists easy definitions: a slapstick cabaret, a surrealist happening, an avant-garde concert, a tragicomic carnival, an ecstatic ritual.

Carrying the torch of the Great English Eccentric and music hall variety performance into the post-Brexit 21st century, Mr Vast also draws on the Theatre of the Absurd, the archetype of the fool and international folk traditions in his weird & wonderful characters, costumes, masks and props. A metamorphic presence and shamanic compère, Vast takes audiences on journeys into fantastic new worlds, summoning the deepest desires and fears from our collective unconscious.

The band from the 60’s that just keeps giving

Featuring Thijs Van Leer, Pierre Van Der Linden, Menno Gootjes and Udo Pannekeet, Focus return to European concert stages during 2023/24.

Fresh from the studio where they are recording their eagerly awaited new album, they will traverse Europe to give their loyal fans what they always want - a good time, and timeless music. Each song breathtakingly unique, and each performance different to the one before.

How much longer will Focus tour? We have had 50 years of this amazingly spectacular show, and Focus have achieved so much in this time span. From Polydor's record plant closing to other bands to press nothing but Focus for ten days to meet demand, to being a favourite of Bob Harris on The Old Grey Whistle Test, and to holding positions in the UK top ten charts in both singles and albums.

And now for the interesting facts of Focus: Focus have featured in the orchestra pit for Victor Spinetti’s musical Hair; have claimed a knighthood; soundtracked on a 2010 football World Cup commercial featuring Wayne Rooney; and not forgetting that Hocus Pocus was featured in the iconic car chase sequence, after the bank heist in 2017 movie Baby Driver and also featured in Disney’s Classic TROLLS WORLD TOUR Movie 2020.

The men of Focus are looking forward to seeing you all on their ‘Hocus Pocus Tour’ at their favourite venues, and a few exciting new ones too.

Huey Morgan: The Fun Lovin’ Criminal - An Evening of Music and Conversation 

You may have encountered the dynamic personality of Huey Morgan in many ways. Frontman, radio and television broadcaster, author and DJ, Huey is many things at once.

Coming to prominence as the frontman and driving force of the eclectic American Rap/Rock outfit Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Morgan led the band from 1993 - 2021. Best known for the hit record Scooby Snacks, Fun Lovin’ Criminals released 6 albums between 1996 and 2010 and sold over 10 million records. 

As host of The Huey Show on BBC Radio 6 since 2008, Morgan is a cherished voice on national radio in the UK, where he hosts a mix of Hip Hop, Soul, Punk, Funk, Rock and everything in between to his listeners.

A charismatic, authentic, passionate, and popular renegade himself, Huey’s groove is infectious. And now he’s heading out on his first solo tour – mixing music and chat - so fans can get up close and personal with Huey Morgan - The Fun Lovin' Criminal. 

Standard Seated Tickets: £27
VIP Seated Tickets £65 (Early venue access + Pre Show Meet and Greet)

“A virtual carnival of sound that’s high on energy"

Tankus the Henge have built their reputation on unforgettable song writing, spectacular live performances and relentless hard work, playing hundreds of shows across Europe and building a devoted fan base along the way.

Their funk-fuelled repertoire is wildly eclectic, ranging from New Orleans inspired swing to heavy rock riffs, and since their beginnings in the ratty alleyways of London’s Soho, the band has evolved into a wild groove machine.

Musically inspired by bands from the British invasion of the 60s and artists such as Tom Waits, Blur, Randy Newman and Queens of the Stone Age, and with lyrics influenced by 20th Century American Literature, specifically the Beat Generation and Gonzo journalism, Tankus the Henge defy categorisation. Their hair-raising show, like no other, has to be seen and heard to be believed. Like a psychedelic, rock n roll octopus – only with four more legs.

Buy the ticket, take the ride.

“That’s wonderful, ..I love that. It reminds me of a mixture of early Kinks, Squeeze and a bit of Blur mashed in. His voice is his own, ...so great. I love it.” (Smiling Makes The Day Go Quicker) - Dave Davies – The Kinks

“Like The Clash from New Orleans” - Nikolaj Torp Larsen – The Specials

"....a virtual carnival of sound that’s high on energy and deep on soul. With copious helpings of R&B blues, funk, disco, Django, a dose of Dexy’s, a drop of Ray Davies and a pinch of Madness emerging throughout the eleven tracks – it’s an exciting mélange of sound." - Simon Wells (The Guardian)

THE FACTORY LIVE AND SOLID ENTERTAINMENT ARE DELIGHTED TO WELCOME CONNOR SELBY AND HIS BAND TO WORTHING

Connor Selby is one of the brightest talents on the UK blues scene; incredibly he was voted "Young Artist of the Year" at the UK Blues Awards for three consecutive years. He has an impressive venue checklist, including Wembley Stadium, where he opened for The Who in July 2019 and has since gone on to play Hyde Park, London, on a bill with Pearl Jam, Stereophonics and Johnny Marr in the summer of 2022.

Raised in an Essex village, he has trodden a path less travelled. From early years in Connecticut, USA, as a young child to Dubai, UAE, aged ten to fourteen, and Essex either side, with those young eyes soaked up the travels and the changes passing him by.

One thing that kept with him was his burgeoning love of American roots music. "I got interested in not just the music itself but the history and everything around it," he says. "I love the directness, the simplicity and earthiness of it," he adds. "I love really how down-to-earth it is both lyrically and musically. I think with the blues, it's fundamentally about very basic human emotions. Things like sorrow and pride and exploring the way we deal with everyday situations and problems."

As a teenager, he devoured the music of Eric Clapton and Ray Charles - "Ray completely reshaped me as a person and the way I thought about music." But he also draws influence from old Delta records to soul artists like Sam Cooke, Bill Withers and the Stax sound to Jazz singers such as Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra as well as singer-songwriters; Van Morrison, Townes van Zandt, Bob Dylan, Nick Drake and contemporary artists like Ray LaMontagne, Norah Jones and Foy Vance.

WITH SPECIAL GUEST ARTIST ALEX FRANCIS

Alex Francis is rapidly gaining recognition with his unique mix of modern pop and timeless soul, captivating audiences in the UK, Europe, and beyond. His extraordinary talent has led him to tour with iconic musicians including Stereophonics, Alanis Morissette and Sting. Alex’s skills were further highlighted on “Hold On” an official duet with Melanie C, adding to his already notable body of work.

As well as having over 30 million Spotify streams, his energetic sound and compelling stage charisma have earned accolades from prestigious platforms such as BBC Introducing, Amazing Radio and BBC Radio 2. He has performed on renowned festival stages across the world including the SXSW Festival in Austin, Liverpool Sound City, the IOW Festival and Madrid’s MadCool Festival.

Guided by Grammy Award winning producer Mark Taylor, Alex Francis spent most of last year focused primarily on composing new music but he also undertook a successful series of solo shows in New York City and contributed an original song to the highly praised Cher album “Christmas.”

“Incredible voice, incredible production & a wonderful songwriter” Charlie Ashcroft, Amazing Radio

“The perfect intersect between grit and polish” Belwood Music

“Alex’s music combines folk and soul with a hypnotic, modern funk melded together through his rustic, beautifully rough voice.” The Sound Sniffer

“Quietly inspirational” CLASH

“A major talent in the Blues Rock category” Blues MUSIC Magazine

Guitar virtuoso Alastair Greene has artfully managed a dynamic solo career while contributing to the music of notable artists such as Grammy-winner Alan Parsons and soul blues Grammy nominee Sugaray Rayford. Greene’s latest release, STANDING OUT LOUD, is a commanding declaration poised to solidify his position as a seasoned veteran in the blues rock world.

With STANDING OUT LOUD (his 11th solo record), Greene set out to create an honest, no-nonsense record that recalls the spirit of his favorite music from the 1960’s and 70’s. For that purpose, he headed to Nashville in January 2024, knocking out eight of the album’s eleven songs. His partner in this endeavor was Nashville stalwart JD Simo, who co-produced with Greene and engineered the tracks in his own House of Grease studio.

With a strong batch of original songs rooted in blues and southern rock traditions, STANDING OUT LOUD builds upon the momentum created by his critically acclaimed solo releases of recent years. “Teaming up with Ruf Records for this album feels like a natural and perfect fit for the progression of my career,” says the California native and multi-charting Billboard artist that Blues Music Magazine called “a major talent in the blues-rock category.”

With the album complete, Greene is itching to hit the road. His 2024 tour schedule will include festival and club dates across the U.S. and over 40 European dates. “I’ve toured Europe many times as the guitarist with the Alan Parsons Live Project, and I’m excited to be bringing my music to the people.”

JOHNNY HATES JAZZ “THE BAND THAT NEVER TOURED”

Johnny Hates Jazz, comprising Clark Datchler (songwriting, vocals, keyboards) and Mike Nocito (production, engineering, guitars), achieved prominence in the late 1980s with a string of hits, notably "Shattered Dreams.”

Released in March 1987, the song reached top 5 in the UK, mainland Europe, Asia, and secured the second position in Japan. This was followed by global successes like the anti-war anthem "I Don’t Want To Be A Hero,", “Turn Back The Clock" (featuring Kim Wilde), “Heart Of Gold", and "Don’t Say It’s Love."

In 1988, “Shattered Dreams" reached number 2 on the US Billboard chart and topped the US Adult Contemporary chart. That same year, the album "Turn Back The Clock" entered the UK charts at number 1, selling over four million copies and achieving triple-platinum status.

After parting ways at their peak, Johnny Hates Jazz reunited in 2010 and released the album "Magnetized" in 2013, the title track becoming an instant radio hit in the UK. In 2018, the band marked the 30th Anniversary of “Turn Back The Clock" with a special edition featuring new acoustic versions of every song. Their 2020 release,
"Wide Awake," drawn on inspiration from their musical roots in the 1970s.

In addition, Clark has also co-written new material for Mike and The Mechanics with Genesis legend Mike Rutherford.

Now, for the first time in 36 years, Johnny Hates Jazz will be embarking on their first ever headline tour of the UK and overseas. With a brand-new show, surrounded by world-class musicians, they’re ready to captivate audiences across the globe

AN INTIMATE GIG WITH THE LONGEST-RUNNING FEMALE GROUP IN HISTORY BACKED BY A STUNNING FULL BAND

When you hear the name, The Three Degrees, you immediately think of their most famous song, When Will I See You Again, a major hit record throughout the world, topping the chart in the U.S.A. The UK, Japan and most European countries, earning the trio every conceivable accolade at the time — not to mention enough Gold records to make Fort Knox a little envious!

More than five decades on, the threesome has retained their precise vocal qualities, and, in between, they have amassed an impressive list of hit records.

In 1972, they hit the charts with Dirty Ol’ Man, soon after came The Sound of Philadelphia and the following year produced their biggest hit When Will I See You Again.

“The whole Philadelphia Sound was the brainchild of Kenny (Gamble) and Leon (Huff),” Valerie explains. “They wrote and produced most of the hits for Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, The O’Jays, Billy Paul and The Jacksons among many others.”

During their 3 years with Philadelphia International, they enjoyed even more success with hits “Year Of Decision”, “Take Good Care Of Yourself” & “Toast of Love”.

It was during this era that the threesome made their biggest forward strides. Prince Charles, now King Charles III publicly acclaimed The Three Degrees as his favourite group… Charlie’s Angels, as they were tagged! “It was a great feeling…a feeling of awe” is how Valerie remembers this accolade.

In 1978 they teamed up with Giorgio Moroder (he of Donna Summer fame) and a new string of hits followed. “Giving Up, Giving In”, “My Simple Heart”, “The Runner” and the lush ballad, “Woman In Love”

The Three Degrees can still make the claim as being the longest-running female vocal group in history and they show no signs of slowing down!

WITH SPECIAL GUEST MARIA HENDERSON

With a stunning voice that has graced The Factory Live stage time and time again, enjoy a set of songs from Maria Henderson who will be your warm up artist ahead of The Three Degrees to get you in the mood!

With a career spanning more than three decades and a back catalogue packed with groove classics, Shakatak have enjoyed a level of success and career longevity rarely achieved in contemporary music

The year 2022 was the 40th anniversary of their biggest hit album and single Night Birds.

Because of the nature of their music their fan base is far reaching while always retaining an “underground” element. This paradox sees the band, who are known primarily as serious musicians, enjoying both high cult status and instant recognition as a household name.

Their many hits include the singles Down on the Street, Easier Said than Done, Invitations, Dark is the Night, Feels Like the Right Time and, of course, Night Birds.

The Factory Live are delighted to welcome back the six-piece line-up after their roof-raising performance in 2023, featuring original members: Bill Sharpe, Jill Saward, Roger Odell and George Anderson.

With a career spanning more than three decades and a back catalogue packed with groove classics, Shakatak have enjoyed a level of success and career longevity rarely achieved in contemporary music

The year 2022 was the 40th anniversary of their biggest hit album and single Night Birds.

Because of the nature of their music their fan base is far reaching while always retaining an “underground” element. This paradox sees the band, who are known primarily as serious musicians, enjoying both high cult status and instant recognition as a household name.

Their many hits include the singles Down on the Street, Easier Said than Done, Invitations, Dark is the Night, Feels Like the Right Time and, of course, Night Birds.

The Factory Live are delighted to welcome back the six-piece line-up after their roof-raising performance in 2023, featuring original members: Bill Sharpe, Jill Saward, Roger Odell and George Anderson.

ICONIC BRITPOP ARTIST THE BLUETONES LIVE IN WORTHING - THE FULL BAND EXPERIENCE

The Bluetones first came to prominence in 1995, when their debut release ‘Are You Blue Or Are You Blind’ broke into the Top 40. The single proved to be the launching pad for a run that saw 14 hit singles and 6 albums follow on from it including Slight Return, Sleazy Bed Track and Bluetonic.

From thereon, the band, made up of brothers Mark and Scott Morriss alongside Adam Devlin and Eds Chesters, enjoyed considerable UK and Ireland successes, extending out across into Europe and Japan, before taking a hiatus in 2011 that lasted for 4 years.

Since then they have re-established themselves as one of the UK’s most consistently entertaining live acts, regularly touring their extensive catalogue to their army of devoted fans.

2024 will see the release of the first new Bluetones material in 14 years, and promises to be as exciting a year for the group as they’ve ever enjoyed. A renaissance that will see the four original band members take in the summer festivals before a full UK tour in the autumn/winter of 2024.

“The Bluetones run the gamut from classic indie-pop to psychadelic- tinged rock with unselfconscious ease” – The Scotsman

“A band tied to their Brit Pop past but with tunes that begin to transcend it too” – Louder Than War

WITH SUPPORTING ARTIST ALEX FRANCIS

Alex Francis is rapidly gaining recognition with his unique mix of modern pop and timeless soul, captivating audiences in the UK, Europe, and beyond. His extraordinary talent has led him to tour with iconic musicians including Stereophonics, Alanis Morissette and Sting. Alex’s skills were further highlighted on “Hold On” an official duet with Melanie C, adding to his already notable body of work.

As well as having over 30 million Spotify streams, his energetic sound and compelling stage charisma have earned accolades from prestigious platforms such as BBC Introducing, Amazing Radio and BBC Radio 2. He has performed on renowned festival stages across the world including the SXSW Festival in Austin, Liverpool Sound City, the IOW Festival and Madrid’s MadCool Festival.

Guided by Grammy Award winning producer Mark Taylor, Alex Francis spent most of last year focused primarily on composing new music but he also undertook a successful series of solo shows in New York City and contributed an original song to the highly praised Cher album “Christmas.”

“Incredible voice, incredible production & a wonderful songwriter” Charlie Ashcroft, Amazing Radio

“The perfect intersect between grit and polish” Belwood Music

“Alex’s music combines folk and soul with a hypnotic, modern funk melded together through his rustic, beautifully rough voice.” The Sound Sniffer

“Quietly inspirational” CLASH

RETURN TO STEELTOWN: THE 40 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

‘Steeltown’ was the second studio album by Big Country, recorded at ABBA’s Polar Studios in Stockholm with production from Steve Lillywhite. Released in October, 1984 Bruce Watson remembers the time very well, amid the nationwide strife back in the UK, fully in the grip of the Miners Strike: “We started work on Steeltown back in June 1984 at Abba’s studio. My Dad was a miner, so what we did was knuckle down to hard work for six weeks”.

Regarded by many as a classic, the multi-million selling ‘Steeltown’ went straight to the #1 slot in the UK album charts. Big Country will be performing songs from the album as well as the classic hits and live favourites including: ’Fields of Fire’, ‘In A Big Country’, ‘Chance’, ‘Wonderland’, ‘Look Away’ and many more.

Formed in 1981 by guitar playing founder members, Stuart Adamson and Bruce Watson, both native of the band’s hometown Dunfermline in Scotland, the duo were Initially driven by a shared vision of widescreen guitar melody, harmony and lyric. The classic Big Country sound was further enhanced later that summer by the arrival of drummer Mark Brzezickiand and bass player Tony Butler.

Big Country are: Bruce Watson (guitars/vocals), Mark Brzezicki (drums/vocals), Jamie Watson (guitars/vocals), Simon Hough (vocals/guitar) and Gil Allan (bass).

WITH SUPPORT FROM THE QUEEN OF ROCK 'N’ ROLL MEL “THE POCKET ROCKET”, A POWERHOUSE SINGER PERFORMING CLASSIC SING-ALONG ANTHEMS

We are Perestroika!

Welcome to Worthing’s premier electronic music festival. Expect dancing, fun, and a friendly atmosphere where all are welcome.

Perestroika have hosted events through Sussex over the last ten years and have built a diverse following. Every event is party so there will be lots of extra entertainment as well the best music in town.

This is the first annual event celebrating all the amazing music in the area with bands and solo artists that will delight and entertain. If you like music this is for you.

LINEUP

15:00 - Monzen Nakacho
15:40 - Christian Le Surf
16:20 - Mei
17:05 - 17:35 - King Dong Quixote
17:50 - 18:20 - R. Dyer
18:35 - 19:05 - Amongst The Pigeons
19:30 - 20:05 - Telecom
20:20 - 21:05 - Patients
21:20 - Perestroika

THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT, JOIN THE OFFICIAL WAITING LIST HERE

Multi-platinum, Grammy Award-Winning group Arrested Development tour to The Factory Live this summer

For the last twenty years, Arrested Development has performed sold-out concerts in literally every part of the world. In September, 2019, the band was given an award at the Black Music Honors Awards. This award acknowledges Artists who have made a significant contribution to African American Music. The band continue to release new music and find new success in different corners of the globe. Their shows are a celebration of life. Experiencing an Arrested Development concert is an uplifting and spiritual event wrapped into one big party.

It’s been more than twenty years since a new group called Arrested Development slammed the gangsta dominated world of hip hop with defiant lyrics of hope. Apparently the world was ready for the change as AD became the first ever hip-hop artist to receive the “best new artist” Grammy, (a distinction it still maintains today in that category). In addition, the group also received a Grammy award for “best rap single” for their anthemic prayer-like hit song, Tennessee. The song has gone on to be named as one of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in the top 100 Greatest Songs of the 90’s by VH1.

Money came in but not for precious stones and big cars. Instead, these pioneers of the conscious rap game took one big step for mankind by giving back and becoming the first African American artists to donate money to Nelson Mandela and the ANC. They used their voices and their status to the benefit of many underprivileged brothers and sisters around the world.

With the success of the single Mr Wendal, Arrested Development brought the issue of homelessness to the forefront. The group donated half of the royalty earnings to the National Coalition of the Homeless. The movie, X, went on to become one of Spike Lee’s most highly acclaimed works, and the Arrested Development song, Revolution, would forever be associated with one of the most important movies in black culture.

“One of the greatest hip-hop acts of all time” – VH1

Short Sharp Scratch is the music of Brighton based songwriter/producer Jak Chantler. Funky synth pop featuring virtuoso synth and keys from Mo Pleasure, former Musical director of Earth Wind and Fire and keys/Bass player to Micheal Jackson, Ray Charles.

'Total ear worm... such a groove... Jak Chantler channels his inner Prince!'
Tom Robinson, BBC Radio 6 Music

Without doubt one of the finest Blues/Rock performers this side of the Pond

“SHOULD BE ON EVERY ROCK FAN’S WISH LIST” - NEWBURY TODAY

British Blues Awards Accolades
Young Artist of the Year (2011)
Best Female Vocalist (2012 + 2013)
Guitarist of the Year (2013 + 2014)
Guitar World 11th Best Guitar album of the Decade (2019)

CHANTEL McGREGOR is an example of British Rock at its very best

In previous years, Chantel stepped out in the pro-musician world and her stunning live performances demonstrated that she had the ability to perform rock for the new age, played by a musician born with an effortless virtuosity. Since then, she has built a loyal and growing fan base who follow her every move.

If you measure an artist’s prospects by the company they keep, then Chantel has certainly been moving in the right direction. Chantel was invited to perform with Joe Bonamassa on two of his UK tours and the pair remain good friends to this day after non-stop sell out shows.

Chantel is now writing for her next studio album, and is exclusively debuting some of the new tracks on her current UK tour. These are very special one-off shows not to be missed.

Chantel stated, ‘I’m over the moon to be back out on tour, the last couple of years have been incredibly tough for everyone in the music industry and it’s just so wonderful to be able to play live music in front of great crowds once again’.

GUEST SUPPORT RAMBLIN’ PREACHERS!

Ramblin Preachers’ influences are firmly set in the southern rock vibe. Guitarist James Ives and Lead Singer / Guitarist Ross Connor are clearly tone chasers and that is very transparent in ‘Separate Ways’ where the rhythmical and sonic element is so important. With arena-like power, relatable songwriting and a face melting live show they aim to continue their success with their debut album ‘Sins & Virtues’.

Join us for our 10 year anniversary of Revolver Revue shows!

The Revolver Revue is a glamorous, dazzling extravaganza featuring top UK and International Circus, Cabaret and Burlesque acts. Produced by Chi Chi Revolver, born with sawdust in her veins and lifelong experience in the showbiz world, The Revolver Revue is guaranteed to knock your glittery socks off! Doors 7pm.

Hosted by:
Eva Von Schnippisch

Featuring:
Chi Chi Revolver - Hula hoop queen
Daniella D'Ville - Strong woman
Demi Noire - Burlesque Superstar
Jon Udry - Award winning juggler
More TBA

MEET EXTC - XTC'S TERRY CHAMBERS AND FRIENDS

For almost four decades, XTC fans could only dream of witnessing the sensational XTC classic songbook played live. That dream has now become a reality. XTC’s legendary drummer, Terry Chambers, is back on the road with his band EXTC (named and approved by XTC frontman, Andy Partridge).

Emerging out of the post-punk and new-wave explosion of the late 70s. XTC experienced global success, touring with the likes of The Police and Talking Heads. Sadly, their legions of loyal fans would be left in limbo, when in 1982 XTC stopped touring, becoming a studio-based entity.

Alongside Terry, EXTC features frontman Steve Hampton (lead vocal & guitar - Joe Jackson, The Vapors and Dead Crow Road) and Terry Lines (bass & vocals - The Rams and Dead Crow Road). Enjoy XTC’s iconic hits Making Plans For Nigel, Generals and Majors, Dear God, Senses Working Overtime and many more!

Standing £18, Seated £23, VIP £28

SEETHING AKIRA HEADLINE THIS EPIC EVENT WITH FIVE OTHER HEAVY BANDS BACK TO BACK

The Hammerdown Warmup Show gets bigger every year, this time taking place at the home of last year's main event. The Factory Live in Worthing boasts on-site catering, a well-stocked bar and space for every band to vend their merch.

We've upgraded the warmup show lineup from four bands to SIX in the pursuit of making it the biggest standalone show we've ever put on. Tickets are £12 and early bird tickets to the second Winter Militia will be available for cheap at the event, an exclusive early bird price for the new winter fest in the Hammerdown calendar. Get yourselves involved! It is Harry White’s birthday after all…

Doors 18:00
Webb 18:10-18:40
One Last Day 19:00-19:30
InAir 19:50- 20:20
Nightlives 20:40-21:10
NTT 21:30-22:00
Seething Akira 22:20-23:00

SOLD OUT, CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR OFFICIAL WAITING LIST

COMEDIAN RICH HALL TOURS to Worthing with his LATEST headline show ‘Shot From Cannons’

Fresh on the heels of his critically acclaimed memoirs, Nailing It, Montana’s transatlantic messenger Rich Hall returns with new rants, knife-edge observations, thrilling musical interludes and an ever-formidable knack for laughs on the fly. You’ll pay for the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge of it.     

Vital and incredulously angry. Hilarious.” – The Scotsman
“Blissfully funny” – Guardian
**** “One hour of stonking stand-up and another of stomping hoedown mayhem. That’s two top gigs in one” - The Mail On Sunday (Event)

Brave Rival are the South East’s rip-roaring rock and blues Machine

Hailing from Portsmouth, the six time UK Blues Award Nominated band features the powerful and beautiful twin vocals of Chloe Josephine and Lindsey Bonnick. On lead guitar, providing dramatic guitar solos and crunching rock riffs is Ed “The Shred” Clarke, and holding it all together is the rhythmic backbone, the self-proclaimed engine room of Billy Dedman (bass) and Donna Peters (drums).

Drawing influence from the likes of John Mayer, Aretha Franklin, Heart, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin and Tedeschi Trucks, Brave Rival offer a style and sound that you’ve always known, and yet never heard before.

Brave Rival’s highly anticipated debut album “Life’s Machine” arrived May 2022 to critical acclaim. Emerging Rocks Bands Magazine said it best when they described the album as “Boss blues energy from start to finish”. Similarly, Powerplay Magazine finished their ten out of ten review by saying that “Brave Rival have unleashed one lean, mean and well oiled machine!” The album appeared on multiple end of year, best album lists including Get Ready To Rock Radio, Rock & Blues Muse, NWOCR, Wrinkly Rockers Club, Blues Rock Review and Great Music Stories and was the 4th most played in 2022 on the IBBA charts.

Combined with a 2022 UK Blues Nomination for Best Emerging Band already under their cap, the band began 2023 with 5 nominations in the 2023 UK Blues Awards. Including ‘UK blues band of the year’, ‘UK acoustic act of the year’, ‘UK blues vocalist of the year’ , ‘UK instrumentalist of the year’ , ‘Jules Fothergil young UK blues artist of the year’.

Tipped as one of Joe Bonamassa’s “favourite discoveries this year” the future is looking incredibly bright for this young band on a meteoric rise, who are taking the world by storm. Their unique combination of beautifully harmonic, soulful vocals, epic guitar solos, pounding drums and powerful bass serves up an infectious sound that is not to be missed.

"What Heart might sound like if they joined the Tedeschi Trucks Band"
Classic Rock Magazine

"A FLAWLESS CONVERGENCE OF ROCK, BLUES AND SOUL…"
Raw Ramp

BLUE NATION RETURN TO THE FACTORY LIVE TO OPEN FOR BRAVE RIVAL

3-piece band from Birmingham Blue Nation use Riff based Melodic Blues Rock from a reservoir of influences, including Beatles, Cream, Zeppelin, Brit Pop 90’s, more recently Rival Sons and Vintage Trouble, to create their memorable sound. Their songs are delivered by three accomplished musicians, fronted with stunning vocals, backed up with impressive gig experience, stage presence and great songs.

“The most dapper band in Birmingham” Maximum Volume Music

Martin McAloon was the bass player and a founding member of Prefab Sprout.

Martin will be performing a 2-hour show featuring a large selection of Prefab Sprout songs from their 40 years in the music industry, stripped back to the bare necessities, the raw elements of how they were first performed when originally written by his brother Paddy - before the bells, whistles and budget were added.

Expect all the hits; Cars and Girls, When Love Breaks Down & The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and much, much more! Following a fall during the pandemic that broke one wrist and a car accident that damaged the other arm, Martin used the guitar and the songs as a form of rehabilitation.

Martin has been involved in the music industry since he was a teenager releasing the early Sprout records on his own label Candle Records, he's lectured on music and art at colleges and universities and was instrumental in setting up the UKs leading music development agency, Generator Northeast.

He is also a visual artist who exhibits under the pseudonym Feliks Culpa whose work is in collections worldwide and has exhibited at the Royal Academy and ICA London, Liverpool Museum of Popular Music, and Manchester Contemporary.

“These songs are the DNA that runs through me - the writing is pristine and it's an honour to be able to play them in a live environment once again.” Martin McAloon

AFTER SELLING OUT IN 2023, WE’RE THRILLED TO WELCOME THE KAST OFF KINKS BACK TO WORTHING

Not to be missed! The Kast off Kinks include former members of the legendary band ‘The Kinks’. This great line-up features Mick Avory (Founding member of The Kinks and the original drummer on all the classic hits from 1964-84), Mark Haley (keyboards/vocals, Kinks 1989-93, also played with The Rubettes), Mike Steed (bass/vocals, playing history with Love Affair, Chip Hawkes, Marmalade, The Rubettes & Mike Pender).

These high-class professionals are then fronted by the equally talented and charismatic Dave Clarke (guitar/main vocals). Dave made three albums with the Noel Redding band, two solo albums as Dave Carlsen and the Dream Machine, one with Jimmy McCulloch, and several others including Mick Avory, Dave Rowberry, Tim Rose and Keith Moon. Dave has been a member of the Kast Off Kinks since it was formed almost thirty years ago.

Expect all the hits, including You Really Got Me, Dedicated Follower of Fashion, Sunny Afternoon, Lola, Days, Waterloo Sunset, Come Dancing, and many more for a great night out!

“A full house, and a standing ovation. To anyone wondering about going, do not hesitate”
(The Stables, Milton Keynes)

“Nothing short of superb. From start to finish it was filled with hit after hit”
(Mad Ferret, Preston)

By Arrangement with Selective Agency

LEGENDARY 80S OUTFIT CHINA CRISIS RETURN TO THE FACTORY LIVE AFTER THEIR SELL OUT GIG IN 2023

China Crisis were never your run-of-the-mill 80s pop band. Formed in Liverpool by singer Gary Daly and guitarist Eddie Lundon, they distilled their love of David Bowie and Steely Dan into an exquisitely melancholy post-punk sound that saw them win their just chart rewards.

Has there ever been a more wistful Top 10 hit than the charming Wishful Thinking? Their hero Walter Becker – of Steely Dan fame – was so impressed he even became a band member back in 1985, producing and playing on Top 10 album Flaunt the Imperfection, and returning for 1989’s hugely acclaimed Diary of a Hollow Horse. And, all the while, the hits kept rolling in… Christian, Black Man Ray and King in a Catholic Style all made their way into the UK Top 20.

WITH SPECIAL GUEST SKY TV PRESENTER AND AWARD-WINNING ARTIST STACEY JACKSON

Stacey Jackson is an award-winning singer/songwriter, entrepreneur, TV presenter and mother of four.

She became an inspiration for stay-at-home moms when she shot to fame, having launched her music career at age 40. Following the chart success of her debut single, Stacey has gone on to release four albums and over a dozen singles, recorded a track “Live It Up” with legendary rapper Snoop Dogg. She has also worked with Papa Levi and prolific dance music producers and remixers such as C-Rod and Dave Audé. She’s toured the world from stadiums to floats at Pride, stepping out in her trademark high heels & hot-pants.

Her weekly music show “Stacey Jackson In The 80s” also premiered in June 2021 on Spotlight TV which airs on Sky as well as other satellite providers. Her novel “How A Gangsta Rapper Made Me A Better Mom” has seen huge success.

As fitness also plays a huge part in Stacey’s life, she launched her patented workout top called Staefit – created to tackle issues women may have while working out and through her online workout videos she encourages women to be the best possible versions of themselves.