Wall of Fame welcomes Kenickie to Sunderland’s musical story
New artwork recognises the band’s lasting influence on the city’s music scene
A new artwork celebrating Sunderland indie band Kenickie has been unveiled in the city centre, marking the latest addition to the city’s growing Music Wall of Fame.
The piece was revealed outside The Fire Station, forming part of an ongoing initiative to honour some of the city’s most influential musical voices while inspiring future generations of artists.
Commissioned by Sunderland Music City in partnership with The Fire Station, the artwork has been created by Sunderland-based illustrator Kathryn Robertson, who works under the name ‘KR Illustrates’.
Formed in the mid-1990s, Kenickie rose to prominence during the Britpop era, gaining national recognition for their distinctive blend of punk energy, indie pop sensibility and outspoken attitude.
The band – made up of Lauren Laverne, Marie du Santiago (Marie Nixon), Johnny X (Pete Gofton) and Emmy-Kate Montrose (Emma Jackson) – released acclaimed albums At the Club (1997) and Get In (1998), helping cement their place in the UK’s alternative music landscape.
Marie and Emma were present for the unveiling, which brought together fans, members of the public and the local creative community to celebrate the latest addition to the Wall of Fame.
Marie, who is theatre director at Sunderland Empire, said: “I’m incredibly proud to see us recognised on the Sunderland Music Wall of Fame. The city’s music scene has come such a long way since we started out in the 90s, and it’s genuinely exciting to see the breadth of opportunities now available for artists.
“From grassroots venues like Pop Recs and Independent to The Fire Station and the Empire, there are now stages of every size for talent to perform, be creative and have fun. To be part of that journey - and now part of Sunderland’s musical story - is a real honour. I can’t wait to see who’s next!”
Michelle Daurat, CEO of Sunderland Music City, said: “We’re proud to celebrate Kenickie as true pioneers of Sunderland’s music story. Their influence continues to be felt today, and this commission ensures their contribution is recognised in a way that is visible, lasting, and inspiring.”
The Wall of Fame, located in Sunderland’s Culture Quarter, has become a prominent tribute to the city’s rich musical heritage, with each new installation adding to a growing public record of artists who have helped shape its identity.
The latest addition sits alongside mural representations of Eurythmics star Dave Stewart and Field Music.
Rhys McKinnell, CEO of The Fire Station and Culture Quarter, said: “As the Wall of Fame continues to grow, it’s becoming a powerful way to celebrate artists who come from Sunderland and the impact this city has had on music far beyond its boundaries.
“Welcoming Kenickie onto the wall is about recognising Sunderland-made talent and making those contributions visible, valued and proudly part of our public space. It’s a privilege to see this installation develop into a lasting record of Sunderland’s cultural influence, both regionally and beyond.”