INTERVIEW: Tyne & Queer

One thing the North East is really good at is putting on a world class gig – and one of the brilliant minds behind many of these world class gigs is Beck, founding (and now sole) operator of music promotion and non-profit organisation Tyne & Queer. Not only is Tyne & Queer one of the best named companies you might ever find, it’s an incredible operation which platforms the typically under-represented voices of disabled and LGBTQ+ individuals.

“Me and Josh [Beck’s partner] started Tyne & Queer back in 2022. I spent a lot of time researching and learning about accessibility in local spaces and music venues driven by a need to make the arts more inclusive. From the start, mine and Josh’s goal was to create a platform that celebrates and uplifts queer and disabled artists – people like myself – by giving them a space to share their work and fully express who they are.” Since its formation, Tyne & Queer has brought some of the nation’s most exciting acts to venues across the region, platforming established and upcoming artists.

“I’m disabled, autistic and queer. We started Tyne & Queer because we didn’t see many spaces in the music scene that really made room for people like me. Queer and disabled voices get left out way too often – whether it’s on stage, in the crowd, or just how events are run. It can feel pretty isolating. For me, it’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about making sure people really feel safe, seen and respected.”

It’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about making sure people really feel safe, seen and respected.

With so much success, and the kind of ethos which makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside – though it should be the standard – I was curious to know what Beck feels the most proud of concerning Tyne & Queer. “A personal highlight has been meeting so many amazing, creative people. I’ve been lucky to build a supportive network and gain opportunities I never imagined. I’ve had guidance from the Byker Grave team and the Wandering Oak team, and from Wipe Out Music and the Singing Light crew, who’ve shown me real kindness in a tough industry. It’s just nice to know I have the support of so many people, it means the world to me.”

Beck also shares some of their favourite local artists: Georgina Gale, Du Blonde, Melanie Baker and their longtime friend Evan, to name a few. They’ll be platforming even more favourites at Ouseburn Festival this year, where Tyne & Queer have their very own stage.

“I’m really excited to be putting on a stage at Ouseburn Festival this year. We’ve been working together for two years now, and it’s been a really natural, supportive relationship,” Beck continued. “Our stage this year will be at The Cluny and the Ouseburn Bandstand. It’s my first time producing a full two-day festival, so it kind of feels like a big moment for Tyne & Queer. You can expect a proper mix of the best queer and disabled musicians from around Newcastle doing what they do best. This one is a little bit less loud than normal (sorry), but should be a mint two days.” Ever busy, Tyne & Queer have lots of other stuff coming up, so I urge you to keep your eyes open for them.

Tyne & Queer’s stage at Ouseburn Festival runs at The Cluny on Saturday 5th July and the Ouseburn Bandstand on Sunday 6th July.