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A new Blackpool-based record label is aiming to provide a platform for local talent and smash the myth that performers have to move to London to make it big in the recording industry.

Smash Bros Records is looking to get Blackpool musicians well established on the worldwide commercial music scene.

It has been launched by business partners James Bates and Ryan Wallace, both with performance backgrounds of their on and eager to make the most of he wide variety of talent in Blackpool.Their aim is to get the town back on the map for excellent music, pushing local, up-and-coming talent out to the worldwide audience with major releases on digital platforms such as Itunes, Amazon music, Spotify, Deezer as well as organising live performance dates for maximum coverage.James said: ‘’This label is the start of something truly special for Blackpool. We want to help young, upcoming fresh talent push themselves for better and get the word out there that Blackpool has phenomenal talent waiting to be discovered.

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James Bates and Ryan Wallace have set up Smash Bros Records, a label for bands and artists in Blackpool and the surrounding area

"We want each artist on our roster to discover their true maximum potential.”Ryan added: ‘’I am very excited for the future of this project. Both myself and James have extensive knowledge of the commercial music scene - being established artists of many years ourselves.

"We have passion, drive and ambition and will give this our all – not just for us, and for the artists, but also for Blackpool as a town, because this project is something that Blackpool has needed for a very long time.’’

The pair have been attending a host of open mic nights around the resort and have been thoroughly impressed by the standard and depth of the talent on show.

"Over the years, I’ve tired of hearing that London and other big cities are the only place to make it – why not Blackpool?” said James. “We want to smash that myth.”

Smash Bros Records are holding unsigned nights in the coming weeks where scouts from the label will be present, giving local talent the opportunity to perform with the possibility of a recording contract with the label on the table.

A showcase of the talent found so far is planned for Layton Institute on March 24, with tickets available at Eventbrite.James and Ryan can be contacted via www.smashbrosrecords.com

New Blackpool record label aims to Smash the myth that the big city is the only place to make it