A promising young Liverpool musician who was tragically killed in the Bestival coach crash will be immortalised as part of the city’s new music festival.
The Liverpool Music Awards, which is now part of the Liverpool International Music Festival, is dedicating its One to Watch gong to 18 year old Michael Molloy. The up-and-coming guitarist was one of three people who lost their lives in a coach crash when returning from the Isle of White event Bestival last year.
The touching tribute is set to be a particularly emotional part of the second ever Liverpool Music Awards when it returns on Sunday 25 August.
It will the biggest and best yet. Featuring 16 awards and live performances it will be a massive celebration of musical talent from, and inspired by, the city.
Michael’s mum Frances said: “Michael has always made us so proud, and this has go to be the most fitting tribute to date. He never doubted in his short life that he would be recognised for his musical talent.
“We can’t thank Joe Anderson and the city enough, for reaching out to us, at a time when we need it most. This has brought us such comfort as it keeps Michael’s memory alive, as a musician.”
Michael’s brother Joe said: “It’s very moving to see your brother recognised in such a fitting way. He always made us proud in life with his music and everything else he did, and he still does and always will do.
“He will be so proud and happy himself knowing his name is going towards something positive in music. Michael’s memory will last on through his music and we just want to thank, the Liverpool Music Awards, Liverpool City Council and Joe Anderson for making this award so special.
“Also good luck to the nominees/recipient of this award – the Ones to Watch.”
Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson said: “Liverpool is a city incredibly proud of its talented musicians. Michael Molloy was a music lover through and through who was on his way to making his mark on the industry.
“His tragic death shook all those who knew and loved him and we wanted to do something to make sure his music lived on. And that’s why it’s a fitting tribute to name an award the Michael Molloy One to Watch Award.
“Liverpool International Music Festival is a brand new, fresh celebration of all things music and it’s wonderful this popular awards ceremony is now part of the programme.”
Director of the Liverpool Music Awards, Ellie Phillips, said: “When Joe Anderson approached me to re-name one of the awards in memory of Michael, it was something I didn’t even have to think twice about.
“I knew straight away that the One to Watch Award, which is for up and coming bands and musicians aged 16 – 21, was the award which was by far the most apt.
“I think it is brilliant that he will be remembered in this way, because he was quite clearly an up and coming musician himself.”
The Liverpool International Music Festival will take place during August and includes performances from international acts at the Echo arena along with a new stage in Sefton Park playing host to the internationally acclaimed Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and chief conductor Vasily Petrenko during the bank holiday weekend.
On the Saturday and Sunday of that weekend, there will also be two outdoor stages located at the Pier Head which will include a tribute to the Beatles and their musical legacy and will be a mixture of cover acts and original artists.
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