Liverpool singer-songwriter Jamie Webster has publicly endorsed Andy Burnham ahead of the Labour leadership announcement, praising the expected Prime Minister-in-waiting for his approachability and commitment to northern voices. Webster, 32, shared his support days before Burnham is anticipated to become Labour leader following Keir Starmer's resignation last month.
Webster Believes Burnham Will Amplify Northern Voices
Webster expressed confidence that Burnham will make politics more accessible and ensure that people from all backgrounds feel heard. 'I think it'll help the North a lot better. If anything, what Andy Burnham does is he makes politics a bit more approachable,' Webster said. 'At least we can maybe be heard up here in the North, and real people can actually have a voice, and get it to the right places.'
The singer, who hails from Liverpool, also highlighted Burnham's work on the Hillsborough tragedy and his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester. Webster noted his personal interactions with Burnham, including time spent together at Glastonbury Festival. 'I have met Andy a few times, and from what I have with my own personal experience, which is all you can ever really judge people off in the first instance, isn't it? My personal experience with Andy's always been really good; he's always been really polite, really friendly, had a lot of time, not just for me, but other people around him. And, I've actually spent a bit of time in Glastonbury with Andy. I don't think Keir Starmer's ever been to Glastonbury,' he added.
New Music Amid Political Turmoil
Webster's endorsement coincides with the release of his new single, 'Small Town Life,' and his upcoming album 'Running Round The Sun,' set for release on September 4. Despite political uncertainty, Webster remains focused on his music, which he describes as his best work yet. 'I do genuinely believe that these songs and this album reflect some of my best work, and, hopefully, that shines through no matter what the political agenda is,' he said.
Reflecting on the challenges of creating art during turbulent times, Webster admitted he had lost his creative direction but found his way back by focusing on storytelling and people. 'I'd lost my sense of what I'm writing about, what I'm writing for. I had a bit of a period where I found it quite tough, but I just put my faith in my stories and my storytelling and the people really, and I thought, 'I'll just write about people and life,' and it's got to shine through whichever side of the fence you're on,' he explained.
Working-Class Roots and Community Focus
Webster's music remains rooted in working-class experiences, emphasizing community and small victories. 'It's about a chance for change, take back a bit of our power and have our voices heard. I just think, with my songs, they're about how you can maybe get ahead in life, the little victories that you can take from your day, which is going to put a smile on your face when you go home from work,' he said.
His new album 'Running Round The Sun' is more personal than previous releases, including his 2024 album '10 for the People,' which charted at Number 2. Webster draws inspiration from Bob Dylan but remains committed to sharing stories of working-class struggles and quirks. 'My message is that we should all just look after each other a bit more and help each other out,' he stated.
Supporting Emerging Artists
Webster continues to use his platform to uplift younger musicians, opting to book emerging artists as support acts on his tours rather than established names. He praised bands like The Royston Club from Wrexham, who have achieved success through hard work. 'There are up-and-coming bands, as well, like The Royston Club, who are doing really well at the moment, you know. Four lads from Wrexham, they've been in Liverpool a couple of years, and they work harder than anyone I've ever known, and now they're reaping the rewards for it,' he said.
His advice to aspiring musicians: 'Take your work seriously, but don't take yourself seriously.'
Music Video Features Scouse Legends
The video for 'Small Town Life' is packed with famous faces, including Ricky Tomlinson from 'The Royle Family,' former MMA star Molly McCann, ex-Lioness Toni Duggan, and Paddy Rowan. Webster described Tomlinson as a 'national treasure' and a 'real salt of the earth character.' The video also features a young fan, Ollie Hobson, who had been sending Webster videos since age 11 and had the 'best day of his life' during the shoot.
Despite having three Top 10 albums and selling out arenas and 30,000-capacity parks in Liverpool, Webster remains unsigned to a major label and absent from major radio playlists. He expressed pride in his independence: 'I'd rather have my head up high knowing that I'm standing on my own two feet, on the right side of history and talking about the right things and using my platform for the right reasons. I'm probably prouder than if I'd have sold out and gone to a stadium artist overnight.'
Upcoming Tour and Future Plans
Later this year, Webster will embark on an intimate tour across cities including Sheffield, Manchester, London, Bristol, and the Isle of Man. He will perform full 18-song setlists with a band, marking a return to full-band shows after an acoustic tour for the fifth anniversary of his debut album 'We Get By.' He also plans to tour America, Canada, and Australia. Despite his success, Webster remains committed to grassroots venues and artists, continuing to offer support slots to emerging talent.
'Small Town Life' is available now, and 'Running Round The Sun' is set for release on September 4.
