Apollo Junction, an indie-rock band from Leeds comprising three teachers, has secured a support slot on Richard Ashcroft's upcoming tour. The band, formed 13 years ago, balances day jobs in education with a growing music career.
Lead singer Jamie Williamson, a year six teacher and music coordinator, said the opportunity came as a surprise. 'When we got the email saying, I think I've got you the Ashcroft gigs, we thought it was just lucky that Ashcroft listened to us and liked us,' he told the Mirror.
Guitarist Matt Wilson and bassist Ben Hope are also teachers. The band recently expanded to a seven-piece, adding two new members. Williamson emphasised that their day jobs enable them to continue creating music, despite the challenges of balancing both roles.
The band has previously supported Kaiser Chiefs and Shed Seven, and played a headline slot at the Isle of Wight Festival. Williamson hopes their story inspires students, saying, 'I give my example of being in a band... just because we're not a millionaire band touring around the world, there's not many that have had the longevity and success we've had.'
