The Northern Music Export Office welcomes partners from Japan to the North East

Join us for a showcase and mixer from the Northern Music Export Office, welcoming partners from Japan to the North East as we celebrate the collaborative work being built between artists, industry and scenes across both regions.

Over the past year, the Northern Music Export Office, led by Generator and partners, has developed a growing programme of exchange with Japan - connecting artists, building relationships and opening up new pathways into international markets. This visit marks the first time a Japanese delegation comes to the UK as part of that exchange, with Newcastle as the first stop.

The evening offers a snapshot of that journey so far - from the partnerships being formed to the music being created through it. Artists will perform work developed through the exchange, blending scenes, sounds and ideas across borders.

This project marks the first-ever international showcase by CUEW Showcase & Conference, the organisers of the Tokyo-based festival in Shibuya. It serves as a debut overseas initiative dedicated to introducing Japanese artists to the UK music scene.

Headlined by:
Momoko & showmore

Momoko
A singer-songwriter from Okayama, Japan, currently based in Fukuoka.
She writes from a distinct, personal perspective, delivering lyrics through melodies and vocals that balance strength and vulnerability. She began her career as a solo acoustic performer and has since expanded her sound through collaborations with track makers and band members, gradually broadening her musical expression.

showmore
A duo consisting of vocalist Manami Nezu and keyboardist/producer Atsushi Inoue. After their time as a full band, they relaunched in their current lineup in September 2017. Their track “circus,” released without promotion, quickly gained attention. They released their debut album overnight in May 2018, followed by too close to know (2019), seek (2021), and liquid city (set for release in September 2024). Fusing emotional lyricism with elements of jazz and R&B, they have carved out a unique place in the pop landscape.