Inspirational TV star brings first tour to region

Daniel Wakeford is helping to lead the way for the UK’s burgeoning learning disabled music scene and will be in Sheffield on July 16 at The Broomhall Centre, Broomspring Lane.

The Brighton-based artist delivers pure and ecstatic pop from a charismatic and honest perspective.

Daniel, who has autism, has been described as a “legend and inspiration” by BBC 6music presenter Marc Riley.

Having performed in and around Brighton and London for years, he is known for winning over audiences every time with his joy and enthusiasm.

These qualities are what also shone through on Channel 4’s BAFTA-nominated dating show, The Undateables, which followed people with disabilities and learning difficulties looking for love.

This month he embarks on his first tour promoting his new album, The Songs of Gigs.

Daniel said his songs are about his life and the things he loves, from his family and friends, to bad feelings and even Beethoven.

His album has been released through learning disability arts organisation Carousel and he has teamed up with Constant Flux, with funding from Arts Council England, to put together the tour.

Constant Flux was started by Richard Phoenix, from the punk band Sauna Youth, in 2013 to create more opportunities for musicians with learning disabilities. 

Constant Flux aims to develop integrated, accessible shows and has combined two seemingly separate areas of music – the learning disabled music scene and the UK’s large DIY music community. 

Tickets for Daniel’s Sheffield gig can be bought via partyforthepeople.org and carers/support workers get in for free.

Toucans, The Clubland Detectives and The Lawnmowers will also be performing.

The gig starts at 7pm tickets cost £5, to buy visit http://tinyurl.com/zevol34