An 11 year old boy from Market Drayton could be set for music stardom after he beat off competition from other hopefuls to win a place in a band set up by Beacon Radio.
Luke Wall, who is in Year 7 at the Grove, earned himself the role of guitarist in the band created in an on-air competition run by Beacon DJ James Carpenter.
Now the group has been spotted by music mogul Gavin Monaghan who rose to prominence as the producer of the popular Britpop band Ocean Colour Scene.
DJ James, explained: “It all started as a bit of fun with me inviting my listeners who play musical instruments to play them down the phone but it has now turned into something much bigger.
“We now have our very own Made Up Beacon Band. To be honest I’m amazed we got to the stage where we got them all in the studio together and how good they were having just met for the first time.
“The whole thing has been born out of radio calls. Now we have had Gavin Monaghan express an interest in the band and I know plans are underway for a first gig and a first recording of a song.”
Luke, speaking with his dad Nick, said: “I called into the radio station after James asked for people to audition live on his show. I wasn’t nervous and just felt that it was a good opportunity.
“I really enjoy playing the guitar and try to practice every day. We’ve all only met up as a band once but Gavin Monaghan, who produced Ocean Colour Scene, is interested in us so were hoping to announce some tour dates soon.”
Despite his young age Luke has a big passion for music but he doesn’t restrict himself to just what is in the charts.
“My favourite bands are Guns ‘N’ Roses and AC DC,” he said. “But I do like a bit of everything really.”
His dad, Nick added: “He is a talented boy and can play almost anything after listening to it a few times. When he’s had a tough day at school he comes home and takes it out on his guitar – he really enjoys it. He also plays at the open Mic nights at the Joiners in town. He always has to stop at nine o’clock though because he’s not old enough to stay.”
Anyone wanting to catch a glimpse of the band can witness their first ever performance on the Beacon radio website at www.beaconradio.co.uk
By Joseph Masi