Thanet has a rich musical heritage, offering both inspiration and opportunity for aspiring musicians.
Here, you’ll find the chance to develop your skills, connect with the local music scene, and start your journey towards a career in music.
Whether you’re interested in performance, production, or song writing, you could follow in the footsteps of these musical legends by studying at EKC Broadstairs College.
David Bowie
In 1965, David Bowie developed his musical career as the lead singer with ‘The Lower Third’, a rock band formed in Margate. They became his backing band for a brief period as he established himself in the music industry.
Early songs include ‘You’ve Got a Habit of Leaving’ and ‘Can’t Help Thinking About Me’, The Margate band were essentially a stepping stone in David Bowie’s journey to becoming one of the most iconic musicians of all time.
By playing in the band, Bowie was able to experiment with his image, experience live gigs, and understand more of the music industry.
The Libertines
The Libertines have established a strong connection to Thanet, setting up ‘The Albion Rooms’ a recording studio and hotel in Margate.
They have performed multiple times at local venues, including a sold-out concert at the Oval Bandstand in Cliftonville in August 2022.
In late 2023, they also filmed the music video for their single “Run Run Run” in Margate, featuring local landmarks such as Dreamland, the Clock Tower, Turner Contemporary and the Cliftonville Lido.
They’re best known for their hit songs ‘Don’t Look Back into the Sun’ and ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’.
Mike Stock
Born in Margate, Mike Stock is a renowned musician, songwriter and record producer, best known as a member of the songwriting and production team ‘Stock Aitken Waterman.’
Inspired by Pop Music, he put together his first band at age 13.
His work has significantly influenced the pop music landscape, with Number 1 hits including ‘You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)’ by Dead or Alive, ‘I Should Be So Lucky’ by Kylie Minogue, and ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ by Rick Astley.
Gorillaz
In 2017, the virtual band Gorillaz created and performed at ‘Demon Dayz’, a one-day festival at Dreamland Margate. Attracting a crowd of 15,000, the festival put Thanet and Dreamland on the map in terms of musical status, and it highlighted the venue’s capacity to host major acts.
Demon Dayz welcomed acts including Vince Staples, De La Soul, Fufanu, Danny Brown, Little Simz, Kali Uchis, Popcaan and Kilo Kish to the area.
The day celebrated a wide range of genres and musical styles, which you could explore further at College.
Rag’n’Bone Man
In 2024, BRIT award-winning singer Rag’n’Bone Man filmed the music video for his song “Pocket” in Thanet. The video features iconic local spots including Margate seafront, Dreamland and Reaperz Inc Tattoo.
Rag’n’Bone Man gained widespread recognition with his 2016 single ‘Human’, which became a hit worldwide. His debut album of the same name was released in 2017 and achieved commercial success.
Thanks to his genre-mixing and love of music, he has also won many awards over the past decade, including multiple BRIT Awards.
The Kooks
In 2018, indie rock band The Kooks chose Margate as the backdrop for their music video “Pamela.”
The whole video was filmed entirely on the Cliftonville Lido, with the band performing and playing live on the seafront.
Their other songs include ‘She Moves in her Own Way’, and ‘Always Where I Need to Be’.
If you’re inspired by the musical acts and events that have shaped Thanet, studying at College could be your first step toward a music career.
Our programmes offer the opportunity to explore different genres, develop your skills, and collaborate with other like-minded individuals.
With direct ties to the local music scene, students have the chance to get involved in exciting opportunities, from live performances to behind-the-scenes work.
Thanet itself has many opportunities for performance, including Broadstairs Folk Week. Held annually in August, this event transforms the town into a spotlight of folk music, dance, and culture. With over 400 events, including concerts and workshops, it attracts musicians and enthusiasts from across the UK.
Additionally, Dreamland in Margate serves as a key music venue in the area, hosting a variety of performances and events during the year, from concerts by global artists to local DJ nights.
By studying at EKC Broadstairs College, you’ll get the opportunity to make your own mark in the music world, so explore or apply for one of our Music courses today.
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