A Preston lad who ‘happens to have a disability’ has set up an independent music label.

Michael Farrow launched the Preston-based label, Northern Delinquency, in September 2023 to work with local artists to promote and nourish homegrown music.

Michael was previously in bands himself, including Radio Rivals and Saviours, and has been a finalist in Preston Battle of the Bands.

Here, Michael shares how he built the label from scratch, his progress since launch, and his hopes for the future.

Why did you start Northern Delinquency?

I started the label after finding many barriers to support my output as a creative person who happens to have a disability. I decided to take matters into my own hands by building a studio from scratch with my retired dad, Bob, a skilled former joiner’s apprentice in his youth and jack of many trades.

As well as making a creative space and platform for my own music, I also wanted to try and inspire others with a disability or who have faced challenges to continue with their creativity. The label is eager to share their knowledge, experience and support to local musicians especially individuals who may face barriers such as disability or mental heath challenges.

Tell us more about your disability.

The disability I have is called Marfan syndrome. This rare genetic condition has resulted in two major heart surgeries, retinal attachment surgery and several throat operations.

Fortunately my mechanical metal valves now fixed to my heart work very well as a loud metronome! This condition means I have also developed fibromyalgia and arthritis, proving an extra challenge when trying to manage a label and keep productive.

What was life like growing up, and how did you get into music?

My mum, Liz, passed away from the condition I have when I was 11, and my dad had to step up and take on a lot when there was no support on offer at the time. He has helped me tremendously over the years with my recoveries.

This is why music plays such a pivotal role in keeping a positive outlook when dealing with what life throws at me. I also still have all of my mum’s old instruments too such as her accordion so it’s nice to use these instruments on songs when possible as it keeps her spirit going.

Who else inspires you?

I soon found myself going off the rails a bit after my mum died as, back in the 1990s, there was no counselling or support on offer. Fortunately a renowned local youth worker, by the name of Ron Blenkinship, somehow created this amazing safe space for me to just be myself. He gave me the confidence to have a go at things to outlet my energy into creative pursuits like music and drama.

Unfortunately Ron has since passed away from cancer, however, the work he did with not just myself but countless other young people will last a lifetime. He helped inspire me to become a youth worker for over a decade before qualifying as a teacher.

Back to the label – tell us about Northern Delinquency’s releases so far.

The label has released six singles. One produced by myself under artist name MEFODIST was played on BBC Introducing a number of times and featured in their Top 20. The track, Did I Tell You, features talented local vocalist Ruby Grace O’Brien.

In November we released a track called Older. The inspiration behind the track was unearthing old family cine film in the loft. The song is a nostalgic look back over the years and the realisation of just how quick time becomes faded memories.

The track is complemented with a video featuring original cine film of me growing up in Preston. This was made with help from local creative Erin Morris, who is studying Psychology at UCLan. Many Prestonians will recognise some of the old sights and share some of the very same memories from their childhood.

How did you celebrate the first anniversary of Northern Delinquency?

We had a birthday night at Chain House Brewing Co and Taproom. The night featured Deery DJ, Ryan and Craig in addition to Belfast multi-musician, JBR Project. Chain House were kind enough to host the event for free to support the label, and we raised £500 for local charities as all the artists donated their fees.

What would you like to achieve in future?

Ideally it would be great to develop a creative network of like-minded organisations, such as the successful DJ Social, that promotes social and mental wellbeing among DJs. And the other great work people are doing such as Blakey at Soundskills, Jon Aveyard, Radio Leyland amongst a few.

I believe a joined up approach in the local area to promote greater opportunity and support for creatives would be a powerful and hugely beneficial movement.

What would you say to others thinking about following their dreams?

If a Preston lad like me with a disability can create an independent music label from scratch without much support from the local arts, business or music community then what’s stopping you achieve what you want?

To find out more, visit the Northern Delinquency website or follow @northerndelinquency on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. You can also email Michael at info@northerndelinquency.com

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