A new report says Sheffield’s ability to pass musical traditions between generations is the “secret ingredient” behind its repeated success in producing internationally acclaimed artists. It highlights the city’s influence through acts including Arctic Monkeys, Bring Me The Horizon, Def Leppard, Pulp and The Human League, while calling for a dedicated Sheffield Music Office to protect and develop the sector.

Sheffield artists generate almost 2 billion Spotify streams each quarter and reach more than 100 million listeners worldwide. The city’s music industry supports about 2,100 full-time-equivalent jobs across 123 venues, with its heritage spanning modern festivals and arenas, as well as older traditions such as pub carol singing and sword dancing; the report warns that further investment is needed to maintain this ecosystem.