Should radio do more for Manx artists?

Support the local scene says musician

There's been a call for local media to do more in support of contemporary music.

It comes after comments from traditional artist Tom Callister a fortnight ago, whose band ímar took home a prize at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Callister claimed the Island's scene was 'undervalued', and that many Manx musicians lack the confidence to promote themselves.

His remarks stirred debate on social media, with some arguing not enough prominence is given to local artists in Manx Radio's output.

Hip-hop musician Han-FX, real name Keiran Hannifin, was one of them.

He notices a 'gap' between the media and the music scene, and has called on the broadcaster to adopt a more 'local-friendly' music policy.

But Manx Radio's Controller of Programming and Content, Alex Brindley, says many local musicians are showcased in daytime and specialist programmes - and a suggested roster of 'one in ten' local songs might not be appropriate: