The two-day event will include LIVE showcases, Music Workshops, Industry Seminars, In-store performances and more!

The Scottish Alternative Music Awards (SAMAs) will return in March with their first event of 2018 taking place in Paisley, bringing a two-day showcase and celebration of grassroots music to the thriving town.

This will include an array of industry seminars and speakers covering “How to do D.I.Y Music in 2018” and “When is the best time to showcase yourself to the music Industry?” plus live sets across various Paisley venues, including the Arts Centre and record shop Feel The Groove.

The event will provide an insight into the music industry and showcase Scottish talent. The event is being funded by Renfrewshire Council through the area’s Culture Heritage and Events Fund, which was created as part of Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021 and will continue to form the legacy of that.

Renfrewshire Council deputy leader Jim Paterson said: “Paisley has a rich musical history, a thriving contemporary music scene and is now well established as a key destination within Scotland for music and events – making the town a perfect fit for this event. “We created the Culture, Heritage and Events Fund to boost the local creative scene in the area as part of Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021 – and that fund continues as part of the legacy of that.

“That means Paisley can continue to attract well-respected national events such as the SAMAs – giving local talent a platform to show what they can do and meet key industry figures from across Scotland.” Festival manager Richy Muirhead says: “We’re thrilled to be hosting a range of new music events in Paisley this March! The SAMAs Takeover is a great opportunity for people to come and see some of Scotland’s new and exciting artists at the showcases, and learn about the industry at the seminars, and everything else in between from in-store performances and workshops!”

The first act announced are Paisley natives, disco-synth quartet The Vegan Leather who will be hosting their own workshop at Paisley Arts Centre as they unlock the key to their signature pop sound featuring a lesson in songwriting plus Q&A! The full line-up will be revealed throughout January. For tickets visit Eventbrite UK and Paisley Arts Centre.

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Founder of Paisley.org.uk in 1998 and constantly strives to change peoples attitudes to the town, Brian is a self described Paisley Digital Champion who promotes Paisley via any means necessary. You can also follow me on X