University of Wolverhampton graduate claims award from record label

Keira Carter, who studied for a popular music degree at University of Wolverhampton's School of Performing Arts, landed the prize from Revolver Music.

The 20-year-old was given The Anthony Wilson Prize for Excellence in Popular Music and £250 for excelling in her music studies.

The award, sponsored by Revolver Music, is presented to one graduate per year over the next five years.

The record label, which has a base in Wolverhampton, has signed The Stone Roses, Jaynes Addiction, Magnum and hundreds of others across Europe and North America.

Paul Birch from Revolver Music said: “Anthony Wilson was the owner of Factory Records in Manchester and also the Hacienda nightclub.

"He signed Joy Division, New Order, James and the Happy Mondays – he was also a continuity announcer and a newsreader on Granada TV.

“He sadly passed away ten years ago after battling with cancer and this annual prize is designed to keep his name alive.

"His flair, can-do attitude and determination singled him out as a unique and stoic entrepreneur. He went from famous to legend when Steve Coogan played him in the film, 24 Hour Party People, which documented the iconic Manchester label and nightclub that he founded.

“We hope that a prize award in his name will inspire music students for generations to come.”

Keira, from Birmingham, released her first single on Spotify and iTunes after composing a song suitable to celebrate the class of 2018.

She said:: “I am very grateful to be honoured this prize which will benefit my professional status in the music industry. I have many aspirations and goals set out for my music career including working with videographers to shoot a music video for the Graduation Song of 2018 “You Light Me Up” with the help of local creatives.

“I am looking forward to my future now that I have collected the skills I needed in order for me to progress and appreciate all the help from people I have met along the way to make this journey possible.”

Anyone interested in studying at the School of Performing Arts should register for the next Open Day on October 12 by visiting https://www.wlv.ac.uk/