For local artists, Manchester’s Deaf Institute is an important stepping stone for climbing the city’s music venue ladder.
And for Ewan Sim, it is the latest landmark show following an incredible 2025 which saw the Manchester artist selling out hometown shows, releasing his debut EP, and receiving widespread industry acclaim.
He was also snapped up to the same management team as The Rolling Stones and Celine Dion…
We caught up with Ewan ahead of his Deaf Institute show on Saturday 21st February 2026…
We discussed what to expect from the live performance, as well as his inspirations, coming through in Manchester, and plenty more!
For anyone who hasn’t heard of you, sum yourself up as an artist?
Ewan: “I’m a Manchester singer-songwriter making genre-blending tunes that sit somewhere between indie, pop, rock and soul. It’s all built around raw vocals, honest lyrics and big emotion. If you haven’t heard of me and my music – please go and listen to the tunes. That’s the best way to know what I’m about.”
Which bands/artists inspire you most?
Ewan: “I’ve always been drawn to singer’s voices — past and present — more than any one genre. Artists like Paolo Nutini, Sinatra, Marvin Gaye and Maverick Sabre have all shaped me, and growing up in the north, bands like Oasis and Arctic Monkeys have had a real impact on me. If it’s got soul and truth in it, I’m in. That’s what I’m chasing with my own music — when someone hears it, I want them to actually feel something.”
Is coming from Manchester a blessing or a curse coming through in such an iconic city with big names?
Ewan: “Honestly, both — but 99% a blessing. Manchester has produced legends, so there’s definitely pressure, but it also raises the standard. The city makes you stay grounded, and be real. I am extremely proud to be a Manchester artist.”
You signed to the same management as The Rolling Stones and Celine Dion, how is it to be in that company and how has the new management benefited you as an artist so far?
Ewan: “It’s genuinely mad — still doesn’t feel real saying it out loud. It’s an honour to be on a roster like that, but it’s also motivating because it pushes you to level up. I’m really thankful that they’ve put their faith in me. It has inspired me to believe in myself more – after grafting away to get the validation is incredible. Behind the scenes, they’re genuinely really great people.”
Joe McGrath described you as having “One of the best voices in Manchester”, how did that feel?
Ewan: “I was buzzing, honestly. Manchester has an unreal amount of talent, so to hear that from Joe and BBC Radio Manchester meant a lot. Joe is a top guy and really well respected – It felt like a real moment — like, okay, keep going, you’re on the right path.”
You’re playing Deaf Institute on 21st February, how are you feeling about this home show?
Ewan: “I’m really excited and a bit emotional about it, if I’m honest. I played Gullivers last year for my EP Launch which was sold out – it was a mega mega night. So now to be doing my biggest ever headline in my home city at the iconic The Deaf Institute is massive. Manchester means so much to me. It feels like a proper step forward. I can’t wait to share the room with the people who’ve backed me so far, and I’d love to see loads of new faces in there too.”
What can people expect from the live performance?
Ewan: “Expect big vocals, raw storytelling and proper good for your soul energy. I’ll be up there with my incredible band and we’re putting everything into it. Like I said earlier if you listen to my recorded tunes – the live show hits on an even bigger level. It’s so important to me to give people a proper show – I’m putting all I’ve got into making this a really special night for everyone.”
What does the future hold for Ewan Sim and what is the dream?
Ewan: “More music, bigger shows, and hopefully taking what started in Manchester to as many places as possible. I recently got the amazing opportunity to record a live session in the new adidas originals/abbey road studio at the Co-op live in Manchester, which is set for release before the Deaf Institute show, which will be cool for people to hear. The dream is to build a body of work that really means something to people. Music has given so much to me, so If I can do that for others – inspire them and give them a song that might help them through something. That’s the whole point for me.”
Tickets are available to watch Ewan Sim at the Deaf Institute, Manchester, on Saturday 21st February 2026 HERE.
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