Winding back the tapes: A look into the music history of Essex.

Most people assume that because they don't live somewhere as big as London that there isn't much music history on their doorstep. I for one was one of those people. Therefore I was pleasantly surprised to see the sort of talent Essex has produced over the years.

Some resident artists include:

The prodigy.

Mcfly.

Pixie Lott.

Ollie Murs.

To name just a few...

The artists that are associated with Essex have brought diverse sound, and attention to the area.

Essex in general provides endless amounts of unsigned acts that flood small venues, that for a small fee offer a good night out for music lovers.

Chinnery's, one of Southend's most well known music venues was refurbished from an older pub in 1988. The venue has seen the likes of Pearl Jam, Stereophonics, and Ellie Goulding perform under its roof, creating a strong foundation for a diverse and lively music scene.

Most local bands enjoy playing there, as its one of the only local venues where they can stand where their heroes once stood.

Another small independent venue can be located in the basement of 'The Royal Hotel.' It was this venue that provided 'The Horrors' debut performance, one of the most well known rock bands to emerge from the area.

Essex's music history travels back decades, to the folk sound of the old Leigh pubs, the punk thrash of Southend, to the calmer pop sound waves that are travelling around the county in recent years. Although like most things, music follows trends, there is a sound for everyone in a small venue hidden in Essex exploring their hometowns inspiration.

From The horrors, The Prodigy, to Pixie Lott, Essex has provided more talent than we give it credit for. Sometimes you just have to look that little deeper to find the hidden treasures.