East Devon Soul CIC was formed in 2024 by two experienced music industry professionals, Simon Strange and Andrew Pilkington. They have worked as musicians, producers, event organisers, educators and mentors for upcoming musicians across the UK and beyond. One fateful day they bumped into each other in the sometimes forgotten town of Seaton, a second home for both of them, reared on the cultural Bristol environment. Simon and Andy had previously met at BIMM, a music institute including alumni such as the Kooks and George Ezra, Gardna or James Bay. They recognised the untapped potential of Seaton and the lack of any cultural outlet for the young and old in the region. Neighbouring Sidmouth and Lyme Regis have really upped their game over the last few years with Seafest, Sidmouth Jazz and the Marine Theatre bringing an array of talented artists to East Devon. The aim is to bring Seaton up to their recognition levels, to ignite the town, utilise the numerous incredible resources that already exist, to foster the amazing community spirit which already exists but hasn’t tapped into the music industry.
East Devon Soul Festival is the conclusion of a few years of pilot gigs, testing the market, seeing what works across a range of genres. We aim for this to be a regular event, slowly growing and becoming an established marker on the UK festival circuit. Featuring music that has soul, across all genres. If you would like to support the longevity of our plans then please support us. This is currently our hobby, our side hustle alongside full time roles. Your support will mean that future events are possible, that upcoming musicians will have a stage, a platform to unleash their potential. Your support will help put Seaton on the map, to enliven its high street, to provide something for people to do. To live their best lives.
Thank you
Simon and Andy
