Peter Hook offers showcase to unsigned bands

Unsigned musicians are to be given a TV showcase with the help of former New Order and Joy Division bassist Peter Hook.

A new television show called The Source will allow acts in search of a record contract to present their music to viewers, who will then vote for their favourites.

Hook, whose hits include Blue Monday and Love Will Tear Us Apart, has described this as an alternative to The X Factor which is genuinely about nurturing emerging musical talent.

Indeed, it will not feature a judging panel along the lines of those favoured by Simon Cowell, as the public will make all the decisions.

The Source will be staged at The Factory, a venue owned by the Mancunian music legend which regularly hosts unknown acts and gives them 50 per cent of the takings on the door.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Hook said: "As a musician I'm supporting The Source because it will give unsigned artists the exposure they need."

The programme will commence on Sky Channel 203 in September.

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