As expected, Shinny has had a busy old run up to Christmas. It's been all systems go for the Salfordian singer on the campaign trail promoting his festive banger Christmas Number 1. Ever the publicist, he's provided another great campaign. And once again, he's ready to go head to head with the music industry's biggest hitters.
On Friday 22nd December, Shinny concludes his final push for the Christmas number one with a celebratory show at the seminal Manchester Academy 3. He's had another relentless run building support for the track, with live shows, charity appearances and countless celebrity endorsements.
One of the celebs, TV medium Derek Acorah, was so taken by Shinny that he invited him over to his house for a chat. The conversation was broadcast live as a warm, offbeat one hour special..."It's been different this year; there's been a lot of focus on recovery, but I'm okay with that. It caused a bit of controversy, but I'm okay with that, too" he laughs.
The interest in Shinny's story reached out further this year with other publications and organisations becoming aware of his journey..."I've had support from different places like I Love Manchester and Unilad" he explains "I've enjoyed meeting new people, and turning on the Christmas lights at Walkden was great."
He's now looking to round it all off on a high. I ask about the upcoming gig and get an unexpected reply: "I'm meeting up with Peter Hook and The Light, then the Christmas gig will be my last live show", he reveals.
Shinny sounds content and happy with the work he has done, and his twenty years a performer. He's clearly proved his point, "I've come back; I'm a fighter... I'll probably get Cinnamon Dinner to headline, so I can enjoy the gig myself."
This will be Cinnamon Dinner's first live show with a new line-up after Stephen Buckley left the group. There's no story of fall-outs and 'musical differences' here though. Former member, Stephen, will make his solo live debut on the bill, after releasing his first track, Wonderland* . Lancaster based performer EYE JAY completes the line-up and promises to bring a strong following over to Manchester to support.
There is still, however, some unfinished business for Shinny, and he will be teaming up with Peter Hook once again in the New Year to release a cover of David Bowie's Heroes to raise funds for local homeless charities. Broadcasting legend Mike Sweeney is on board with the project and fresh from 'I'm a Celebrity...' Jamie Lomas is also taking part.
The video is a collaboration between the I Love Manchester film team and top local director Chris Green. The promo will also star members of Manchester's homeless community.
To conclude, I ask Shinny if Derek Acorah had any predictions for the coming year, "Well, he said that the spirits are with me...".
I'm sure he's right. In the meantime, be sure to catch Shinny and company at Academy 3. What better way to start the festive period, and say a fond farewell to one of the region's most popular performers.
Shinny's Christmas Number 1 Celebration Show
With guests Cinnamon Dinner, Stephen Buckley and EYE JAY
Friday 22nd December 7:30pm
Manchester Academy 3 £8+booking fee
For tickets – click here
For more details of how to download the Christmas No 1 single and more see the Shinny Show Live Facebook page - click here
* For more details of Stephen Buckley's Wonderland see previous Salford Star article - click here
Words by Ian Leslie