Nine years ago, Jason Williamson was working as a benefits adviser. He’d seen the effects of changes brought in by the coalition government, and had tried to help people how he could. But in 2014, aged 43, the success of his band allowed him to quit.
He’s half of Sleaford Mods, along with bearded beatmaker Andrew Fearn. His lyrics, delivered with East Midlands venom, take aim at the grim state of the country, the failings of politicians, class, benefits, and beyond. It’s music chronicling the state we’re in, and it’s not always pretty.
Fast-forward to July 2023. With three top 10 albums under their belt and a reputation as outspoken, debauched stalwarts of the music landscape, Williamson and Fearn are at a sold-out Wembley Stadium in London, about to support Blur on a landmark day.
And they’ve invited The Big Issue along for the day to witness it all.
