Liverpool Sound City announce Mercury Prize winner Speech Debelle and stunning vocalist Paloma Faith as the first of their headline acts for this year’s festival, alongside musical legend Seymour Stein as the first of their keynote speakers.
 
Kicking off the festival in style, retro soul singer Paloma Faith headlines the prestigious Liverpool Philharmonic Hall on Wednesday 19th May. Faith released her debut album ‘Do You Want the Truth or Something Beautiful?’ at the end of 2009 to rave reviews following a summer of stunning shows. The multi talented, Hackney born, ex-burlesque dancer sets herself apart with unique theatrical performances that promise to take the festival by storm.
 

Speech Debelle will be headlining O2 Academy Liverpool on Friday 21st May.  Debelle has risen from hostel dwelling and bad deeds on a wave of critical acclaim to an articulate, honest and abrupt performer whose thoughts, beliefs, mistakes, love, anguish & humour are reflected in every performance through her stunning lyrics and smooth vocals.
 
In contrast to the live performances, the festivals first keynote speaker to be announced is musical royalty Seymour Stein. Stein was the founder of Sire Records and famous for signing artists such as Madonna, The Ramones, Blondie, Talking Heads and Liverpool’s own Echo and the Bunnymen.  A musical mastermind in his own right, Stein will be in conversation with a surprise celebrity guest whom he has worked with in the past.  
 
Showcasing the best in local and international talent, Liverpool Sound City have also confirmed local lads Wave Machines, who deliver art pop rhythms, soaring synths and infectious gigs. Hailed by NME as this year’s ‘ones to watch’, Wave Machines recently took Dubai Sound City by storm and promise to bring a vibrant taste of the Liverpool underground to the festival. And Liverpool hotspot Korova (set up by pioneers of electro-clash Ladytron) will host crafty electronica act Gold Panda on Friday 21st May, with guests Hook and the Twin from Bristol and dance act Grosvenor.

Wednesday 19th – Saturday 22nd May 2010 -  4 days… 35 venues… 400 artists… 1000 Delegates... 35,000 revellers.