As you're well aware by now, the North has some of this country's best artists and musicians, so much so, we are showcasing a new one to you every single month.
Meet Holly Rolfe, a Lichfield-born, Leeds-based artist who's music is cathartic, emotive with her stage presence helping create a pure-pop package.
Her singles have captivated audiences online with one song in particular, 'I'll Come Back To You', amassing over 250,000 streams.
She's also focused on uplifting fellow female musicians, something which she has made into a real initiative titled 'Women in Music Presents'.
And if you're wondering why all her outfits have varied in shades of blue when she's featured in videos on Audio North's Instagram account - she explains later on.
An interview with Holly Rolfe | Audio North's Artist of the Month: May
Meet Hilly Rolfe, Audio North's artist of the month for May / Credit: The Manc Group
How did you get into music?
I started busking at 14 after some encouragement from my Mum who was also a busker. Then I started performing at weddings and taking part in gigs.
Every family holiday we used to listen to CDs whenever we'd drive around and play Adele, Robbie Williams, specifically the live albums, Mika too.
Who were some of your musical influences growing up?
Some of my favourite musicians who's music I am inspired by are Mimi Webb and Cian Ducrot. Obviously Harry Styles and Sabrina Carpenter too.
Especially Sabrina and Mimi, I love their fun pop girl energy, I just want to channel that.
Do you want to tell us a little bit more about your recent EP?
On 24 April I released my EP Lost in the Dark (Live in Session), which is a collection of songs that I believe aren't based around streams, but instead it's a passion project.
It means so much to me and it sums up who I am as an artist, the music I want to create and my experience of being a student in Leeds.
You're also part of a group called Women in MusicPresents, please can you tell us more about this?
It's a group created during my final year of university that I made with some friends.
We wanted something that focused around the positives and challenges that being a female artist brings, while uplifting each other with no real headliners at each event, instead we all share the spotlight.
Holly alongside Women in MusicPresents line-up at The Attic in Leeds / Credit: The Manc Group
We've noticed that you like to wear a lot of blue, how come?
I've always been obsessed with blue and when I was starting to brand myself as an artist I thought this colour really compliments me.
And honestly royal blue, navy, baby blue, whatever the shade is I love it.
What are some of your career highlights so far?
My first band gig was at the Piece Hall in Halifax where I got the opportunity to support Cian Ducrot and that's where everything really kicked off.
From there I performed at The Cavern Club in Liverpool, where as well as performing, I also got the chance to admire some of pop music's greatest memorabilia.
I was able to do my debut headline at Headrow House and did another headline show at Hyde Park Book Club too.
Rolfe backstage ahead of her Piece Hall supporting slot and the singer pictured underneath The Domino Club neon sign / Credit: Supplied
What does being an artist in the North feel like for you?
Anything is possible. There's something about the North that is so welcoming and it has helped me become my true self as an artist, performing for northern crowds.
I feel so inspired by artists from here and everyone northern as they all have this determination which is so nice to see, watching people chase their dreams.
And finally now we've learnt more about you, who are some Northern artists you love and want to show off?
Lois. She's incredible and has announced a listening party for her new album later this month.
Also The Wranglers, a country group who I got the opportunity to support at their recent gig at Oporto in Leeds. They just make you want to get up and dance.
Thank you Holly for letting us learn a little bit more about your artistry, we're sure that you're on track to claiming your pop princess crown in years to come.
Featured Images - Artist supplied / The Manc Group
Leeds
Innovative Leeds music venue TESTBED announces launch party lineup
Ever-evolving Leeds music hotspot TESTBED is making its grand return to Leeds city centre with an impressive launch party lineup.
Recognised as a cultural venue for bringing people together via music, TESTBED has hosted a variety of club nights in its warehouse location since 2024.
Back in April, it was announced that the team behind this rave-centric club were transforming this space from it's 'Phase 1.3' to 'Phase 2.0'.
Now, TESTBED has released the full lineup for its upcoming launch party which will show off some of the venue's latest features like its 360-degree DJ booth, improved acoustics and 5,000 sq ft mezzanine and balcony area.
Annie Mac is headlining the TESTBED Leeds launch party joined by Horse Meat Disco / Credit: Press Shots (via supplied)
Previous performers include Liverpool dance music duo Camelphat, house music DJ Alisha, Netherlands-own Chris Stussy and more, so it will come as no surprise that this relaunch features an equally-stellar lineup.
Fronting the bill for the TESTBED Launch Party is none other than EDM connoisseur and influential figure Annie Mac, who's hosted a variety of radio shows across the BBC as well as curating a set or two herself.
Also in attendance is Horse Meat Disco, a group who put disco and queer culture at the forefront of each and every high-energy set.
Irish selector Shee is also showing off his music expertise and already having collaborations with the likes of A-trak and Karma Kid, expect to hear some tunes.
Shee and Junior Simba will be taking to the decks to wow the crowds over at TESTBED Leeds / Credit: Press Shots (via supplied)
Seasoned club DJ and presenter Marcia Carr, known for playing live sets with vinyl records, will also be soundtracking the night too, playing out everything from Afrohouse to dubstep.
Of course, it wouldn't be a Leeds-based party without some local talent courtesy of Junior Simba who's quickly become a key player in the house music scene.
And if that wasn't enough raving for you, TESTBED has already announced even more insane nights of music madness featuring ROSSI., Interplanetary Criminal and Obskür.
TESTBED's opening party is taking place on Saturday 3 October from 2pm til 12am and you can grab tickets from as little as £20 HERE.
Leeds Santa Dash is returning for 2026 and it’s set to be ‘bigger and better’ than ever
Emily Sergeant
Leeds' famous Santa Dash is returning for 2026, and it's set to be 'bigger and better' than ever.
Back by popular demand with the festive season around the corner, The Trinity Leeds Santa Dash has confirmed its return for 2026 this December, with thousands of Santas set to hit the streets of the city centre with festive fun, Christmas cheer, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
No matter whether you're taking part with your family, friends, colleagues, or little ones, organisers say it's the 'perfect way' to kick-start your festive season.
This iconic event welcomes everyone to take part - you can either jog, walk, or wheel your way around the 5K route, soaking up the sights and sounds of the city as you celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, and prams are also welcome too, making it a fantastic festive day out for all ages and abilities.
And this year, it's set to be bigger and better than ever, as there's an exciting new city centre route.
All Santa suits are provided (except for those under three) with your race entry, and you'll also get an exclusive Trinity Leeds Santa Dash finisher medal once you make it over the line, as well as a festive chocolate treat to nibble on.
So, gather your fellow Santas, embrace the Christmas magic, and get ready to join one of Leeds' most joyful festive traditions.
The Trinity Leeds Santa Dash returns for 2026 on Sunday 6 December, and you can find out more and enter to take part in the race online here.
Thomas Melia -
8th May 2026 
