Apollo Junction, an indie-rock band from Leeds, has secured the biggest tour slot of their career, opening for iconic musician Richard Ashcroft. The band's frontman, Jamie Williamson, who works as a primary school teacher by day, has shared insights into his dual life as an educator and musician.
A Double Life: Teacher and Rock Star
Jamie Williamson, who teaches year six, described the challenge of balancing his two roles. “I teach year six by day, so I’ve been proper busy, but I wouldn’t change it,” he told the Mirror. Two of his bandmates, guitarist Matt Wilson and bassist Ben Hope, are also teachers, currently in the midst of the academic year. Despite the demands, the group is thrilled to be part of Ashcroft’s tour, a move they “never in a million years” expected.
A Lucky Break
The opportunity came after Ashcroft’s massive year supporting Oasis. “When we got the email saying, ‘I think I’ve got you the Ashcroft gigs,’ we thought it was just lucky that Ashcroft listened to us and liked us. It all sort of fell into place,” Jamie explained. The band, now a seven-piece, recently expanded with new members Jonny Thornton and Sam Potter.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Jamie sees his teaching and music careers as intertwined, aiming to inspire his students. “Teaching is all about inspiring young people and creativity,” he said. “I give my example of being in a band and tell them that just because we’re not millionaires touring the world, there are not many who have had the longevity and success we’ve had.” He often encounters past students who have pursued music themselves, which he finds rewarding.
Apollo Junction has built a loyal following over 13 years, playing festivals like the Isle of Wight and supporting acts like the Kaiser Chiefs and Shed Seven. “We always pick up new fans at things like this,” Jamie noted. “If I can say so myself, we’re a good live band.”
The band’s journey has been steady, and Jamie has no intention of stopping. “Bands shouldn’t just be bands; they should inspire,” he concluded. “Just as I was inspired by Noel Gallagher, now I’m, in a very small version, hopefully doing the same thing.”
