Music has propelled Blaine Harrison into an exciting world of imagination and possibilities since he was a child. He first experienced the power of music in eliciting different kinds of emotions as a young boy. While he was encouraged by his teachers to participate in various types of physical activities, Blaine, who has spina bifida, knew that being an athlete was not for him. Instead, he continued to transport himself into this imaginative world of music during his school days, “disappearing down to the music school all afternoon.”
Forming a band with his high school friends, Blaine is now the lead vocalist of the indie rock band Mystery Jets. Upon completing high school, they booked their first country-wide tour. Despite empty rooms and having no proper place to sleep or eat, it was a carefree and liberating life, and every experience they had during this period was succinctly described by Blaine as “glorious.” They then signed their first contract with Transgressive records and released their debut in February 2005, and their music career has continued to flourish since.
Looking at the inclusion of people with disabilities in music
Blaine acknowledges how much society’s attitudes towards disabilities have transformed over the years, particularly in the music scene.
“Government cuts aside, I feel like disabled British citizens are actually better supported than ever in this society. People’s attitudes have shifted tremendously over the last twenty years and there are fantastic opportunities out there.”
Accessibility in music for people with disabilities has definitely been gaining increasing exposure. An ‘access’ movement in the music industry has been picking up momentum, and charities like Attitude is Everything (AIE), which Blaine actively works with, are also offering support to make music more accessible for performers and audiences alike.
Despite the progresses made in the music industry, Blaine does recognise that there are not many role models for people who are just starting out. “It is time for the Paralympians of the creative world to come forth and inspire us all,” he says.
This is why Blaine believes in the importance of the local music scene, because “change begins at home.” He wishes to see more independent venues in the UK providing more accessible features for everyone to enjoy music. He also encourages those with the power of influence to be more active in proposing for such change. With such a dynamic music scene in the UK, and the advent of social media, it is definitely easier to make your voice heard.
Blaine also recognises that there are many people with disabilities who are passionate about making music, but have yet to receive the support they need to get started on doing so. In that case, he recommends the local music scene once again.
““If you’re a musician, book a show at a venue you like or, if you’re more interested in working behind the scenes, why not book a friend’s band. Speak to the manager about what facilities they have. Is the entrance step free? Can someone in a wheelchair access the bar? Is the stage more visible from a certain part off the room?”
There are many ways to get started, and it is all about finding the right people to help you achieve your dreams. Fans of music can also get in with the action, too. There are organisations that enable you to be a mystery shopper in exchange for assessing the quality of a venue.
As for Blaine himself, he and his band are doing their part in sourcing for potential artists they believe in, and who can spark a change in the music industry. He is forever grateful to what music has allowed him to see and experience, and hopes that everyone can have equal opportunities of experiencing this joy as well.
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