From Lithuania to Newcastle: RYE’s Musical Journey
Ahead of the start of Mercury Fringe which starts this week, we met with RYE, a soulful singer-songwriter whose journey from Lithuania to Newcastle has shaped her unique sound and spirit.
In this candid conversation, RYE opens up about finding creative belonging in the North East, her deep ties with Generator, and the warmth of a music scene where artists truly support each other. Dive in to discover what makes RYE—and Newcastle’s creative community—so special.
Let’s start at the beginning—can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m originally from Lithuania, but Newcastle has been my home for almost a decade now. As an artist and songwriter, I perform under the name Rye, pouring my stories into every note as a solo musician.
What first drew you to the North East—and in particular, Newcastle’s vibrant music scene?
It all began with jazz. I had my heart set on studying it, and when I discovered a jazz and popular music degree at the Glasshouse (which was called The Sage back then), it felt like fate. I loved the programme, moved here for it—and, honestly, I just fell for the place. Newcastle’s charm drew me in and I never looked back.
As you've come to Newcastle, as you've heard, what has really impressed you as you've seen the music scene evolve?
What’s really struck me about the North East is the way artists lift each other up. There’s a genuine sense of support—not just from fellow musicians, but from organisations like Generator, who shine a spotlight on local talent that sometimes gets overlooked in the bigger national picture. Coming from Lithuania, where people are lovely but sometimes a little reserved, the warmth I’ve found here feels special. We cheer each other on, go to each other’s gigs, and actually listen to each other’s music. It’s a community in the truest sense.
If you love someone’s music here, you tell them. Sometimes, that’s exactly what an artist needs to hear. This kind of encouragement helps the arts—and the artists—flourish. As I’ve said, Generator plays a huge part in this, supporting both musicians and songwriters. From the inside, Newcastle’s scene feels incredibly diverse for a city its size, but it’s the warmth at its heart that truly sets it apart.
Artists and audiences alike are supportive, and there’s a real fire here—a vibrant diversity that’s genuinely impressive for a city of this size.
How have you found being able to make your own imprint as an artist?
That’s a tricky one! For a long time, I was mostly a recording artist, collaborating with producers, recording tracks, and then moving on. But when I began working as a solo artist—writing my own songs and performing more, especially in Newcastle’s local venues—something shifted. I started to find my own imprint, not just as a musician, but as a part of this community.
What’s amazed me most is how deeply I’ve connected with real people and places here. My songs can be quite melancholic—often inspired by personal challenges—but sharing them with audiences has opened up new connections, both for me and for listeners.
There’s a vulnerability in taking something you’ve written alone in your room and sharing it on stage. But I’ve discovered that being open invites others to connect—so many people are experiencing the same emotions. When someone sees their own story in my song, it’s a powerful moment of connection. I believe music can combat isolation, even if in small ways, and being able to bring that sense of belonging to others is truly special to me.
Having done your degree at the Glasshouse, how does it feel knowing that the Glasshouse is going to be part of the place where your life first began for this region? It's now also going to be part of the Fringe itinerary- how does that feel?
It’s honestly wonderful to see venues coming together for the Mercury Prize Fringe. It creates so many opportunities for artists—especially those still emerging—to share their music and reach new audiences. The diversity of the showcases means you might connect with people who wouldn’t have discovered you otherwise, and that’s exciting for everyone involved.
There was excitement the first time round that Mercury's came here, but now it's the second time round in the subsequent year. What was your, once you heard, okay, we're coming back to Newcastle, what went through your mind?
When I heard the Mercury’s were coming back to Newcastle, I was genuinely thrilled. It’s proof that we have something special here—a real reason for the wider world to focus on the incredible artists in our region. That recognition feels amazing.
On a personal level, being invited to perform at the Fringe for the second year running made me feel truly accepted. I may have come here as an outsider, but Newcastle has become my home—and being embraced by this community is just incredible. I’m also deeply grateful to Generator for all their work in bringing events like this to the city, and for championing the North East and its artists. Here’s to going even bigger!
Opportunities like these mean so much. With so much creative energy in Newcastle, the Mercury Prize Fringe gives artists a chance to showcase their work—and being associated with the event is a huge vote of confidence. It can open doors, build trust with promoters, and help artists take the next step in their careers.
Let's talk briefly about your relationship with Generator then. What has been the most rewarding and wholesome thing about working closely with Generator?
When I first arrived to study here, I didn’t know anyone except my course mates. I’d always written music alone, in my own room, never really sharing it or collaborating with others. Honestly, that made me a little nervous—songwriting was my personal way to process emotions. The first real boost of confidence I got to share and connect with others came from a Generator programme.
About nine or ten years ago, Generator ran a programme called 'We Create' for female songwriters in the North East. Every week, we’d gather to make music together, and I met so many incredible musicians through those sessions.
It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me the confidence to truly find my own voice—both as a solo performer and as a collaborator. That experience was absolutely invaluable.
Looking back, I’m not sure I’d be where I am today without that early support. From the very beginning of my songwriting journey in the North East, Generator has been there, giving me that first nudge and helping me feel part of the scene. I think that only helped me further in the future.
For the next generation of artists coming to the region, what advice would you give them to help them make that first push?
My advice? Don’t be afraid to chat with artists who’ve been around a bit longer, or those you see at gigs and open mics. This is a friendly, welcoming scene—everyone wants to see each other succeed.
Most artists want to help newcomers—after all, the more great music we have here, the better for everyone. And don’t hesitate to reach out to Generator directly. They’re genuinely helpful and always happy to talk about opportunities or offer support if you’re finding something challenging.
Sometimes we all need a push, right? I think there are amazing people who work there who can absolutely help with that. And you will get a response. So I think, yeah, just don't, don't be shy.
As the saying goes, 'Shy bairns get nowt.' Don’t be shy—put yourself out there and go for it! Reach out and don’t be afraid. The North East’s reputation for warmth and friendliness is well-deserved—trust me, that’s exactly what I’ve found here. So, don’t be shy—there’s plenty of help available if you just ask.
10 years later, what does a day in your life look like now?
My days? Honestly—they’re a bit chaotic! I’ve always thrived in that creative chaos.
I have a bit more direction now, but no two days are ever the same. One day I might be at the studio practising my set, the next, tucked away in my little home studio, working on new material. Sometimes I’m collaborating with a producer, sometimes performing a gig—which is always the highlight.
It’s a real mixed bag, but I love it. Like many musicians, I have a portfolio career—sometimes teaching, sometimes helping other artists, and always learning something new. There’s always something to practice—a bit of guitar here, some synths there, or time spent writing lyrics.
It’s creative chaos—but it suits me perfectly. Honestly, it’s where I thrive; without a bit of chaos, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself!
With the Fringe program coming over the next week or so, what are you personally looking forward to?
There are so many things I wish I could see—if only I could be everywhere at once!
I’m especially excited about my own performance at the Globe on the 16th of October—performing is always a thrill. I had my heart set on 'An Evening with Knats,' but it sold out! But I’ll be heading to Jimmy Turrell’s collage session. It’s such a treat to sit with an established artist and see their passion and expertise up close.
Getting a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process is invaluable. I’m also looking forward to the masterclass with Sam Grant from Pigs (x7)—he’s a brilliant producer. He's a brilliant producer. I'd love to go to that and kind of look into it, pick his brain a little bit and see how, you know, how he's kind of, yeah, his process.
It’s not just about the events—it’s about connecting with people you wouldn’t normally meet, and maybe gaining a fresh perspective along the way. Sometimes, it’s easy to fall into your own routines. Seeing how others create can spark new ideas and help you grow as an artist.
We can all learn from each other. For example, Jimmy’s workshop isn’t just about music—it’s about the whole aesthetic, the bigger picture. That’s going to be a lot of fun. I’m always amazed by artists who can communicate so much through colour and visuals.
I’ve always been more focused on sound, so exploring the visual side is a welcome challenge for me. It pushes me to think about how I express myself beyond music, even if I don’t always know what colours or visuals fit my work. That exploration is exciting.
I’d also love to see Sarah Johnson—she’s brilliant and playing at the Cumberland. Sadly, I’m performing the same night, so I’ll have to catch her another time. There’s just so much brilliant stuff happening across the city.
So when you think about the next chapter for you as an artist, what's putting that fire in your belly?
Looking ahead, what excites me most is the spirit of exploration. In the past, I often held onto ideas of how things should sound or look, or what I thought I should be doing. But so often, the result surprises me—it’s rarely what I first imagined!
Now, I’ve learned to embrace the unknown and enjoy the creative process itself. That mindset inspires me to keep pushing boundaries, even as an alternative artist with a sound that’s a bit electronic, a bit pop, and sometimes a little obscure. Rather than defining myself by those boundaries, I want to stay open to wherever the music takes me.
When I allow myself to truly explore, that’s when the most raw, real things come out. That’s what excites me about the next chapter. Whether I’m in the studio or sharing new work, that sense of creative possibility keeps me inspired.
It’s been a genuine pleasure chatting with you, Rye. Wishing you all the best for your gig on the 16th—and for every creative adventure to come!
RYE’s journey is just one part of what makes Newcastle’s music scene so alive, welcoming, and exciting. The Mercury Fringe brings together artists, venues, and audiences in a celebration of creativity and community you have to experience for yourself.
Dive into the full programme, discover new favourites, and feel the warmth of Newcastle’s music family—there’s something special waiting for everyone.
For more information about the full programme visit generator.org.uk/mercuryprizefringe
Article By Thushara Chandrasiri
