Today, February 20, marks what would have been Salford born icon Tony Wilson’s 74th birthday.
Wilson was born in Pendleton, Salford in 1950.
He attended the De La Salle Grammar School in Pendleton where he discovered his love for writing. This love for writing then allowed him to pursue his career as a journalist later on in life and he become the cultural icon we know today.
His career really started as a reporter for Granada Reports, where he presented the show ‘So It Goes’ which highlighted music, culture and events in the local/ Greater Manchester area.
Throughout the 70s and 80s Wilson became one of the main news anchors on Granada Reports working along side the likes of Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan. His role on the television however never stopped him from pursuing his passions for music.
Arguably, Wilson is most famous for being the creator of the legendary Hacienda nightclub, as well as being the owner of Factory Records– the label responsible for many Salford born bands such as the iconic Joy Division and The Happy Mondays.
These bands have since become a staple in Manchester and Greater Manchester culture, shaping generations to come, and has since dubbed Wilson as ‘Mr Manchester‘.
Rowetta, from The Happy Mondays, who had worked with Wilson in the past, took to social media today to remember him.
She posted on instagram:
Many people took to comment with one Instagram user stating: “Mr Madchester Tony is a legend forever”
It is clear to see why Wilson is dubbed as a legend forever, after everything he managed to achieve, not only in his own career but managing to put Salford and Manchester on the map forever.
Sadly, Wilson passed away nearly 17 years ago after a sudden heart attack whilst battling with cancer.
Even nearly 17 years after his death, I have learned about the impact of Wilson’s work and just how much this has meant to not only Manchester, but the world. As well as inspiring young journalists, ‘Tony‘ is the reason many young local bands strive for success.
Here’s what some Salford residents had to say about him:
@salfordnownews Remembering Salford born Anthony ‘Tony’ Wilson on his 74th birthday! #tonywilson #salford #joydivision #hacienda #manchester
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