NORTHWICH music legend and Charlatans' frontman Tim Burgess is backing a new law to secure a better deal for musicians in the digital age.

Streaming is quickly replacing radio as our main means of music listening.

But legislation has failed to keep pace with technological change. As a result, performers and songwriters are not paid fairly when their music is streamed.

Singer-song writer Tim Burgess recently backed Cardiff West Labour MP Kevin Brennan whose Copyright (Rights and Remuneration of Musicians) Private Member’s Bill aimed to right that wrong.

Salford-born Tim, who grew up in Moulton near Northwich, said on Twitter: "Total love for the work that Kevin Brennan MP has been doing on behalf of musicians, bands and artists.

"It’s great to know there’s support in Parliament."

Unfortunately, the bill looks unlikely to progress beyond its second reading without Government support but the MP won’t be giving up the fight.

And Tim has now invited Mr Brennan, also a musician, to showcase his debut album The Clown & The Cigarette Girl by guesting on his Twitter ‘Listening Party’ at 8pm on Wednesday, December 15, with its 79,500 followers.

Northwich MP Mike Amesbury, who was among cross-party MPs to support the proposed law, told fellow MPs during the Commons debate: "Surely the greatest distortion in the market is the fact that artists aren’t getting paid a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.

"One such person is Tim Burgess, who I know has been very supportive of the Honourable Member for Cardiff West.

"I think you’re (Kevin Brennan) on his Listening Party on December 15, so tune in!"

The Charlatans are currently in the middle of their Covid-delayed 30-year anniversary UK tour.