Voting has now closed

In the 70's, Punk rocked down the Kings Road while the late 80’s and early 90's raved to Madchester. England's second city however, has never been the focus of an era defining 'scene'. And that's exactly why you should vote Birmingham as The Most Musical City says ‘Superstar’ supporter Jamelia.

“Not convinced by Brum? Well, how about this? Nowhere in the country is there a more diverse musical melting pot which represents a city's people and their culture while reflecting the nature of its streets. While some cities represent a place in time, Birmingham has been happy to represent itself with a stream of artists of every age, race and genre from Ozzy Osbourne to Ocean Colour Scene and Duran Duran to Dexy's Midnight Runners and ELO.

As a city Birmingham is proud of its multi-racial population and nowhere else can boast a musical history covering the reggae of UB40 (one of Britain’s most successful acts ever) to the political rap of Asian Dub Foundation and artists such as Malkit Singh and Bally Sagoo who have helped make Brum synomynous with Bhangra.

Jazz and classical music also play a part in our musical mix. The city hosts the UK’s largest annual international jazz festival, as well as hosting the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and various prestigious international orchestras at one of the finest concert halls in the world - the Symphony Hall.

Birmingham's music scene is one big mash-up offering everything and anything for everyone. Yet, perhaps we do have our very own 'scene'. Aptly, it's the most unloved of all, but remains alive and kicking to this day - the heavy rock, big hair and leather of Metal...

1970's Britain was stricken by economic hardship and a collective post flower-power hangover. As people got angrier, music got darker - and with the release of the eponymous 'Black Sabbath' on Friday February 13th, 1970 - a whole lot louder. Not only did Birmingham give the world Ozzy Osbourne, but also Led Zeppelin, a band who would rival the Beatles for US album sales and Judas Priest, whose big haired metal also successfully crossed the Atlantic.

So, why vote for Birmingham? In Black Sabbath and Led Zep we have given birth to two of the unlikeliest biggest bands ever, Duran Duran led the 80’s 'Second American Invasion' and our artists are as diverse as our people. But, Birmingham remains 'uncool', so stand out from the crowd and vote for the underdog.”