Gibson, the legendary instrument maker that has influenced music across generations and genres, has added Manchester’s rising rock band Corella to its 2026 Gibson Artist Spotlight Program. The initiative celebrates emerging artists and connects them with Gibson’s global audience through online channels, in-store events, media coverage, and curated playlists.

Corella, a four-piece ensemble formed by Joel Smith (vocals), Ben Henderson (bass), Jack Taylor (guitar), and James Fawcett (drums), has quickly established itself as one of the UK’s most exciting new rock acts. The band first gained attention during lockdown with energetic livestreams and early support from BBC Radio 1. Their debut album highlighted their melodic strengths, while their upcoming sophomore release explores darker, more dynamic, and emotionally intense territory. Produced by GRAMMY® Award winner Jason Perry, the new record captures Corella at their most authentic, leaner, louder, and more purposeful.

Known for their explosive live shows, Corella has developed a devoted fanbase and sold out multiple UK headline tours. Festival appearances include Reading & Leeds, Kendal Calling, Truck, Latitude, and Neighbourhood Festival, where the band’s stage presence has consistently drawn acclaim. Influenced by acts like Bloc Party and Foals, Corella channels their live energy into music that tackles themes of loss, resilience, and navigating a chaotic world.

Their latest single, “Rewire,” has already energized festival audiences across Europe. Looking ahead, the band is preparing to release their sophomore album via FLG in 2026, alongside a busy touring schedule that includes recent support for Kaiser Chiefs and forthcoming headline shows.

“Being part of the Gibson family is surreal for us,” said Ben Henderson, Corella bassist and backing vocalist. “It’s one of the greatest guitar legacies in history, and to be trusted with the best of the best is something we don’t take lightly. Gibson’s guitars and engineering are a huge part of our sound and our identity, and we’re genuinely proud to represent that.”

The 2026 Gibson Artist Spotlight lineup also features acts from around the world, including De Nachtwacht (The Netherlands), Night Traveler (Austin, TX), Charlotte Sands (Los Angeles, CA), verygently (Nashville, TN), Black Polish (Los Angeles, CA), JoOji (Tottori, Japan), Ponpon (Los Angeles, CA), Paula Pera (Bogotá, Colombia), Nieve Ella (United Kingdom), Bandalos Chinos (Buenos Aires, Argentina), and Last Train (Altkirch, Alsace, France).

The program highlights exceptional innovation and artistry, helping emerging artists expand their reach through Gibson’s platforms and music media outlets. Fans can discover new music from Corella and other Spotlight artists via Gibson’s monthly Spotify playlist and ongoing updates throughout the year.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.