Headline bands being attracted to Angus and the Mearns will provide a boost to the local economy.
The north-east has been put on the map as a premier live music destination with indie rockers Ash, ska legends Madness and Deacon Blue all set to play.
Ash will headline this year’s Montrose Music Festival, kick-starting the event that attracts around 100 bands to venues in the town.
MoFest will also bring Madness to Montrose as part of the festival’s offering, with a show at the East Links on July 5.
Cast have also been signed up by the committee to play Montrose in October while Deacon Blue will be the headline act at this year’s Hogmanay event in Stonehaven.
Elsewhere, Dougie Maclean, China Crisis and the Blow Monkeys will also be performing in Montrose Town Hall in gigs organised by North East Music and Sports Promotions.
North East MSP Alex Johnstone said “I am delighted that the north-east is attracting these headline bands.
“Live music is a fantastic experience, especially when such high quality names like Madness and China Crisis are performing.
“These events not only provide a great ‘feel-good factor’ they also give a very welcome boost to the local economy and attract visitors into the north east.
“This gives the opportunity to showcase everything the area has to offer, and hopefully encourage them to return for a longer stay.
“I would also like to acknowledge the fact that hard working and dedicated volunteers play a huge role in putting many of these events on, and I would commend them and everyone involved in putting the north east well and truly on the music map.”
MoFest secretary Anne Jenkins said: “We work closely with Angus Council economic development team in relation to the tourism benefits the festival brings to the area.
“All the accommodation in Montrose is usually booked up for the MoFest weekend and there doesn’t seem to be a bed left for when Madness are due to play on July 5, which can only be good for local businesses.”
Allan James, general manager of the Park Hotel, said: “Montrose Music Festival has been fantastic for businesses in the town and we are no exception.
“The atmosphere in the venues and in Montrose itself is great, and although rushed off our feet, we still get to listen to a lot of good, live music.
“Our bedrooms are full, the bars are busy all day and bar meals and dinners in the restaurant are non-stop.
“Although the venues pay the bands that play, the income the weekend brings in makes it very worthwhile being involved in.”