From Busking to Blue Plaque: Brad Kella’s Liverpool Piano Triumph

Brad Kella is a self-taught pianist from Bootle, Liverpool, whose inspiring journey has now been honoured with a blue plaque at Liverpool ONE. More than ten years ago, in August 2014, Brad began playing piano at the shopping centre to support himself and his daughters. He did not have formal lessons but learned to play by practicing on his own. On a sunny Wednesday, Brad returned to the very spot where his musical adventure began. He unveiled the blue plaque, pulling off a white cover as a crowd gathered to watch and take photos. The plaque is a special sign that marks the place where Brad first performed in public. It reads that this is where Brad started his journey, which eventually led him to win the second series of Channel 4's talent show, The Piano, in 2024. Brad's story is remarkable because he was discovered after producers saw a video of him playing at Liverpool ONE. His talent and passion for music helped him win the show and later release his debut album, Phobe's Melody, which reached number one. The blue plaque also includes the names of his daughters, making it even more meaningful to him. Brad said that having the plaque means 'the absolute world' to him. He remembers how difficult his life was when he first started playing piano in public, but now he feels proud and happy every time he walks down that street. He hopes his story will inspire others who are going through tough times. Liverpool ONE installed the plaque as part of its annual Tickle the Ivories festival, which has been running since 2011. The festival celebrates local talent by placing pianos around the city centre for anyone to play for free. It gives people a chance to share their music with others and maybe even start their own musical journey, just like Brad did. The festival continues until mid-September, and many people are expected to join in and play the public pianos. Brendan Hattam, the centre director at Liverpool ONE, said that Brad's story shows how important it is to give local artists and new talent a platform to perform. He believes that public pianos can change lives by giving people the opportunity to express themselves and be discovered. Brad agrees and encourages anyone who loves music to try playing the public pianos. He says, 'Just go for it. You never know what'll come out of it. ' Brad's journey from busking at Liverpool ONE to winning a national TV show and releasing a hit album is a powerful example of how hard work and passion can lead to success. The blue plaque will remind everyone who visits Liverpool ONE of Brad's achievements and the importance of supporting local talent. If you have a story about Merseyside, the news team wants to hear from you. Brad Kella's story is a reminder that dreams can come true, and that music has the power to change lives. The Tickle the Ivories festival and the new blue plaque are both ways to celebrate the talent and creativity found in Liverpool.