Newport County is ready to rock after fusing football with music in a fashionable collaboration with renowned rockers Skindred.
The Newport-based band, who reached number two in the UK charts last year with their highly acclaimed eighth album ‘Smile’, will feature on the front of a bespoke designed kit for Newport’s League Two clash with Carlisle on Saturday, December 7.
The one-off shirt will pay homage to the city’s Caribbean community through its unique design created by Neal Heard, the club’s new Creative Director and founder of Lover’s F.C.
Skindred have risen to fame with their energetic fusion of reggae, punk and heavy metal that has exploded with high-octane live performances at major festivals (such as Download, Reading and Glastonbury) and sold-out venues across the globe that also feature the ‘Newport Helicopter’.
Fronted by Newport-based Benji Webbe, Skindred’s charismatic lead singer who still lives in Pill and holds the city close to his heart despite becoming a 30-year overnight sensation, the band will also sell the Exiles shirt across its own channels to help raise the club’s profile across the globe.
Benji, also the former frontman of Dub War, shared his excitement: "Football and music unite people, and we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our hometown roots than by supporting Newport County.
“The Exiles embody the resilience, passion and edginess that inspire our music, and we’re honoured to be part of their journey under the club’s new ownership.’’
Newport County chairman, Huw Jenkins, also welcomed the partnership, adding: "We’re delighted to team up with Skindred, a band that truly represents the spirit of Newport.
“This collaboration not only enhances our club’s profile, but also underscores the power of community and shared pride in the city. We look forward to working together to create memorable moments for our fans."
The Skindred shirt is now available to purchase at the club shop in Friars Walk, at the stadium on matchdays or online HERE.
The club would like to thank home shirt sponsors Pure Vans, 57 Tyres and Best Blinds for their support in allowing the Skindred takeover for the Carlisle game.
About Skindred
Formed in Newport in 1998, the band is made up of Benji Webbe, Mikey Demus, Dan Pugsley and Arya Goggin.
They have won several awards including Best Live Band’at the UK Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards, the Devotion Award at the Kerrang! Awards, Best Live Act at the Heavy Music Awards and Best Alternative Music Act at the MOBO Awards.
They celebrated the most successful period of their careers in the last 12 months, with their album Smile reaching number two in the charts, a sell-out show at Wembley Arena, memorable festival appearance and appearances on Later… with Jools Holland, BBC Breakfast, Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch and Never Mind the Buzzcocks.