A SINGER from Brighton is set to headline a music festival.

Sam Tompkins is to headline A Stone's Throw Festival in Tynemouth and North Shields in May.

The Brighton-born busker shot to fame last year after Justin Bieber gave him a shoutout for his music.

In a statement released on social media, Sam said: “I can’t believe I’m actually saying this, but I’m headlining my first ever festival.

“This is so mad to me. I can’t wait to perform at A Stones throw’ festival in Newcastle. So exciting.”

The festival, described as the North East's coastal music trail, will see 50 music acts perform at 12 venues on May 28.  

Sam began his career by busking on the streets of Brighton – primarily Bond Street and Ship Street.

In August, Justin Bieber - one of the highest-selling artists of all-time - gave a shout-out to Sam on his Instagram page.

He encouraged his 188 million followers to listen to Sam's single (W)hole.

In a previous interview with The Argus, Sam praised his hometown for giving him a platform to share his work.

“I owe a lot to Brighton and the people that inhabit it for lifting me up so early in my career and consistently since,” he said.

“I’m just super grateful I am getting to live my dream like this.”

Sam’s song (W)hole was released in August. The track explores Sam’s feelings about the current state of the world.

“At times it does feel hopeless and when you look around there is so much dividing us with one another, but the only way to get things on track is to work together,” he said.

Salt Market Social will be the headline venue while others taking part will include The Exchange, The Engine Room, Three Tanners Bank, Flash House Brewery, Karma Coast, Tynemouth CIU, Barca Art Bar and The Watchhouse Museum.

Other acts performing including Lauran Hibberd, Berwyn, Wych Elm, Rudie Edwards and Tamzene.

Tickets for the festival go on sale on Friday.