The live music industry in the UK is facing a “spiralling crisis” according to singer-songwriter Sam Duckworth of Get Cape Wear Cape Fly. New figures from the Music Venue Trust reveal that artists are playing half as many gigs on tour as they did in the 1990s, with an average of 11 shows on the grassroots circuit compared to 22 in 1994.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy expressed concern at a music industry conference, stating that “too many parts of the country have become cultural deserts” after over a hundred music venues closed last year. Duckworth highlighted the economic challenges faced by artists, venues, and fans, with rising costs making it difficult to sustain extensive tours.
The Music Venue Trust reported a significant decrease in live music events, with a drop from 20 million to 15 million tickets expected to be sold this year. Chief executive Jon Collins emphasized the impact on communities and the limited number of venues included on touring circuits, leading to a concentration of shows in major cities.
Coldplay’s decision to donate 10% of proceeds from their upcoming Wembley and Hull shows to the Music Venue Trust stands out as a positive initiative. However, calls for government support, including a reduction in VAT on gig tickets and a levy on arena and stadium concerts, remain unanswered.
Despite challenges in reaching an agreement within the industry, efforts are being made to establish funds to support grassroots venues. Nandy assured that the government is prioritizing the issue of live music venue closures and is exploring initiatives to improve access to music education and instruments.
As the industry grapples with financial strains and venue closures, the future of live music in the UK hangs in the balance, with stakeholders advocating for collaborative solutions to sustain the vibrant music scene.
