News

Is Live Music Under Threat?

• 24th Feb 2011

I read a piece on the BBC website this week which posed a chilling question: Is live music under threat in the UK?

The article reflected on the campaign to save London’s famous 100 Club and also named a number of venues that have sadly had to close: Leicester's The Charlotte, the Luminaire in London, and Jilly's Rockworld and the Music Box, both in Manchester.

But, I’m pleased to say, the article did go on to show that there are thriving live music scenes in many cities and towns around the country. And Glasgow is up there with the best of them!

I can attest to that, as readers of my reviews will know. There are many fine venues, small and large, across my city catering for differing musical tastes. I have four gigs this week, ranging from folk through indie to hardcore.

And on Tuesday night I saw a four band line up headed by Senses Fail at the ABC, while Tinie Tempah was playing a sell out show elsewhere in the same building. On the way to the gig I drove past a large queue waiting to see Maroon 5 at the Academy, while The Crave and Pete Lawrie headlined two other shows in the city.

So the situation seems to be good for bands who are on the professional touring circuit. They have a decent choice of venues of differing sizes to meet their needs. But music is an industry that can’t stand still. We need young talent to be coming through on a regular basis.

Several of the venues I regularly attend have policies of giving newer, local acts the opportunity to have a support slot on their bills. The bands gain both experience and exposure and I’ve discovered some very good music because of this.

Do other cities have a similar story to tell? I’m sure they do, so why not let me know?