Cumbrian artists back calls for a levy on stadium tickets to support grass roots venues
According to the Music Venue Trust, 2023 was the worst year for venue closures since the organisation was launched 10 years ago, with 125 venues shutting down in the UK.
The London Assembly Economy, Culture and Skills Committee has today published its report - London’s Night-Time Economy - supporting calls for the live music industry to introduce a voluntary levy on arena and stadium tickets to support grass roots venues in London.
The report follows an in-depth investigation by the Committee, which saw industry experts, professionals and local authorities provide evidence on London’s night-time economy, what work is currently being done, and any barriers preventing further growth in the sector.
Marina Ahmad AM, Chair of the Economy, Culture and Skills Committee, said: "Through our investigation, we heard directly from industry experts who highlighted a number of barriers which are preventing further growth in the sector.
"A key point raised was that grassroots music venues face incredibly challenging financial situations, due to the slim profit margins and increases in rent and business rates.
"We know that the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee support the introduction a voluntary levy on arena and stadium tickets to support GMVs, which is why we are calling on the Mayor to support this call, and help these vital venues continue to thrive in London.
"Our report highlights a number of key recommendations which we have shared with the Mayor’s Nightlife Taskforce, and we will push for our recommendations to help shape the work of the taskforce to help London reach its goal of being a leading 24 hour city."
But there's now calls for it to be rolled out further, with funds distributed nationwide, not just in London.
Cumbrian musician Isaac Dobson is the bass player for Vacant Weekend, he believes unless there's more financial support for venues, and in turn artists, there will be a talent drain and a drop in quality of arts produced in England.
He said: "Without GRVs, where on earth are you going to find new artists.
"There are people on social media, but you can't just write a few songs, post a few videos, then go up on a 1000 cap stage. You will have no gigging experience and it's much more difficult than it looks.
"It's difficult to be a GRV artist nowadays and make a living. It's impossible. You don't earn a penny off gigging. There are no fees available. Even if you play 500 cap venues, you usually don't get more than 50 to 100 pounds which won't even cover your travel if there's more than 2 of you in the band.
"You can't focus in on one project anymore, so it means there is less quality and opportunity to perfect the sound you are going for.
"A little levy on those bigger stadiums, you might really see a jump in quality and viability for people to really put a lot of effort into one project."