In addition to the challenges faced by the entertainment industry and non-profit theatres, small and mid-sized live music venues in Australia are also struggling to survive. Rising operational costs, rent, and declining ticket sales and bar takings have put these venues in a precarious financial situation. The closure of venues like Adelaide's Enigma Bar highlights the troubling fate of these establishments [22c1fa53].
The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the situation, with Melbourne and Victoria experiencing a 24% reduction in venues. Venue operators are calling for government support, such as tax cuts and licensing fee reductions, to help them weather the storm. While the Live Music Australia grants have provided funding to music festivals, smaller venues are seeking equal support to sustain their operations [22c1fa53].
The closure of live music venues not only affects the music industry but also has broader implications for community culture, mental health, and the gathering places for young people. These venues play a vital role in nurturing emerging local bands and providing them with opportunities to grow and gain recognition. The struggles faced by live music venues in South Australia have prompted venue operators to collaborate and find solutions to ensure the survival and growth of the industry [22c1fa53].
The live music scene in Perth is also grappling with similar challenges. Venues in the city have experienced a decline in attendance, further highlighting the need for government assistance to sustain the industry [22c1fa53].
Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the challenges facing the pub industry are also being brought to light. Merlin Griffiths, a publican and First Dates bartender, speaks out on behalf of thousands of publicans and their communities about the challenges facing the pub industry. He highlights the financial burdens, such as the 20% VAT on meals and the outdated business rates system, as well as the rising costs of living that deter customers from visiting pubs. Griffiths emphasizes the need for a more level playing field and calls for support from politicians and legislators, including a reduction in VAT, lower beer duty, and permanent reform of business rates. He urges a unified effort to save pubs and secure their future as communal spaces [65b8f94c].
In Dublin, nightclub owners are facing a 'perfect storm' of safety fears, lack of taxis, and a cost-of-living crisis. The campaign group Give Us the Night is advocating for reform of licensing laws and the night-time economy. The group claims that Irish nightlife remains outdated, with no extended opening hours, new permits, or licensing reforms. Ian Redmond, a shareholder of Hyde cocktail bar, highlights the need for licensing reform and the challenges faced by the night-time industry in Dublin. He also mentions concerns about public order, lack of taxis, and the cost of living. Give Us the Night is hosting events to discuss these challenges and advocate for reform. The group hopes to reshape the night-time economy through these events and engage with venue owners, cultural programmers, promoters, performers, managers, workers, advocates, and nightlife goers. The events are free and open to the public [fe424537].
London's hospitality sector saw a boom in 2023, with revenue reaching £46bn, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Large music venues hosted millions of people at live music events, including Beyoncé's five-night show at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and The Weeknd's concert at the London Stadium. However, small independent music venues in London are struggling, with 120 grassroots venues closing down in 2023 due to a decline in footfall. Rising costs and recruitment challenges continue to pose difficulties for the hospitality sector. MP Damian Green suggests that large music venues should financially support smaller ones. Local Democracy Reporter Noah Vickers and Arts Correspondent Robert Dex provide insights into the reasons behind the struggles of small music venues and potential solutions to secure their future [00ebf0b1].
The absence of five festivals in Australia in 2024 resulted in a $186 million loss for regional economies. The Mona Foma and Dark Mofo festivals brought $46 million and $20 million respectively to Tasmania's economy. Byron Shire estimated a loss of 'tens of millions' due to the hiatus of the Splendour festival. The Groovin' The Moo festival, expected to draw 140,000 attendees, would have injected about $20 million into the economy [ba439ac5].
The article 'It’s not the cost of living that’s killing music festivals' highlights the cancellation of the Splendour in the Grass music festival in Australia. The author argues that the primary reason for lackluster ticket sales is not the cost of living, but rather a waning interest and line-ups that have failed to resonate with the musical and cultural zeitgeist. The article emphasizes the success of British DJ Fred Again, who sold out a highly anticipated Perth show in a matter of hours by prioritizing connection, community, and creativity in his brand strategy. The author suggests that brands must consider cultivating connection, community, and creativity, especially when marketing to Gen Z, and should learn from Fred's brand strategy of authenticity, consistency, and accessibility across multiple channels [00b9df75].
Sydney duo Royel Otis and Newcastle band Vacations are among the 25 artists selected for Fender's Next Class. A call is made for minimum wages and regular superannuation for Australian musicians [ba439ac5].
Spotify is set to raise prices in Australia by $2 to $3, following price increases in other territories [ba439ac5].
Australian acts will face higher costs to tour the US due to increased immigration and visa entry fees. Australia ranks as the 10th largest music market globally [ba439ac5].
Gold Coast record store Rare Groove Nobby Beach closed after 30 years due to construction [ba439ac5].
The first pill-testing service at a Queensland music festival uncovered dangerous drugs being sold as other substances [ba439ac5].
ABC Sydney radio presenter James Valentine is on a break to prepare for surgery for oesophageal cancer [ba439ac5].
Damien Luscombe, an accountant, was jailed for swindling $2.1 million from acts and venues [ba439ac5].
Western Sydney rapper Hooligan Hefs was charged for his involvement in a brawl [ba439ac5].
Michael McMartin, artist manager for the Hoodoo Gurus, passed away after 40+ years in the industry [ba439ac5].
PRS S2 Guitars updated their series with USA-made pickups and electronics [ba439ac5].
Upgrade your late nights and swing into one of Canberra’s best live jazz spots. Located in some of our city’s cosiest bars, liveliest pubs and coolest cafes, sit back with your favourite drink and listen as some of the country’s best musicians and bands play your favourite smooth tunes. Step through Odgers Lane’s unmarked wooden door and uncover the intimate and elegant 1920s speakeasy. Charming jazz bands perform live every Tuesday and Wednesday. Hippo Co, a cocktail and whisky bar, has had the sounds of some of the best live jazz bands from around the world for the past 20 years. Smith’s Alternative is one of Canberra’s ultimate live music venues, hosting live shows or open jams every single night. Gang Gang Café is a café, bar, and live music venue all wrapped in one. The Old Canberra Inn hosts live jazz every Wednesday night. If you're looking to watch the State of Origin game in Canberra, there are several venues where you can catch the action. Hopscotch will be showing the game on the big screen in the beer garden from 8pm. The Pedlar offers $6 Capital Brewing Coast Ale scooners and $25 parmis with a house beverage from 5pm. Bleachers Sports Bar is showing the game live on the big screen with a $15 ticket that includes a free schooner of VB. Wakefield's Bar & Wine allows you to book the private room for 10-20 guests and enjoy the game on your own screen, along with footy food and drinks. Grease Monkey is offering a free house drink for the first blues point. The Alby is another option to cheer on your team before kick-off. These venues provide a great atmosphere to enjoy the State of Origin game with fellow sports fans. Check out the article for more information and the best pubs in Canberra to watch the State of Origin [0c9c7349].