If We Don’t Have Venues, We Don’t Have Opportunities for Artists

Manchester: January can be tough for gigs and bars. To help, a nationwide campaign is encouraging folks to think local and independent for their nights out.

During Independent Venue Week, six venues in the city will showcase some of the UK’s hottest upcoming artists. This event runs from January 27 to February 2.

Sadly, independent venues are facing serious challenges. The Music Venue Trust reported a record number of emergency cases in the past year.

Manchester has seen a lot of development, which can threaten these grassroots venues. The Music Venue Trust emphasizes that action is needed now to protect them.

Ewan Sim, who gained fame for an impromptu performance last year, is among the artists participating in this year’s events. Venues like The Rat & Pigeon, YES, and Night & Day Café will host special shows.

Promoter Dave Beech from Night & Day Café shared how vital these venues are. Many big bands started in places like his café. Without them, new artists struggle to get noticed by record labels.

Night & Day is hosting six gigs for Independent Venue Week, featuring acts like a Green Day tribute band. This week is a chance for bigger bands to return and celebrate their roots.

The Rat & Pigeon will also host several gigs for the week. It’s great to see artists playing smaller venues, as it highlights their importance.

Music promoter Scruff of the Neck is putting on two gigs this week, showcasing local talent. Founder Mark Lippmann stressed that without venues, new bands won’t have opportunities to grow.

Manchester’s rich musical heritage is at risk if grassroots venues aren’t protected. Independent Venue Week is a reminder of the amazing local spots we have.

Running small independent businesses in entertainment is getting tougher. But events like this help shine a light on these venues and the talent they support.

The Castle Hotel, a beloved pub in Manchester, will host two shows during the week. Indie-folk artist Skydaddy is one of the performers.

Skydaddy shared how independent venues foster a sense of community. They motivate musicians and feel like home.

You can find the full lineup of gigs for Independent Venue Week online.