BBC 6 Music's Huw Stephens and Steve Lamacq Celebrate Independent Venue Week with Nationwide Broadcasts

In a concerted effort to support the independent music scene, BBC 6 Music presenters Huw Stephens and Steve Lamacq are taking a noteworthy step by broadcasting from an array of grassroots venues for Independent Venue Week 2024. This initiative comes at a critical time for many venues facing financial difficulties.

Broadcasts from Heart of Independent Scenes

From January 29 to February 2, Stephens and Lamacq will bring their shows directly from venues that are cornerstones of local music communities. The tour will kick off at Belfast's Oh Yeah Music Centre, followed by gigs at Whistle Binkies in Edinburgh, The Fulford Arms in York, Polar Bear Music Club in Hull, and The Rockin' Chair in Wrexham.

Live Music and Grassroot Talents

Different artists, including Ash and Antony Szmierek, will perform live, with the events also featuring musicians from BBC Music Introducing. This lineup supports the vibrant talent nurtured by these essential venues.

The initiative not only highlights the growing challenges that independent venues face, such as rent hikes and rising operational costs, but also celebrates their irreplaceable role in fostering talent and building musical communities.

Support through Engagement and Awareness

As Independent Venue Week promotes celebration and support for these key cultural hubs, Lamacq hopes fans will be inspired to attend live shows and support local music. Likewise, Stephens expresses excitement to share the stage with fantastic live artists, reinforcing the significance of these venues at these trying times.

Amidst the somber backdrop of numerous venue closures in 2023, the Music Venue Trust points out the consequential loss of jobs, events, and performance opportunities for artists. They advocate for a levy on large event tickets to fund grassroots music venues, an initiative currently under consideration by the Scottish government.

broadcast, support, venues