As we probably all know, the live music industry is among the hardest hit by COVID-19, leaving countless musicians, stage crews, and venue employees effectively jobless as we deal with this global pandemic. As Congress continues to sort out their relief efforts, eight hundred independent venues across the country have banded together to form the National Independent Venue Association, whose goal is to support these concert halls’ staffs—and ensure the continued existence of indie stages.
“The cultural impact of our venues on our local communities is priceless,” NIVA pleads in an open letter to Congress, requesting relief. “We are the steadfast incubators and launch pads for the most popular talent in the world. Our stages give artists like Adele, U2, Keith Urban, Prince, Lizzo, the Eagles, Wu-Tang Clan, and Foo Fighters their start. The world could be without the next Lady Gaga, Kenny Chesney, Chance the Rapper, or Bruce Springsteen if we cease to exist. Independent venues and promoters are crucial components of the music industry’s ecosystem, without whom there will be dire ramifications for artists as fan spending plummets.”
The letter makes a strong case for the economical value of such venues as well, noting that “One Chicago impact report estimated that for every $1 spent on a ticket, a total of $12 in economic activity was generated.” You can read the full letter here, and browse NIVA’s official statement regarding the letter here.
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