In case you missed it, this past weekend the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) hosted a massive live stream event, featuring an impressive list of performers taking to stages across the country in order to #SaveOurStages—that is, to encourage our representatives to pass legislation to bail out independent venues that will otherwise cease to exist under the current conditions of the COVID pandemic.
The three-day fest included memorable performances from dozens of artists—many of whom wouldn’t be where they are today if it weren’t for the indie stages they accumulated a following performing upon—letting loose at their favorite venues after several months performing in front of a tiny computer screen. Marking seven months of a tour-less existence, these sets were more than a little cathartic.
While you may have caught the clip of Miley belting out The Cranberries’ “Zombie” that’s been making the rounds, we compiled a video playlist of our favorite sets below—which includes that one, as well as nine more that range from Brittany Howard to Major Lazer to Rise Against. Stream these clips, and consider donating to NIVA’s Emergency Relief Fund and/or reaching out to your local legislator to let them know how much live music means to you. Alternatively, all proceeds from our latest print issue go directly to NIVA—order yours here.
