Last year, the MVT marked its 10-year anniversary. And with that milestone must come the recognition of the hard work done by the trust to raise awareness of both the imminent threat to the UK’s grassroots music venues, and the vital role they play in the country’s cultural scene. Let us also not forget the vows made by the likes of music mainstays Coldplay, Katy Perry and Sam Fender to donate a proportion of their tour revenues to support the sector, which wouldn’t have happened without MVT’s hard work. More than forming this coalition of opinion between politicians, artists, industry heads and the public however, the trust has also provided vital emergency relief to over 200 venues this last year alone, offering financial and legal support, for grassroots music venues across the UK. Long may it continue. 

Empty promises means empty dance floors

However, much like the “clap for the NHS” action from a COVID-era best forgotten, there comes a time when recognition isn’t really enough. As Davyd reiterates: “Venues, despite all the very welcome good intentions and acknowledgements they are receiving for their vital work, are still closing, still under extreme and totally unnecessary financial pressures, still failing to be recognised, as everyone agrees they should and must be, when government designs policy, taxation, and legislation.” Backing this up, the report finds that nearly one in four of the venues belonging to the MVT are facing permanent closure, a 19% increase from last year.

Who’s missing out?

Since 1994, the average number of tour dates have been slashed, going from 22 to just a measly 11 in 2024. But it's not just that these shows are no longer happening, but where they’re no longer happening. Back in the 90s, touring would generally be spread over a range of 28 locations across the country. In 2024, only 12 locations remain as primary and secondary touring circuit stops. This means, that for those living in areas like Leicester, Edinburgh and Bath, all places which have been cut off from this primary or secondary route, seeing live music has become exponentially difficult, reserved only for those with the means to travel. The knock-on effects of this, for the development of grassroots musicians, the diversity of the scene, and the well-being of punters who are missing out, go beyond what can be measured by stats and reports. 

To add insult

Another galling find in the report, is that the connected Music Venue Alliance members staged over 1.5m individual artist performances in 2024. These events alone made the UK economy £562m. However, the venues themselves operated on a shockingly low 0.48% profit margin, meaning unsurprisingly, 43.8% of them reported a loss over the last 12 months and effectively ended up subsidising live music by £162 million. Make it make sense. 

So, despite the hard-work that the MVT has undertaken over the last decade, there’s a worry that it will come to naught if those in charge don’t force through meaningful legislation and provide venues with the practical tool-kits they need to stay afloat. So, as we move forwards into 2025, we need to keep the pressure on, if only to ensure we can party like it's 1994 once more.

Watch this space for more details on Save Our Scene’s upcoming work with the MVT to financially support grassroots venues, artists and promoters across the country through our partnership, Liveline.