Established artists are being encouraged to support grassroots music venues via a new initiative called 'Passport: Back To Our Roots'. On a day to be confirmed - depending on the lifting of COVID restrictions - a number of bigger name acts will play shows in grassroots venues in a bid to help support said venues as they continue to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic.
The initiative has been created by Sally Cook from Manchester venue Band On The Wall and music manager Stephen Budd, who has previously led a number of other event programmes under the 'Passport' banner in aid of War Child. The aim is to match each participating artist with a venue that played an important role in their career. Tickets for the shows will be distributed via a prize draw which people can enter by making a minimum donation of £5.
Of the money raised, 80% will go to the host venues and the Music Venue Trust's Crisis Fund, while 20% will go to Inner City Music, the not-for-profit organisation that operates Band On The Wall, and which will run the 'Passport: Back To Our Roots' programme.
Announcing the initiative, Cook said: "It's incredibly exciting to see artists supporting the grassroots venues that form the foundation of the UK's live music industry, acknowledging their importance and celebrating the unrivalled experience of watching your favourite bands up close and personal, surrounded by friends and united in appreciation for live music in all its loud and sweaty glory".
Budd adds: "There is nothing like seeing your favourite artist in a venue that is close to their heart. These shows will be awe-inspiring for those fans who are lucky enough to win the prize draw and also a joy for the artists who participate knowing they are helping keep live grassroots venues alive".
For more information on how to get involved check www.passportbacktoourroots.org