Tom Jones is among the stars set to perform at small independent venues to help revive the UK’s live music industry.
The National Lottery has joined forces with the Music Venue Trust (MVT) for the initiative, pledging a donation of £1 million to directly underwrite touring and production costs of over 300 live shows this summer.
The move will allow the grassroots live music industry to start promoting shows with upfront costs of touring already sorted.
Sex Bomb star Tom leads an all-star line-up for the small-scale performances, which also include appearances from James Arthur, Frank Turner, Rag’n’Bone Man and more.
“Musicians can record in their bedrooms, but they can’t learn to perform in public without a place to play,” says Tom.
“Without that, there is no way you can communicate directly to people. It’ll be tough to hone your skills and you’ll never have the thrill of feeling their feedback.
“Without a grassroots music venue, the neighbourhood won’t have a place where people can come together to discover and support a new talent.”
He continues: “So support your local pub, club, gym or church or wherever someone has the guts to bring in some entertainment, it makes all the difference both to budding artists and the community.
“I’m delighted to be able to perform a special show as part of The National Lottery’s Revive Live Tour and to be celebrating the return of live music.”
Mark Dayvd, CEO of Music Venue Trust, adds: “It’s so important to get artists and crew back out and working, to get our grassroots music venues back up and running, and to get friends, families and communities back together enjoying live music.
“Grassroots music venues play a crucial role in the development of British music, nurturing local talent, providing a platform for artists to build their careers and develop their music and their performance skills.
“These venues also play a vital role in the cultural and economic vibrancy of any village, town or city. The National Lottery Revive Live Tour is a fantastic initiative which will kickstart the return of great events across the country. We can’t wait to get started!”
Up to 30,000 tickets will be given to National Lottery players, with an equal amount on sale for the general public.
Tickets for The National Lottery’s ‘Revive Live’ Tour go on sale July 12. More info here.
