From teenagers taking their first tentative steps into creating music in their bedrooms to local bands hoping to build a following, the past few years have been a difficult time for grassroots musicians as the pandemic shut down live venues. It has cut off earnings while restricting opportunities for new talent to cut their teeth, collaborate and network.
For the likes of Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Madonna, who can sell out areas even during a cost of living crisis, the bounce back has been quick. But for those starting out, the convoluted economics of the music industry has never been more challenging, as fans with less money in their pockets are torn between spending that extra £20 on their monthly streaming subscription, a taxi home after a gig (because you know there won’t be any buses) or a night out at a small venue to listen to some local talent.
Two Bristolians, each involved in different sectors of the local music scene, have combined forces to help emerging artists take the next step on the ladder and hopefully create a few ripples in the process.
