The Music Thread

[The Dunster]

whilst its true that the traditional live music scene isnt what it once was, id argue its 'easier' for artists to get their music out there these days.

Streaming services, social media platforms have put a lot of power back into the artists hands vs being up against suits in charge of radio stations/record labels/venues. This prob started with JJJ Unearthed back in the day and has powered since then.

also, a lot of artists who have received enough exposure are now taking on their own live gigs.
Mrs Plague was recently involved with a band booking a Newcastle venue, they fronted the cash, negotiated ticket sales and bar sales. The band took all the risk, but backed themselves to sell the joint out (which they did) and it was an extremely lucrative nights work for them.

I went and saw Chvrches the other night at the Opera House. again, someone thought outside the box and put them in a venue that not only was iconic, but showcased their sound amazingly. No support band, and there was a buzzer that went off outside to let everyone know the gig was starting. It was very different to anything id been to regarding live music.
Not sure who was more blown away by that gig ever happening, the crowd or the band. But it worked.

Look at the bands playing the freaking Vineyards these days. Just bizarre.

The landscape has changed, but what industry hasnt in the last 20 years? Bands are dealing with what pretty much all of us do now, adapt or perish.

it's easier to get it out for sure - it's not so easy making a living from it.

One band out of how many ? What you described used to be common place - now it's the exception to the rule.

There's a bit left as far as publishing rights go but even then the artists don't own the streaming services - and the likes of them are slowly but surely taking a bigger slice of the action as well.