NATIONAL INDEPENDENT VENUE ASSOCIATION: "“Temporary measures may appear to help artists in the short run but actually can squeeze out independent venues which provide the lifeblood of many artists on thin margins."

 NATIONAL INDEPENDENT VENUE ASSOCIATION have released a statement on LIVE NATION'S "ON THE ROAD PROGRAM" offering touring bands $1, 500 for gas and ending the practice of venues taking a cut of bands merch profits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

FROM NIVA:

 NIVA Statement on Initiative to Squeeze Out Independent Venues
“Temporary measures may appear to help artists in the short run but actually can squeeze out
independent venues which provide the lifeblood of many artists on thin margins. Independent
venues and promoters are investing in and elevating up-and-coming artists every day, and NIVA is
supporting those efforts nationally. The initiative announced yesterday may seem like a move to
follow the lead of some independent venues. It is not that.
“Instead, it appears to be a calculated attempt to use a publicly-traded conglomerate’s
immeasurable resources to divert artists from independent venues and further consolidate
control over the live entertainment sector. Such tactics threaten the vitality of small and
medium-sized venues under 3000 capacity, many of which still struggle to keep their doors open.
“Independent stages, where the majority of artists, musicians, and comedians start their
careers, are small businesses and nonprofits. They are continually facing rising costs, increased
deceptive ticketing practices in the resale market, and ongoing challenges following the global
pandemic. Our stages are critical to the live entertainment ecosystem and local economies, and
they must survive.
“The economics of touring must drastically improve for artists and independent venues. There
has to be a better way. NIVA will continue to support artists and empower independent venues as
we collectively find it.

Thanks-Stay Metal, Stay Brutal-\m/ -l-