Livestreaming shows just part of #SaveOurStages action plan
By Preshias Harris
Independent venues are where most emerging singers and songwriters make their first stage appearances as they hone their skills and reach out to audiences, often in smaller, more intimate settings.
Now, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting ban or limits on public performance, those independent venues are the ones suffering the most – and are most likely to go dark forever. That would be a disappointment for potential audiences, but more seriously, it could be devastating for those singers, musicians and songwriters who rely on those venues to launch and develop their careers. (You can help by letting the Senate and the House of Representatives know you support this project. See below.)
In an effort to raise awareness and funds, the stars are coming out to put their talent and their celebrity status behind a push to “Save Our Stages.” The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) is partnering with YouTube for a 3-day virtual music festival to #SaveOurStages. #SOSFEST will live stream on NIVA’s official YouTube channel October 16-18 and will feature all new performances. This benefit event aims to generate significant awareness, advocacy and donations for the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund, directly supporting our most vulnerable venues experiencing catastrophic revenue loss.
Nashville #SaveOurStages shows
Throughout the 3-day virtual festival, live performances will stream directly from some of those iconic venues across America – including, of course, Nashville. Already announced: Little Big Town and Kelsea Ballerini at the Exit/In, Brothers Osborne at Mercy Lounge and Reba McEntire at the Ryman Auditorium. More are being added.
90% of independent venues will not survive the COVID-19 pandemic without financial aid. Your voice matters — Tell your legislators to save independent music venues! More than 2 million live music lovers have written letters to their elected officials via Help to #SaveOurStages by telling Congress to ACT NOW! You can make a difference. See how to tell your legislators to save independent music venues HERE!
Preshias Harris is a music journalist and music career development consultant with the emphasis on new and aspiring artists and songwriters. Her book, ‘The College of Songology 101: The Singer/Songwriter’s Need to Know Reference Handbook’ is available at www.collegeofsongology.com Follow her blog at www.nashvillemusicline.com