The 1975's Matty Healy advocates for seed venues amid economic challenges, prompting a new festival celebrating the crucial role of small music establishments.
The 1975's Matty Healy speaks out
Matty Healy of The 1975 has highlighted the importance of small gig venues, expressing concern over their viability in the face of mounting economic pressures. Healy has thrown his support behind a new festival aimed at celebrating and preserving these critical spaces.
Seed Sounds Weekender
The Seed Sounds Weekender, scheduled for September, will take place in over 1,000 pubs, bars, and restaurants across the UK, where emerging artists often launch their careers. Healy emphasized the crucial role these venues play in nurturing talent and fostering cultural diversity.
Challenges for small venues
Organizers of the festival noted the unprecedented economic challenges faced by seed venues, citing examples of iconic locations where now-famous artists got their start. The festival aims to raise awareness about the plight of these establishments and the need to support them for the future of music.
Support from the industry
Industry figures, including Kit Muir-Rogers of GigPig, underscored the significance of grassroots music venues and the need to safeguard their existence. The festival serves as a rallying cry for artists, audiences, and policymakers to recognize and preserve the vital role of seed venues in the music ecosystem.
Published on 29 July 2025 by Ben Robinson
