NME has launched a search for the best small venue for live bands in the UK. The magazine, which has been published weekly since 1952, is conducting the exercise to fight back against the closure of such establishments, Music Week reports.
The initiative was launched after the release of research conducted by UK Music, which indicated that around 50 pubs are closing each week around the country due to the economic problems precipitated by the credit crunch and by licensing laws. This in turn may be limiting soul bands and other ensembles.
NME editor Krissi Murison, who took up her role in September 2009 and is the publication’s first female editor, suggested that the failure of such establishments to survive is a shame. According to the expert, many of the most successful live bands would not have got as far as they have without the help of small venues.
She remarked: “They play an extremely important role in nurturing talent, which NME is very proud to support. It’s in all of the UK music industry’s interest for small venues to prosper.”
Recently, the magazine rolled out its search for Britain’s Best Small Venue and members of the public are being invited to nominate their favourite such places. In order to qualify for the accolade, they must have a maximum capacity of 500 or below. Entries will be assessed on the quality of the venue and on the music they have helped to encourage.
The entries will be separated into geographical areas and the winning venue in each will then be put forward to a final, where they will be judged by a panel of artists, promoters and live agents.After the winning venue has been identified, NME will work with it to stage a celebration later this year, potentially involving soul bands.