Legendary Grammy-nominated guitarist Tommy Emmanuel has announced that he will host a series of live stream concerts to raise funds for independent concert venues,
On Saturday, August 15th and Saturday, August 29th, Emmanuel will perform live from Tunesmith Studio. Proceeds raised from the stream will benefit venues The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia and The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, California.
“Without some support, we are in danger of losing some of the independent venues that are a part of our culture and our local communities,” Emmanuel shared in a press release “Most people don’t realize how many people the touring industry supports. It’s so much more than an artist onstage.
“When we do get back to touring, I want to make sure some of these places are still around for me to play, so I’ve tried to figure out a way to help these independent venues, especially the ones that have supported me throughout the years,” the musician added.
“We also wanted to create some sort of normality to the industry right now. That’s why we are going to have opening acts on these live streams and that I’m going to pay my team just like any other show.”
The first event is set to kick off at 8 pm ET, and will see Emmanuel supported by Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley. The second show will start at 9 pm ET with support from Andy McKee.
Tickets for both performances start at USD $15 and are on sale now.
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Back in June, a survey conducted by the National Independent Venue Association revealed that 90 percent of independent venue owners, promoters and bookers across the United States feared that they will have to close their doors permanently as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The survey interviewed nearly 2,000 people operating within the music industry. Including those involved in iconic independent venues The Bowery Ballroom in New York City, Troubador in Los Angeles, 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C. and Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.
90 percent of those who took part have admitted that if the lockdown lasts six months or longer, and the government fails to provide targetted financial relief, they will be forced to cease operations.
