Protect our Grassroots
London’s musical notoriety and cultural history are underpinned by some of the most distinctive music venues in the world—spaces that have hosted almost every great musician imaginable. However, with the rise of streaming, the popularity of live music has declined significantly over the past decade or two. This shift has contributed to the closure of many venues, or their “rescue” by large corporations.
I have found myself in iconic London venues such as Shepherd’s Bush Empire and Brixton Academy, both of which have been acquired by major companies like O2. These buildings retain their stunning interiors and rich gig histories—sticky floors, cheap pints, and a character deeply loved by Londoners. Yet they now stand as shells of their former selves, dominated by O2 Priority standing areas, corporate advertising throughout the venue, and dreaded £10 beers. London’s music venues are becoming increasingly soulless, undergoing a slow and rather embarrassing demise.
Venues should not be forced to choose between being sold to multinational corporations or closing permanently—often to be converted into £900-per-week luxury flats or yet another Gail’s. In a city celebrated for its cultural diversity, not enough is being done by stakeholders or the local government to protect these spaces from this fate.
One of the most heavily protested venue closures in London today is the Moth Club in Hackney, East London. Unlike many others, this is not due to financial failure or corporate acquisition, but the construction of private sector apartments next door. Concerns about late-night noise have led the developers to submit an application to the council seeking closure of the venue. This is despite the Moth Club being one of London’s most loved, community-driven venues.
Opening in 2015, this small but mighty space has hosted artists including Lady Gaga, Jarvis Cocker and Caroline Polachek. Since the threat of closure emerged, the venue has become a focal point for wider concerns about the survival of grassroots music spaces. Local residents and the global music community have rallied together, producing a petition with over 30,000 signatures, which has been promoted by artists such as Green Day, Tame Impala and Lewis Capaldi. The widespread support for this 300-capacity venue demonstrates just how valued it is. Through protests and fundraising nights, there is hope that it can remain open for years to come.
There is a deep sadness in losing these venues, whether through financial collapse or external pressures such as property development. These spaces sustain emerging artists and provide affordable opportunities for audiences to experience high-quality live music. Without them, London’s music scene risks becoming hollow, new bands lose the chance to thrive, and live music slowly fades from the city’s cultural fabric. Protecting these venues is not optional—it is essential.
