IN FOCUS
ISOLATION INNOVATIONS
It is obvious that the UK music scene has recently been shaken unfathomably and continues to be in a constant state of flux every day that the COVID-19 pandemic exists. Beyond its substantial economic worth, reported at almost ÂŁ5 billion in live and recorded sales, advertising and distribution, the UK music industry is a thriving cultural mixing pot of vital innovation and growth. Live performance is still taking the brunt of the damage, but recorded music has also been affected and the ramifications on individuals at all levels of the industry are still very much being felt. At this time of writing the UK government have acknowledged live performances relevance in part response to the #letthemusicplay campaign with a combined ÂŁ1.5 billion
arts funding package. This could prove to be a lifeline for areas of the industry struggling but ultimately will only keep their heads just above the water. Throughout the past few months of the pandemic there have been many smaller victories that show the adaptability and resilience of our industry. It is these innovations have the power to act transformatively on new normal for our musical lives.
From the get-go it was clear that both physical and digital media would need to work 12
together to play a part in how the music industry will cope with isolation financially, creatively and mentally. It has been inspiring to see the breadth of responses on all levels of the industry. There is a strong focus on musical communities coming together and whether it has been organising a street concert via WhatsApp after watching Gareth Malone’s Great British Home Chorus live streams or donating to Pxssy Pandemique Festival it is clear that this hard time is bringing people together to create great music and movements. There have been a variety of live streams ranging from sell out sets of Laura Marlin playing alone in Union Chapel to quirky home sets from innovative promotions companies like Under Wraps who have embraced the bedroom
