As we recently reported, a survey conducted by the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) found that 90% of independent music venues will face closure if the coronavirus shutdown lasts six months or longer if no federal support is provided. NIVA has sent an open letter to Congress, with 600 artists signing in support of funding to keep these venues afloat. The letter points out that “The live music experience is inextricably tied to our nation’s cultural and economic fabric… The collapse of this crucial element in the music industry’s ecosystem would be devastating.”
Those who’ve signed include Dave Grohl, Billie Eilish, Willie Nelson, Robert Plant, André 3000, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga, Kacey Musgraves, Bon Iver, St. Vincent, Trent Reznor, Patti Smith, David Byrne, Earth Wind & Fire, Vampire Weekend, Alice Cooper, Jack Black, Josh Homme, Ozzy Osbourne, Mitski, Maggie Rogers, Conor Oberst, Beach House, Kamasi Washington, David Letterman, Jerry Seinfeld, Whoopi Goldberg, Sarah Silverman, Jay Leno, Ilana Glazer, Tig Notaro, and Jeff Foxworthy.
A bi-partisan group of 150 members of Congress also sent letters to Senate and House leaders in support of NIVA’s requests.
The NIVA is also asking Congress for loan forgiveness and tax credits specifically related to ticket refunds, employee retention, and safe workplace initiatives, as well as the expansion of the Paycheck Protection Program to cover salary and insurance benefits for part-time employees, which make up a large percentage of venue staff.
Artists and members of the general public can show their own support for NIVA by visiting SaveOurStages.com to send a letter to their local and state representatives to encourage the passage of legislation benefiting independent venues.
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