Despite it being one of the largest genres of music to come out of the UK in our time, Grime is reportedly being “stifled” due to Licensing authorities and police shutting down and canceling gigs and events for reasons that are not always justified.
Specifically, in a report by one MP it is outlined that “prejudices against grime artists risks stifling one of the UK’s most exciting musical exports.” This is a view that is more and more being shared, and for good reason. Not only does it put the artist at risk of not fulfilling their full potential, but it also puts huge parts of the UK’s economy at risk.
As for why grime is particularly suffering, the DCMS said that smaller venues were facing many issues with rising rent, sitting wages and many other complications that come with running events in a large city. Many of these business owners then say that to run a Grime or Hip-Hop event as apposed to another genre like jazz or rock can often bring more troubles and require tougher security, drug checks and more.
However, committee chairman, Damian Collins, said: “Urgent action is needed if the live music industry is to continue to make a significant contribution to both the economy and cultural life of the country,” adding: “We also look to the music industry to make sure that enough of the big money generated at the top finds its way down to grassroots level to support emerging talent.” Before finishing with “It happens with sport, why not music?”
