In this compelling episode, Sean Watterson and Kendall Gilvar, board member and staff member of the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), join us to discuss the State of Live initiative — a groundbreaking economic research study focused on the independent live music sector. This study is the first of its kind, designed to gather critical data that will empower independent venues to advocate for their survival and success at the local, state, and federal levels.

Throughout the conversation, Watterson and Gilvar dive into the specific challenges independent venues face, such as economic pressures, rising operational costs, and the impacts of the pandemic on live music. They explain how the State of Live survey will collect essential data—ranging from ticket sales and employee numbers to the cultural contributions of these venues—to help create a compelling case for government support and policy change.

This episode is essential for anyone invested in the live music industry, whether you're a venue owner, promoter, artist, or music lover, as it sheds light on the future of live music advocacy and the economic significance of independent venues.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The Importance of Data Collection for Advocacy: You'll discover why data is a powerful tool for advocacy in the live music sector. Watterson and Gilvar discuss how the State of Live initiative will arm independent venues with reliable data to support grant applications, policy changes, and community-level advocacy efforts.
• The Economic Challenges of Independent Venues: Learn about the financial strain many independent venues are experiencing, including thin profit margins, rising costs, and challenges from declining alcohol sales and local media coverage. The speakers explore how data from the survey will help venues make their case for continued support.
• The Broader Cultural Impact of Live Music: Beyond the economic numbers, the State of Live survey also emphasizes the cultural value of independent venues, highlighting their role in artist development and community building. You'll gain insight into how the independent sector contributes to the broader cultural landscape of music.
• Survey Details & Participation: You’ll learn about how the State of Live survey works, including the types of data being collected, the time commitment required to complete it, and how venues can use their results for advocacy and fundraising. The survey is a unique opportunity for venues to shape the narrative around the economic importance of live music.
• Future of the Live Music Industry Post-Pandemic: With the pandemic still impacting live venues, the speakers address the long-term effects on the industry, including changes in audience behavior, the rise of alternative experiences over traditional concerts, and the growing issue of high ticket costs. They provide an optimistic outlook for the industry’s resilience and recovery.
• Confidentiality & Data Protection: Worrying about privacy? Watterson and Gilvar explain how confidentiality is a top priority, with all survey data handled by a trusted third-party firm, Economy, ensuring that all information is protected and used solely for research and advocacy purposes.
• How You Can Get Involved: The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to participate in the State of Live survey and help ensure the recovery and sustainability of the independent live music sector. You'll learn how to access more information and get involved in supporting this vital initiative.