Fatboy Slim supports small venues with grassroots performance

DJ Fatboy Slim recently showed his support for the grassroots music scene by performing at a small venue in Brighton, demonstrating his commitment to preserving these vital spaces. Known by his real name Norman Cook, the DJ entertained a sold-out audience at The Pipeline, a quaint 60-capacity establishment, as part of the Everywhere At Once festival.

This “rock bar” is currently in the process of being acquired by Music Venue Properties (MVP), a move aimed at safeguarding grassroots venues by offering cultural leases with affordable rents. Cook emphasized the significance of these small venues as the breeding grounds for burgeoning careers and expressed his desire to give back to the community by performing there.

The Everywhere At Once festival made its debut with over 2,000 artists performing at approximately 400 grassroots venues throughout the UK. Cook’s support act at the event was Jacobi Knight, the boyfriend of his daughter Nelly, while his son, Woody Cook, showcased his talent by supporting hip hop duo Rizzle Kicks at Patterns on the Brighton seafront.

Highlighting the event’s timing, scheduled during what would have been the Glastonbury weekend hiatus, the festival aimed at underscoring the importance of live music beyond the major festival circuit, emphasizing that musical experiences can be found right “on your doorstep.”

Mark Davyd, the chief executive of the charity Music Venue Trust, firmly stated the critical role grassroots spaces play in nurturing emerging talent. Thomas Evrenos, the owner of The Pipeline, expressed enthusiasm for the festival’s concept, noting that it provided a unique opportunity for artists and attendees, especially when juxtaposed with the typically crowded Glastonbury weekend.

MVP, established by the trust, has successfully purchased nine grassroots venues since 2022, illustrating its commitment to supporting these spaces. Through crowdfunding and various fundraising initiatives, the trust has managed to raise approximately £7 million for these ventures.

Cook and other DJs within his family share a common goal of safeguarding small venues, recognizing their invaluable contribution to the local music scene. Their united efforts reflect a shared sense of responsibility towards nurturing emerging talent and preserving the grassroots music culture.

In conclusion, Fatboy Slim’s performance at The Pipeline was not merely a musical gig; it was a testament to his dedication to grassroots music and his unwavering support for the small venues that serve as the lifeblood of the music industry. The Everywhere At Once festival successfully shed light on the significance of these spaces, emphasizing the need for continued preservation and community support to ensure their longevity and vitality.