Musicians rally behind Fife live music venue at risk of permanent closure

Backstage Kinross has been unable to operate since March this year due to coronavirus restrictions.

Music Venue Trust (MVT) has named Mundell Music’s Backstage Kinross as one of the 30 grassroots music venues most at risk of permanent closure in the UK – and one of four most likely to close in Scotland.

Since then, supporters have rallied round.

A Crowdfunder appeal has so far raised over £10,000, and many of the artists who have performed at Backstage Kinross over the years have given their support.

David Mundell, of Mundell Music, thanked everyone for their help.

In a regular newsletters from the venue, David said: “MVT has checked all the available funding, financial support, furlough schemes and business support for Kinross and the other venues, and what is on offer is not enough to prevent the threat that our venue could be permanently closed as a result of this crisis.

“We really need your help to survive.

“Please keep on with your help and support. Try and share the Crowdfunder campaign on social media, it really does help.”

Adam Wakeman – who has performed with the likes of Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Travis and Atomic Kitten – has been a regular visitor to Backstage Kinross.

He said: “Small venues and promoters are the backbone of grass level touring.

“Without these making it possible for us, these intimate shows will disappear leaving a gaping void in the live music experience.

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“David (Mundell) was the first to support us (Wilson & Wakeman) when we started a new recording and touring duo, and we are forever grateful for the support we have received over the years.”

Guitarist John Verity, from Argent, also sent a personal message, saying: “Backstage is one of my favourite UK venues and I always feel happy when our regular annual visit is set in the diary.

“The gig has everything going for it – great sound and lighting, together with a promoter who genuinely loves live music and knows how to run it properly.”

“Audiences are always welcoming, as are the staff at the venue.”

American singer-songwriter Dean Friedman is another musician who enjoys performing at the Kinross venue.

“I always look forward to my gigs at Backstage, not just because of the venue’s cosy ambience and always friendly audiences, but because David Mundell is a rarity in the world of venue managers – unlike most, he actually cares about both the music and the artists who make the music,” he said.

“He’s a true gentlemen and supporter of the independent artist. That’s why for musicians like myself, it’s always a pleasure to return to Kinross.”

MVT, which represents hundreds of UK grassroots music venues, is currently focused on securing the future of 30 most at-risk venues – including Backstage – which were ineligible to receive funding from, either wholly or partially, from recovery funds.

David Mundell added: “If ever there was a time to support your local music venue, this is it. Help Mundell Music/ Backstage Kinross to overcome this and survive 2020 and be ready to re start in April 2021.”