This week my Facebook page started lighting up with the first post-iso gig announcements. Venues are preparing to host small crowds and hopefully earn enough to keep their doors open.
But it would be a shame to let this galling past few months pass without implementing change.
Streamed gigs weren't just a salve for those of us who live in cities, go to gigs frequently and miss that indescribable rush of seeing great live music.
They also (perhaps inadvertently) removed almost every barrier stopping people from enjoying live shows.
If you live in a regional area, suffer from social anxiety, can't be around liquor, are unemployed, underage, or have a disability – going to a gig is very, very hard.
We talk about music being for everyone. But how much do we consider our privilege when we say that?
I'd support a scheme that puts a small and simple film rig in major venues around the country, allowing artists to sell virtual tickets to people who can't be there in person.
Yes, there will be huge teething problems. But that's going to happen regardless. Why can't we iron them out now?
No, it's not the same for those of us with a fetish for wearing other peoples' sweat and spending half the week with ringing ears. But it's not about us. We can still do that.
No one is taking that away. I want the future of the music industry to be
access for all.
