This week on Elevator Music, we’re joined by Mark Davyd, CEO of Music Venue Trust, for one of the most important conversations we’ve had on the podcast to date.

We dig into the reality of the UK’s grassroots music scene — not just the romance of it, but the very real challenges it’s facing, and the urgent work being done to protect it. From stories like Muse playing a venue for £2.50 to Green Day sleeping on a pool table, Mark shares the history, the chaos, and the community that shaped so many of our favourite artists — and that continues to give emerging acts their first shot today.

But this isn’t just nostalgia. We talk through the Grassroots Levy, the work of Music Venue Properties, and how bands, fans, promoters, and even podcasts like ours can step up and support the scene before it’s too late.

We didn’t just invite Mark on because he’s a great speaker — we invited him because we believe in what Music Venue Trust is doing. So much so that we’ve chosen to invest directly in their mission to save and secure independent venues across the UK. This episode is us putting a spotlight on that work — and encouraging you to get involved however you can.

Alongside the conversation, we’ve got brand new music from George Holden, 13 Rivers, and Lickshot — three artists who are part of the next wave, playing in grassroots venues and building real connections, not follower counts.

Whether you’re an artist who’s loaded gear through the fire escape, a promoter doing it for the love, or just someone who’s ever seen a life-changing gig in a sweaty back room — this one’s for you.

Support the scene. Submit your music. Find out more at elevatormusicpodcast.com.