In plans that have just been proposed, it says August 1st will be when socially distanced audiences will be allowed back into music halls and other venues. This is a reverse on what had previously been said as at the start of lockdown it was rumoured we would have to wait another year for it to return. 

Unusually, this is the opposite of what we heard only a few days ago when Live Nation took the decision to cancel the drive-in gigs due to localised lockdowns and COVID-19 fears. With this it leaves many wondering that, if drive-in gigs are cancelled then surely normal gigs will not be safe either for people to return to. Especially with it only being two weeks difference between the two dates.

Please read our statement regarding the latest government announcement about live gigs returning as early as August 1st. pic.twitter.com/NieuOi70wh

— Music Venue Trust (@musicvenuetrust) July 17, 2020

But expect the changes to be conditional and subject to whether a second wave does end up happening. Boris Johnson said “We will restart indoor performances to a live audience subject to the success of pilots.” He also outlined October 1st for fans to return to sports stadiums. Fingers crossed the pilots do go well and we can finally start going back to watch artists we love. 

This move has not been without its critics though. The Music Venue Trust posted on Twitter saying that putting “it would not be financially viable” for grassroots venues to start putting shows on again. Having not been open for months, some venues across the UK have unfortunately had to close due to a lack of funds to keep themselves up and running.

Though, it is a move closer to returning to normality, many  can not help but feel as if it is a tad too soon to bring them back. You feel as if the possible negatives outweigh the positives much more. It could help venues open and get money back, but if experts are saying it would not be viable then they should heed that warning and think about it again. 

It does bring a good feeling back though, as the idea of seeing live music again is enough to entice anyone. When many think of the people they had the opportunity to see but could not because Corona got in the way, it really does make many want it more. Personally, I would have seen Tyler, the Creator, Skepta and Anderson.Paak. But I guess I’ll have to wait until the next time then.

More can be read from mxdwn’s US division here.