A new series of music events presented by the band Annie and the Jays launches tonight at the Voodoo Rooms in Edinburgh at 7:30pm.
The event series called ‘Local Live’ is described as a night “run by artists, in support of artists” which wants to focus on “promoting undiscovered local artists, engaging audiences for the whole night with a festival feeling set up and supporting grassroots venues that are under so much pressure.”
The band aim to make the format into a regular series of events that will “lift up” artists and support grassroots venues.
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When speaking about the reasons behind the event, the band’s lead singer, Annie, said that they understand “how hard it can be for new musicians in the industry to feel supported at gigs, to find community and to engage new audiences”
“We also recognise the importance of keeping grassroots venues alive and engaging audiences for a full night at the venue, providing much-needed spaces for emerging artists to perform and connect with audiences.”
Annie and the Jays was formed in 2024. Her and her brother, George, shared a strong passion for music, attending a talk on the topic of grassroots music at the Resonate Conference in November 2024 by Music Minds Matter.
Reflecting on that conference, Annie said “it occurred to us we wanted to do more personally to support emerging artists and Grassroots venues.”
Tonight’s event will also be raising money for Help Musician’s mental health service named Music Minds Matter which offers a confidential mental health support phoneline to those who work in the music industry.
A portion of the proceeds from the event will contribute directly to supporting musicians in need. Annie describes it as “inspiring” to see artists “coming together for such an important cause”.
The full line up for the event includes Ben Lauder, The Urban and Pink Cloud Season. These artists all have something in common, Annie and the Jays met them all at gigs that they have previously performed at.
You can purchase tickets for tonight’s event and find out more information by visiting the Voodoo Rooms website.
The Mourning Paper 