Fatboy Slim invests in Brighton music venue as part of grassroots preservation scheme

Fatboy Slim is among the investors bringing Brighton music venue The Pipeline under community ownership.

Originally launched in East London in 2009, The Pipeline later moved to Brighton, where it has operated as an independent rock venue since 2017. The venue will now be preserved following its acquisition by Music Venue Properties (MVP) and the Charitable Community Benefit Society.

Described as "The National Trust for Music Venues", the MVP operates under the Music Venue Trust's Own Our Venues scheme, which purchases buildings that house grassroots music venues to provide them with security and safeguarding to ensure that they can continue to serve their cultural communities.

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Among the investors in MVP's purchase of The Pipeline is Brighton local Fatboy Slim, aka Norman Cook, who is now urging other musicians and public figures to follow suit. 

"Our thriving music business needs grassroots venues," Cook said in a statement. "Community ownership means they pay fair rent and have security, knowing their venue will not suddenly be turned into a block of flats. MVP is an ethical investment that protects venues but also has a sound business model."

"I have invested a substantial sum and I am proud to be able to help protect the nurturing environments for future musicians and DJs," he continues. "I urge anyone to join me, whether you are a successful musician wanting to give something back to the lower rungs of the food chain or a music fan who wants to feel part of the wonderful community. It’s not a donation, it’s an investment in the future of our wonderful music industry.“

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The Pipeline's operator, Thomas Evrenos, adds: "I'm very proud that Music Venue Properties chose The Pipeline to become part of its portfolio. Everyone here is really happy about this, not just the team at The Pipeline but the wider Brighton music community, our staff, regulars and the musicians who have made this place what it is."

"Knowing the building is now secured means we can focus on what matters most: putting on great shows, supporting grassroots talent and giving people a place to belong," he continues. "Community ownership has given this venue a future, protecting it from the uncertainty of the commercial property market and ensuring The Pipeline can continue to play its part in Brighton's music scene for years to come."

Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, get in touch with her here.