More than 5,000 club nights and gigs face cancellation if June 21 reopening is delayed

In a new study, 24% of Brits have agreed that live music is the number one thing they’re looking forward to on return to the reopening of life in the UK, according to DICE.

However, thousands of live shows are now facing cancellation if the prospective lift is delayed. On Monday, June 14, the government will announce whether the original plans to rid of all restrictions on June 21 will go ahead, just a week before the planned date.

Read this next: NTIA fears "nightclubs will become extinct in UK" amid uncertainty on reopening

5,000 live shows across the UK are now at risk of forced cancellation. The delay is said to be a result of the new Delta coronavirus variant, which the government is now addressing and stating that it could put the nation at risk.

The UK recorded over 7,300 cases on Wednesday - a steep rise from the more stable average of around 1,350 infections seen at the start of May.

Fans have spent a combined total of £1.3 billion on the UK’s return events, while 60% of music businesses have sold tickets to upcoming shows and club nights. If the date is pushed back further, this could be detrimental to the music and entertainment industry.

Read this next: The government will be challenged on June 21 delay by clubs and nightlife businesses

Global Head of Music at DICE, Andrew Foggin, stated: “Throughout lockdown, music has played a vital role in alleviating feelings of isolation and boosting moods. Fans miss live music and their desire to get closer to their favourite artists hasn’t diminished.

“Although nothing will replace in-person live shows, streaming offers fans the chance to get closer to their favourite artists and experience all the joys that a live event has to offer from the comfort of their own home.”

Another statistic from the same research held at DICE shows that 31% of people have used live streaming and music to help them through lockdown in support of their mental health.

Read this next: Partying through the pandemic

As many venues and music organisations now sit on a financial cliff edge, the Night Time Economy has agreed to call on the government for change if the relaxation rules are pushed back into July. Research shows that almost no transmission happened at pilot events held over the past few months.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Twitter