Blossoms and Maribou State Among Acts Receiving International Touring Funds

Explore how Blossoms and Maribou State are supported by the £1.6 million Music Export Growth Scheme for international touring.

Introduction to the Music Export Growth Scheme

In a fantastic boost for the music scene, Blossoms and Maribou State are two of the acts benefiting from a generous £1.6 million fund aimed at supporting international touring. This initiative, known as the Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS), is designed to help talented artists expand their reach across global audiences.

Funding Breakdown and Purpose

The BPI (British Phonographic Industry) administers this vital funding program, which is distributing a total of £1.6 million this year to support 58 different acts. This funding is crucial for those artists looking to grow their fanbase but who require additional financial support to do so.

Among the acts receiving support alongside Blossoms and Maribou State are:

• Lambrini Girls
• Nova Twins
• Antony Szmierek
• Tara Lily
• Bar Italia
• Wunderhorse
• Songer
• Recent cover stars Divorce

Collaborative Efforts for Growth

The MEGS program is a collaborative effort between the industry and the government. Funding comes from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), coupled with investment from the UK recorded music sector. This partnership aims to bolster small and medium-sized music companies to enhance their marketing and promotion efforts.

The Impact of Funding on Artists

According to the UK government's official website, this funding is a game-changer. It supports artists in touring abroad, attracting new fans, and generating additional revenue.

Sophie Jones, BPI chief strategy officer, highlighted the importance of this funding:

“The 58 incredible acts supported by this latest round of MEGS funding are testament to the diverse creative talent that exists across the whole of the UK. It is a genuine game-changer for the artists supported through the scheme, a critical resource for the UK’s burgeoning independent sector, and a proven financial success with a significant return on investment and boost to exports.”

Success Stories from Previous Funding Rounds

Previous rounds of the MEGS have also benefited notable artists like:

• Beabadoobee
• Dave
• Bicep
• Wolf Alice

These success stories demonstrate the tangible impact of such funding on nurturing talent and fostering growth in the UK music scene.

Challenges Facing the Touring Industry

In related news, indie band Los Campesinos! have openly discussed the financial challenges associated with touring in new locations, citing a significant loss from a one-off show in Dublin.

Moreover, last year, DJ Shadow expressed concerns about the current state of the touring industry, claiming that it is on the brink of “extinction.” Furthermore, various figures from the UK music industry pointed out that post-pandemic touring has revealed complications due to Brexit, which they argue is “strangling the next generation of UK talent in the cradle.”

Conclusion

With such significant funding and support, the future looks bright for acts like Blossoms and Maribou State. But as the touring landscape evolves, artists must navigate the challenges posed by financial constraints and regulatory changes.

If you’re a fan of these amazing artists, don’t forget to check out our store for your favorite album cover posters! Shop now!