Almost two weeks after a petition was launched for local broadcasters to focus on Aussie music during this time of COVID-19, subscription TV service Foxtel has announced a number of its channels will do just that on Mondays.
While lockdowns around the world have forced people inside due to COVID-19, the live music industry has taken a major hit, with countless artists and those who work alongside them finding their incomes to be highly unpredictable at the current time.
Though sites like ilostmygig have revealed a loss of over $316m for the industry so far, initiatives like Sound of Silence have offered people with methods in which they can support their favourite artists. However, one overarching request has been for local broadcasters to support local artists by playing their music more often.
As the likes of Kira Puru put out a challenge to broadcasters on Twitter, Batz vocalist Christina Aubry also launched a petition to achieve just that, with thousands of supporters joining the fight.
Now, as The Music Network reports, subscription TV service Foxtel have stepped up, revealing that their MAX, CMC, and [V] music channels will all broadcast nothing but Australian music on Mondays in order to support local artists.
Beginning on April 6th, the new initiative will see the three channels ensure that local content is on the cards each Monday, while the channels have also partnered with Support Act to help shine a light on the efforts the organisation makes to help affected musicians.
“As we enter a time of untold disruption it’s good to remember that we’ll get through this together and, when we do come together, it will certainly be with song,” explained Fraser Stark, Foxtel’s Group General Manager of Entertainment and Music.
“Musicians, and the wider live performance industry, have been immediately hit with the closure of venues and festivals. To hold a torch during this difficult impasse, [V], MAX and CMC are proud to play all-Australian music each Monday from April 6.
“We’ll use the moment to draw attention (and donations from those who can spare it) to the fine work of Support Act – which is already out there supporting artists in tough times.”
“Artists, crew and music workers are facing a bleak and uncertain financial future and are sometimes amongst the most vulnerable with regards to mental health and wellbeing,” added Support Act CEO Clive Miller.
“Please help us to support our music workers through this difficult period and help them be in a position to bounce back louder and prouder than ever once the pandemic has passed.”
