Sold-out tours by Coldplay, Elton John, and Beyoncé boosted ticket sales and hospitality, leading to live music’s record £6.1bn contribution to the UK economy in 2023. This represents a 17% increase from the previous year, driven by a post-pandemic surge in demand. However, grassroots music venues faced challenges, with 125 closures in 2023 due to the cost of living crisis, according to industry body Live.
Free speech put on hold.
July 13, 2026
