GigRealm, the go-to platform for booking live entertainment in hospitality, has this week shown the power of its offering in bringing the very best talent to the front line of grassroots venues, after one of its bands went from booking Greene King pubs through the platform to performing at Glastonbury 2023.
The Apple Shakers have proven that GigRealm is not only a crucial tool for up-and-coming musicians working their way up the ladder of success, but also that it opens doors for hospitality to access the very best that the UK live music scene has to offer.
Through GigRealm, hospitality – including scores of Greene King pubs – has gained access to some of the best acts the grassroots music industry has to offer. In turn, emerging talent with a growing fan base, such as Apple Shakers, have been able to easily secure gigs across the country. This journey showcases the pivotal role our pubs play in the music industry, and the value musicians give back to the high street to help drive footfall.
Greene King, with its longstanding commitment to supporting entertainment across their business, recognises the value that high quality live music brings to customers as part of their overall experience. By investing in grassroots musicians within local communities, their pubs have become thriving spaces for artists and their fans, serving as destination venues for both new and existing customers.
Jason Lockwood, Head of Entertainment at Greene King, added, "Live music is a key part of our offering, and it’s fantastic to see such amazing talent emerging in our local communities. Not only are we able to provide opportunities to these musicians but they help to bring exceptional entertainment to our customers."
Before their big break, Apple Shakers spent the last few years performing at numerous pubs across the UK, one of which being the William Garland, a Greene King pub in Caterham, known in its community for putting on fantastic live music.
Glyn Ward, General Manager at the William Garland, said, "We take pride in supporting up-and-coming talent, and it's amazing that we've been able to play a part in their journey. Not only do we have access to fantastic talent like The Apple Shakers, but it's also made easy through technology, as it helps us find quality bands with ease, that ultimately drive footfall and increase our sales."
Basil from Apple Shakers said, "This is a dream come true for us, and it's thanks to Greene King and GigRealm that we're able to progress to somewhere like Glastonbury but we'll soon be back in the local pubs playing more gigs and cannot wait!"
With a sector focused on diversification and catering to new audiences, live music remains a cornerstone of the high street, providing a reason to visit your local pub for something that cannot be replicated at home. Technology now more than ever has a vital role to play, as businesses look at new ways to enhance their offering. Reuben Narey, COO at GigRealm, stated, "Platforms such as GigRealm don't just provide instant access to great talent, but a way to drive footfall through their loyal fans, whilst creating vibrant atmospheres for new and existing customers looking for something different and a reason to go out. Through the platform, this can all be done with minimal effort for both the pub and musician."
One thing’s for sure, the UK live music scene is teeming with yet-undiscovered talent, ready to offer world-class entertainment and turn your local into a destination for music-lovers and experience-seekers alike. Apple Shakers show us the impact that a strong pub scene can have on a band’s career, and how, through platforms like GigRealm, pubs are able to bring Glastonbury-quality live music to their customers within just a few clicks.