Breaking Bread, Sharing Beats.

In an era where our lives are increasingly mediated by screens, the allure of live music and the communal warmth of restaurants serve as reminders of the ineffable qualities that bind us together.

Unlike passive consumption, attending a live performance is an active engagement. It's about more than just notes and lyrics; it's about the shared experience and collective energy of the crowd, the spontaneous moments that can't be replicated, and the feeling of being part of something larger than oneself. In a digital age where algorithmic predictions often dictate our listening habits, live music offers a space for serendipity and connection, reminding us that human emotion and expression are at music’s core.

Similarly, restaurants offer more than just food; they are communal hubs where people come together to share meals, celebrate milestones, and engage in the simple, yet profound act of breaking bread with others. In a fast-paced world, restaurants offer a pause and a space where time slows down. They are places where art meets industry, where chefs and servers combine creativity with craft to create experiences that resonate on sensory and emotional levels. Through dining, we engage in a ritual that is both personal and shared, connecting us to different cultures, traditions, and stories.

Yes, the economic impact of live music and restaurants is significant, driving everything from jobs, trade and tourism. Yet, their value cannot be fully captured by economic metrics alone.

These spaces play a crucial role in enriching our cultural landscape, fostering community, and promoting our individual and shared well-being.Yet, the future of live music and restaurants is not guaranteed.

Despite everything we witnessed over the last week in Melbourne and Sydney (and to be clear from the pic, I was fortunate enough to be in the crowd for a show and experience that was truly special), live music and hospitality are facing unprecedented challenges. For every sold-out show from Taylor Swift, Blink-182, or P!nk, there is an aspiring local artist trying to get their first break, and local venues like Adelaide's Enigma Bar, closing its doors for the last time. Likewise, hospitality is witnessing closure of much-loved locations including Sydney's Cornersmith (be sure to check out Dani Valent's feature from today's edition of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age).

The challenges of the digital economy, coupled with rising costs and shifting consumer habits, pose existential threats. A pandemic only highlighted the vulnerability of these industries, underscoring the need for sustained support and innovative solutions.

Nobody has it easy...just differing levels of hard.

And those around these industries, from government, to landlords, to those in media, brands and corporates, and yes, even consumers need to do more.

Our musicians and hospitality workers are always first to step up when we need them. It’s time to return the favour.

There's no one solution and definitely no quick fix.

Everything has to be on the table to ensure these industries are supported and sustainable for generations to come.

Join the conversation, or better yet and in your own way, please be part of the solution.