A LIVE music renaissance is under way across the country led by bands like The Darkness, new official figures show.
While fans are more likely to catch the glam rockers led by ex-Huddersfield Technical College student Justin Hawkins at a stadium, rising numbers of small venues are also putting on gigs.
Almost half, 47%, of pubs, clubs, student unions and restaurants featured at least one live act in the past year. And a fifth, 19%, of small venues staged gigs at least twice a month, the Live Music Forum poll found.
Keith Ames, of the Musician's Union, said the findings reflect the growing interest in live acts.
People are increasingly likely to catch a band rather than going to a club or watching a comedy act, he said.
"They are appreciating the value of live music whether it is Robbie Williams at Glastonbury or a tribute band down the Dog and Duck," he said.
The Live Music Forum brings together people from the music industry, licensing authorities and small venue owners.
