Live music returns this summer with acts including Rita Ora and Little Mix planning socially-distanced drive-in gigs
LIVE music will return to the UK this summer as the world’s biggest concert firm plans to hold socially distanced drive-in gigs, The Sun can reveal.
Events giant Live Nation is today unveiling a series of festival-style events across Britain.
Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
Music fans will be able to attend by car at specially-designed sites to watch a host of big-name acts between July and September.
The performances will be the first live gigs since lockdown rules were introduced back in March — and will provide a desperately needed boost to the industry, which supports thousands of workers.
It also marks a major new step in Britain’s bid to economically bounce back from the Covid-19 crisis — along with a welcome glimmer of excitement for fans desperate to see bands perform again.
The first of the gigs are unveiled today — and The Sun can reveal details of how music fans can buy tickets which will allow them to attend in their cars, before parking up in their own safe space from which they can enjoy the event.
Performances from acts including The Streets, Spandau Ballet’s Tony Hadley, The Lightning Seeds, Cream, jazz singer Beverley Knight, DJ Sigala and classical singer Russell Watson will be unveiled.
A host of pop acts including Rita Ora, Little Mix and Jess Glynne are also understood to be in discussions to join the summer line-up.
Called Utilita Live From The Drive-In, the events will feature family-friendly performances at 12 venues across Britain — including Cheltenham Racecourse, Leeds East Airport and Newmarket Racecourse.
They are all sponsored by energy firm Utilita.
Computer-generated graphics reveal how cars will be ushered into designated spots on the site, with food and drink facilities also laid on to complete the concert experience.
Singer Gary Numan, famed for his hit Cars, is among the performers already signed up.
He said: “This is such a unique and innovative idea — and crucially it’s exactly what the music business needs right now.
“For most musicians live performances are a big portion of your income. For me it’s about two thirds.
“And unless you’re Ed Sheeran, which I’m not, performers don’t rely on record sales and streams any more.”
He said it is not just performers who have been unable to work, as live music is a massive industry which supports thousands of people.
Gary said: “It’s musicians, road crew, catering, lorry drivers, lighting experts, tour managers — and every one of those people has been left without work in the last few months.
“As well as the business reasons, live music can be a vital boost for British music fans — and I just hope the whole industry gets behind this project. I think these gigs will be an amazing experience.”
He said he was only told about the innovative gigs a few days ago but did not hesitate to get involved.
Gary added: “I’ll be honest with you, the financial margins are much smaller than normal gigs and there is more risk involved to the artist in terms of the logistical concerns, but it’s worth it to get things up and running again.
“I didn’t even think about the practicalities of it — where will we be able to stay, will we have to quarantine when we arrive, do I even have a crew any more or have they all had to get other jobs?
“It’s difficult, but it’s vital. I hope this will be an amazing experience for fans. It seems a great opportunity to put on a show, play the songs people know and make it a memorable occasion.”
Organisers vowed the events will take place in line with the Government’s social distancing guidelines. Tickets will go on sale on June 22.
A music industry source added: “There are a number of other big names in discussions to join the gigs, but this is a massive step in the right direction.
“Big pop acts like Rita Ora and Little Mix are interested, and hopefully these events can show that live music can get back to life this year — and soon.”
Ticket prices will vary depending on the number of passengers per car, with vehicles carrying up to seven people allowed to attend. But any ticket-holders with Covid-19 symptoms or in a vulnerable category will be urged not to travel.
Live Nation executive Peter Taylor said: “We are excited to bring Utilita Live From The Drive-In to fans across the UK.
Most read in TV & Showbiz
“This concert series was created as a way to reimagine the live music experience in a time of social distancing by allowing fans to enjoy concerts in the safest way possible.
“Each event will comply with all official government guidelines in order to protect fans, artists, crews and staff.
“We look forward to announcing some of the biggest names across UK music and bringing these fantastic artists to a city near you.”
CORONAVIRUS CRISIS - STAY IN THE KNOW
Don't miss the latest news and figures - and essential advice for you and your family.
To receive The Sun’s Coronavirus newsletter in your inbox every tea time, sign up here.
To follow us on Facebook, simply ‘Like’ our Coronavirus page.
Get Britain’s best-selling newspaper delivered to your smartphone or tablet each day – find out more.
GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL exclusive@the-sun.co.uk