A beloved live music venue in Brighton has been given a lifeline after DJ Fatboy Slim joined a community-backed initiative to secure its future.
The Pipeline, a small venue located on Little East Street, is set to become the 10th property owned by Music Venue Properties (MVP), a community benefit society dedicated to protecting grassroots music venues from rising costs and the threat of closure.
Fatboy Slim, whose real name is Norman Cook, is one of several high-profile supporters who invested in the project. Others backing the initiative include Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Squeeze frontman Glenn Tilbrook.
Speaking about the importance of small venues, Cook said places like The Pipeline remind him of the early days of his own career, where young artists first experience the excitement of performing live.He described grassroots venues as the heartbeat of the music industry, explaining that they are where future stars develop their talent and where unforgettable memories are created.
He also stressed that many independent venues are struggling financially, making long-term support more important than ever.Earlier this year, Cook performed a sold-out show at The Pipeline as part of the Everywhere at Once festival, highlighting his continued support for the grassroots music scene.
MVP raises money through investors and community shares to purchase venue buildings and lease them back to operators under fair and stable terms. The goal is to prevent excessive rent increases and give independent venues the security they need to continue operating.
The organisation has now secured ownership of 10 venues across the UK, helping preserve spaces that play a vital role in nurturing emerging artists.Thomas Evrenos, who has managed The Pipeline since 2017, welcomed the move, saying it gives the venue much-needed stability.
He explained that having a landlord who understands the value of live music and supports its mission is essential, adding that without this outcome, rising rent could have forced him to close the venue.Peter Cornforth of Music Venue Properties said grassroots venues are essential to cities with thriving music cultures, providing young musicians with the opportunity to develop their skills while strengthening local communities.
