Exclusive: Mayor of London Sadiq Khan Talks New Grassroots Music Campaign

London is turning the volume all the way up this summer. And leading the charge is Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has launched a campaign that shines a spotlight on the capital’s world-leading grassroots music scene.

The Mayor and TfL (Transport for London) have teamed up with leading music and media entities to celebrate revered venues and artists and the seismic impact they continue to have.

Central to the campaign is the first-ever Grassroots Music Tube Map, which is housed at Outernet London for the next month.

The dynamic map features London’s music venues, iconic and contemporary artists, nightclubs, songs, albums, independent record labels, record shops, and locations of music heritage.

That Grape Juice had the privilege of speaking with the Mayor of London at the launch.

In an exclusive chat with TGJ’s Nadia Mumuni, Khan opened up about his bold new initiative and reflected on seeing some of the biggest names on the charts at key London venues.

Read the interview below.

 

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That Grape Juice: Tell us about this incredible ‘London Creates Music’ campaign. What inspired it, and what are you hoping to achieve?

Mayor Sadiq Khan: We’ve got some amazing grassroots venues across our city, and they’re an uncelebrated success. We all know about the stadiums — Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, The O2 — where some of the world’s biggest artists will perform this summer. But we also have 179 grassroots venues in London. These are places where now world-famous artists once played when they were just starting out — and they’re still great spots for a brilliant night out.

These venues have faced huge challenges: from the pandemic to business rates, rent hikes, and even the impact of Brexit. That’s why we launched this campaign — to celebrate and support them. Whether it’s Brixton Academy, Bread and Roses, Village Underground, or the 100 Club, we want to champion the spaces that give us iconic gigs at affordable prices.

That Grape Juice: Grassroots venues have played a key role in shaping some of London’s biggest stars. In 2018, you launched the ‘Sounds Like London’ programme — why is now the time to refocus on these spaces?

Mayor Sadiq Khan: It’s crucial we remember that successful artists don’t just appear — they need space and time to grow. That’s why we created licensed busking areas in London, giving people the opportunity to perform publicly. Many go on to become professional musicians.

Our culture — especially live music — is part of what makes London so special. But we can’t just assume these venues will survive. We need to help them thrive. That’s why we’re lobbying the government for more powers over licensing. We’re also continuing to invest in the night tube, night overground, and night buses, so Londoners can get home safely after a show. Too many venues have already been lost — we want to protect what’s left and support the rise of new ones.

That Grape Juice: That’s really important — and on a personal note, who are some of your favorite London artists, or do you have a favorite memory from a grassroots venue?

Mayor Sadiq Khan: Oh, loads! I’ve seen so many artists who are now massive, playing in small venues — from Dave to Stormzy. I remember seeing Dua Lipa at Brixton Academy. I’ve also been to Village Underground, where I saw Bel Cobain perform — and Riz Ahmed too.

The great thing is that these venues offer an amazing experience for an average ticket price of £11. If you can’t afford a big stadium show, check out your local grassroots venue. This summer is going to be huge for music in London, and we want grassroots venues to be front and centre.

London’s grassroots music scene is renowned around the world.

From providing opportunities for talented aspiring artists to giving Londoners a great night out, our venues are an essential part of our life at night.”

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