NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The ongoing COVID-19 outbreak is hurting local musicians as venues are temporarily closing and crowds are getting smaller.
There are currently 26 confirmed cases of the virus in Tennessee, and 10 of those are in Davidson County.
In an effort to help reduce the spread of the virus, multiple nationwide tours have been canceled, as well as, other concerts in small and medium size venues. Some local musicians say they are losing work as a result.
“It’s cost me 5 gigs this month,” said Buck McCoy, a local singer. “I thought March would be a great month, but it’s turning out to be less than great.”
McCoy is a regular performer at Legends Corner on Lower Broadway. He said maintaining that show is especially important now to help pay the bills.
Dave Pomeroy, President Nashville Musicians Association AFM local 257, said many musicians are feeling a financial pinch.
“There are many artists who are literally paying musicians based on the money they make on a particular tour,” said Pomeroy. “With that income stream going away, the impact is immediate and very strong.”
Pomeroy said as large events like the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament are also canceled, that can reduce the crowds for people who perform along Lower Broadway.
“There’s a direct relationship between what you take home and how many people are in the audience,” said Pomeroy. “This is going to have an impact for a long time.”
McCoy said he hoped the music would continue on Lower Broadway because it can help soothe people during uncertain times.
“I believe we shouldn’t be panicked and we shouldn’t be afraid,” said McCoy. “I am going to go out there and live my life normally.”
The Musicians Foundation in New York provides financial assistance to musicians across the country in times of need. Some requests are for a couple hundred dollars, and $3,000 is the maximum the group gives out. Officials said they typically receive five applications a day, but in the last 24 hours, they received 300 requests. No additional requests are being accepted, while the group tries to figure out how to handle the situation. Officials are asking musicians in need to be patient, and they hope to have an update next week.
For more information visit: http://www.musiciansfoundation.org/
The Nashville Musicians Association AFM Local 257 also has an emergency relief fund for members. It can dole out up to $3,000 for medical issues. For more information visit: http://www.nashvillemusicians.org/
Musicares also offers financial assistance for musicians: https://www.grammy.com/musicares
The Grand Ole Opry also has a trust fund that offers financial assistance for Opry performers: https://www.opry.com/opry-trust-fund/
