News

Big Friendly Productions Announces Live Stream Series in Birmingham March 17, 2020 12:00

-
Words by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
Photo by Craig Baird: Home Team Photography
-
We have officially entered uncharted territory, as the reality surrounding COVID-19 increases throughout each day. The devastating effect that this virus has had on industries across the globe is immeasurable at this point. For the first time in American history, we've seen a total shutdown on all public gatherings, including professional sports, NCAA March Madness, and live music as a whole.
-
The widespread cancellations have put the well-being of so many in jeopardy. The music industry is one of many which has come to a complete halt; leading to a very harsh reality for musicians, managers, booking agents, promoters, venue employees, and so many more. How long will this last?  When will it be safe to return to our normal lifestyle? These are perfectly reasonable questions, which seem impossible for anyone to provide a definite answer.
-
We do have a bit a good news to share today. Our friends at Big Friendly Productions have officially launched a new live stream series called Hunker in the Bunker, which kicks off on Friday, March 20th with performances from Little Raine Band and Desert Island Monster Mash. The series will continue on Saturday with Winston Ramble and Zach Austin & The Lonesome, while Taylor Hunnicutt and The Yellow Dandies will close out the weekend on Sunday. HITB will continue on a Thursday through Sunday basis for the foreseeable future. 
-
-
Here's the really cool part. This series gives you the opportunity to financially support all parties involved. As the amount of cancelled gigs continues to pile up, the music industry's total revenue is plummeting. Hunker in the Bunker allows you to make a donation of any amount to support both the artists and Big Friendly Productions, while enjoying the luxury of live music from your couch. Make sure to follow Big Friendly Productions on Facebook in order to tune in to all future live streams.
-
We caught up with Alex Cape, the founder of Big Friendly Productions, to learn more about the specifics of this unique live stream series. Check out the quotes below to learn more about Hunker in the Bunker, and feel free to reach out to Alex@bigfriendlyproductions.com for further details.
-
"In the past four days, we have had all shows in until May 9th cancel or postpone until further notice. It is hitting the pause button right at the beginning of our very busy spring / summer season."
-
"It's massive for us. We have been planning and preparing for the last 3 months for the spring and summer festival and private event seasons.  We have had over $100k in lost revenue in the last four days."
-
"We have activated a rehearsal space in downtown Birmingham to host local and regional artists that have also had cancellations. We have started with many of the bands that we work with on a regular basis. We plan on streaming as much as we can until whenever we can go back to work."
-
"Our first live stream will be this Friday, March 20th from 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM. We are going to broadcast from our company's Facebook page. We will take donations via Venmo, PayPal, and Cash App and hopefully pick up local business sponsors. Donations will be split appropriately between Big Friendly Productions and the participating bands"
-