These arrangements are, Allmark says, "the single biggest problem facing grassroots venues – the ultimate crime," leading to chronic underinvestment.
Nearly 50 grassroots venues have shut down in London in the last eight years – a third of the total – with smaller clubs under threat from rising rents, licensing restrictions, noise complaints and developers.
Millions are made off huge shows at places like the O2 Arena, but if grassroots venues aren't preserved, in some 30 years' time, there won't be any acts to play these big gigs.
Mark Davyd co-owns the Tunbridge Wells Forum (capacity 250) and heads the Music Venue Trust, an industry body aimed at preserving grassroots venues, which he defines as anywhere with a capacity under 750.
According to the Music Venues Trust, London has lost 35percentt of its grassroots venues since 2007, due mostly to increased rent princes.
However, a report by the taskforce found that London had lost 35percentt of its grassroots venues since 2007, a year before Johnson took office, for reasons including spiralling property values, the planning system, police priorities and licensing requirements.
The speeches weren't only criticisms of capitalism, but food for thought on how one can prevent rent prices from affecting cultural communities; how big business and grassroots venues can coexist.
But it still has a home-grown, grassroots feel, with up-and-coming talent performing in pubs, clubs and venues across the city.
76 Smallbrook Queensway, 0121-632 6756, thesunflowerlounge.com This grassroots Digbeth venue celebrates heavyweight bass and soundsystem culture over three floors.
The report, London's Grassroots Music Venue Rescue Plan, puts forward a number of actions for the improvement and preservation of London's nighttime culture but the suggestion of the Night Mayor is certainly the most intriguing proposal.
"Grassroots music venues need investment now," said Dipple.
