London’s Brixton Academy to host 360-degree virtual reality concerts

Iconic venue to stream live shows

Emeli Sande performs at the O2 Academy Brixton in 2018 (John Phillips/Getty Images for G)

Brixton Academy, one of London’s most iconic music venues, is set to host a series of live virtual concerts.

Fans will be able to choose their spot from which to watch the shows, to mimic the real-life experience of going to an event, which has become impossible during the coronavirus lockdown.

It has not yet been announced which artists will participate in the series, that will be available to watch via the MelodyVR app.

MelodyVR and Live Nation – the team behind last weekend’s virtual alternative to Wireless Festival, Wireless Connect – are putting on the events.

Live Nation UK chairman Denis Desmond said he looks forward to “connecting artists with fans globally through the latest and exciting 360° VR technology, direct from a purpose-built studio set within this iconic and world-famous venue”.

The live music industry has been hit hard by coronavirus. Last month, industry leaders predicted that half of all music venues and 70% of theatres across the UK face permanent closure as a result of the crisis.

The Independent spoke to artists such Elvis Costello and Rufus Wainwright about their favourite music venues and why it’s important to continue supporting them.