'Displaying a platform for emergent music from the ground up will be made feasible by this project'
In the heart of the UK's vibrant music festival scene, a new venture is rising—Grassroots Rising. This innovative project, a 'festival of festivals', is set to make a significant impact, aiming to revitalize the sector and provide a showcase for grassroots music.
The brainchild of Si Blatchly, the driving force behind the renowned Chai Wallahs touring festival stage, Grassroots Rising is a Community Benefit Society (CBS) venture. Si, who started Chai Wallahs in 2004 as a platform to introduce people to health products and natural incense, and to showcase his passion for music, remains passionate about creating moments that bring joy through music. He believes in music as an amazing form of communication and education, and in supporting unsupported artists by providing them with a professional platform.
Chai Wallahs has been a staple at several UK festivals, including Green Man, Kendal Calling, Secret Garden Party, and Shambala. It has always been a place of solace and discovery away from the hustle and bustle of busy main stages. In fact, it was here that the Conservatoire Folk Ensemble, a group of students from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, performed for the first time, playing in front of 2,000 people.
The music industry has faced challenges in recent years, with the association of Independent Festivals reporting that the UK lost 78 music festivals in 2024 alone. In response, Si Blatchly and others have teamed up to respond to these challenges with Grassroots Rising. The model for this venture aims to make it more affordable and provide a platform for grassroots music.
Luke Potter, a singer-songwriter, credits Chai Wallahs for saving his life and career multiple times. This sentiment echoes the experiences of thousands of up-and-coming artists who have found a platform at Chai Wallahs.
The Conservatoire Folk Ensemble's debut performance at Chai Wallahs is just one example of the impact this stage has had. If successful, Grassroots Rising will take place in June 2026 in Cambridgeshire. The crowdfunding campaign for this project will launch in August 2025.
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The other founding members of the Grassroots Rising Community Benefit Society who initiated this project with Si Blatchly have not been publicly disclosed. However, the collaboration between independent festivals, venues, and promoters promises to make Grassroots Rising a true festival of festivals.
Si Blatchly believes that music can evolve one's soul and considers it a universal language. With Grassroots Rising, he is creating a platform where this universal language can be heard, enjoyed, and celebrated.
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