The Last Safe Space a straight-talking, data-driven podcast from Music Venue Trust. Each episode breaks down the biggest news affecting the UK’s grassroots music venues - from government policy to local wins, campaigns, crisis cases, and how you can take action to support live music.

In this episode, Toni Coe sits down with Omar Lye-Fook, an absolute legend in British soul, about 40 years in the music business and his upcoming ‘Brighter the Days’ tour with MVT and AGMP. They discuss the beauty of intimate shows in grassroots venues (with a special shoutout to Alphabet in Brighton), the power of community and connection when you’re up close with the audience, and the importance of protecting these spaces for generations to come.

Disclaimer: All data is correct on the date of filming 04/02/2026

Get tickets for Omar's tour:
https://omarmusic.co.uk/events/

Join the Supporters Circle:
https://save-our-venues.backstreetmerch.com

Learn more about our work:
https://www.musicvenuetrust.com

Support the show

The Last Safe Space a straight-talking, data-driven podcast from Music Venue Trust. Each episode breaks down the biggest news affecting the UK’s grassroots music venues - from government policy to local wins, campaigns, crisis cases, and how you can take action to support live music.

In this episode, Toni Coe is with special guest Steve Tannett, Director of Music Platforms for Marshall Group - they talk about his early relationship with music, both through playing and being in the audience, and the essential role grassroots venues play in shaping careers and culture. They discuss Marshall’s support through Marshall Nights, the power of artist advocacy, and the realities facing venues today, showing why standing with the scene matters for everyone who loves live music.

Disclaimer: All data is correct on the date of filming 04/02/2026

Join the Supporters Circle:
https://save-our-venues.backstreetmerch.com

Learn more about our work:
https://www.musicvenuetrust.com

Support the show

The Last Safe Space a straight-talking, data-driven podcast from Music Venue Trust. Each episode breaks down the biggest news affecting the UK’s grassroots music venues - from government policy to local wins, campaigns, crisis cases, and how you can take action to support live music. In this episode, Toni Coe sits down with Mae Stephens to talk about her upcoming UK tour with Music Venue Trust and her brand new single Blue. This episode was recorded at The Black Prince in Northampton - a grassroots music venue that is close to Mae's heart. This special conversation explores moving from viral online success to performing live on stage, the thrill of being up close with fans, and the bravery of people showing up solo to share the experience. Disclaimer: All data is correct on the date of filming 11/02/2026 Get tickets for Mae's tour: https://bit.ly/m/Mae-Stephens Join the Supporters Circle: https://save-our-venues.backstreetmerch.com Learn more about our work: https://www.musicvenuetrust.com

Support the show