Getdown Services: A Band with a Mission
In the world of music, where success often shines a spotlight on the biggest cities and venues, it's refreshing to encounter a story that celebrates the power of smaller towns and the impact they can have on the industry. Getdown Services, a rock band with a unique mission, is flying the flag for Minehead, a seaside town in Somerset, and their journey is an inspiring one.
A Forgotten Paradise
Minehead, described as a 'forgotten paradise' by band member Ben Sadler, is a place that has been overlooked by the music industry. Yet, it is this very town that has nurtured the talent of Getdown Services and inspired their global success. Sadler emphasizes the lack of opportunities for young people in Minehead, stating, "there's not much for young people to do," which led him and his bandmate Josh Law to create music as an outlet.
Flying the Flag
Getdown Services are on a mission to represent Minehead wherever they go. Law shares, "We just want to try and fly the flag for Minehead... it's a beautiful place." Their success has not gone unnoticed, with the band performing alongside big names like Niall Horan and Squeeze, and even opening for Viagra Boys at Alexandra Palace. The duo's rise to fame has been a surreal experience, as they reflect on the privilege of traveling and connecting with people through their music.
Inspiring Others
The band's journey has inspired not only themselves but also the community of Minehead. At the End of the Road festival, people were eager to see Getdown Services perform, even with bigger names headlining. This unexpected popularity has left the band in awe. Paul Matcham, CEO of Minehead Eye, a youth center that played a pivotal role in the band's development, highlights the importance of giving young people opportunities to achieve and aspire.
Supporting Smaller Towns
Getdown Services' advocacy extends beyond Minehead. They are passionate about supporting independent artists and venues, choosing to play at smaller, independent venues when they have a say in the matter. Sadler notes the abundance of seaside towns like Minehead across the UK, places that were once entertainment hubs but are now overlooked. He believes that these towns still have a vibrant audience, and the band aims to reach and inspire them.
A Message of Hope
The story of Getdown Services is a testament to the power of music and the impact it can have on communities. Their success sends a message of hope to younger generations, showing that talent and passion can thrive in any environment. As Matcham puts it, "Where we began with all this was about giving young people that opportunity to go and achieve, want more, feel that they can."
In my opinion, Getdown Services' journey is a reminder that music has the ability to transcend geographical boundaries and inspire change. Their dedication to representing Minehead and supporting independent artists is a powerful statement, and I believe their impact will continue to grow as they tour the world.
