Independent music venues struggle to stay afloat during pandemic Jan. 8, 2021 Touring musical acts, such as Young the Giant, are part of the live concert industry, which had been expected to be worth $31 billion worldwide by 2022. (Photo courtesy of Matthew John Benton) Before big acts like Foals, shown in San Francisco in 2016, gained national attention, they earned their chops at such small venues as Paramount ballroom in LA and the Rebel Lounge in Phoenix.(Photo courtesy of Matthew John Benton) Chris Martin of Coldplay sings to fans in Buenos Aires in 2016. Live events provide 75% of all artists’ income, according to the nonprofit National Independent Venue Association. (Photo courtesy of Matthew John Benton)