James Blake Announces ‘Trying Times’ Tour: A Look at the Resurgence of Intimate Venue Performances
James Blake, the critically acclaimed English singer, songwriter, and producer, has announced a North American tour in support of his forthcoming album, Trying Times. The tour, kicking off in Atlanta on May 27th, includes stops in major cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago, culminating in a single Canadian date at Toronto’s HISTORY venue on June 6th. This tour announcement comes alongside the release of a new single, “I Had A Dream She Took My Hand,” and signals a return to live performance for the artist.
The Appeal of Mid-Sized Venues in a Festival-Dominated Landscape
Blake’s choice of venues – including the Tabernacle in Atlanta, Brooklyn Paramount in New York, and HISTORY in Toronto – is noteworthy. These are mid-sized venues, offering a more intimate experience than the large arenas and stadiums that dominate many contemporary tours. This trend reflects a growing desire among fans for more personal connections with artists. Even as large-scale music festivals continue to be popular, many artists are finding success by focusing on smaller, more curated live experiences.
The demand for these types of shows is driven by several factors. Firstly, the sound quality in smaller venues is often superior, allowing for a more nuanced appreciation of an artist’s music. Secondly, the limited capacity fosters a sense of community between the artist and the audience. Finally, these venues often offer a more affordable ticket price, making live music accessible to a wider range of fans.
Independent Artists and Direct-to-Fan Engagement
Trying Times is particularly significant as it marks Blake’s first album as a fully independent artist. This independence allows for greater creative control and a more direct relationship with his fanbase. Independent artists are increasingly leveraging direct-to-fan engagement strategies, including exclusive pre-sale access for newsletter subscribers – as advertised on Cobrand – and personalized content on social media. This approach builds loyalty and allows artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers in the music industry.
This shift towards independence is mirrored by a broader trend in the music industry. Platforms like Bandcamp and Patreon have empowered artists to monetize their work directly, reducing their reliance on record labels and streaming services. This allows them to focus on creating high-quality music and building genuine connections with their fans.
The Role of Social Media in Tour Announcements and Fan Interaction
The announcement of the ‘Trying Times’ tour was heavily promoted through social media platforms like Instagram, and Facebook. This highlights the crucial role social media plays in modern tour promotion and fan engagement. Artists can use these platforms to share behind-the-scenes content, interact with fans directly, and build anticipation for upcoming shows. The immediacy and reach of social media make it an indispensable tool for artists looking to connect with their audience.
Tour Dates & Ticket Information
Here’s a complete list of James Blake’s ‘Trying Times’ tour dates:
- 05-27 Atlanta, GA – The Tabernacle
- 05-29 New York, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
- 05-30 New York, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
- 05-31 Boston, MA – Roadrunner
- 06-02 Washington, DC – The Anthem
- 06-04 Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall
- 06-06 Toronto, Ontario – HISTORY
- 06-08 Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed
- 06-11 Berkeley, CA – Greek Theatre
- 06-12 Los Angeles, CA – The Greek Theatre
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster and StubHub.
FAQ
Q: What is the significance of the album title, ‘Trying Times’?
A: The album title reflects a period of personal and creative exploration for James Blake.
Q: Where can I find more information about James Blake’s music?
A: You can visit his official website or follow him on social media.
Q: Are there any age restrictions for the concerts?
A: Age restrictions vary by venue. Please check the venue’s website for details.
Q: Is there parking available at the HISTORY venue in Toronto?
A: Yes, History Event Parking is available as an upgrade, according to Live Nation.
Did you grasp? James Blake previously performed at Toronto’s Tranzac Club in January, showcasing his commitment to smaller, more intimate venues.
What are your thoughts on the trend of artists choosing smaller venues? Share your opinions in the comments below!
