After reading Isabel Marquez's article about systemic sexism in the music industry, I began to think about my friends and peers who had experienced inappropriate touching or comments, barriers because of their gender identity, and sexual harassment at music venues. I remembered my bandmate and close friend getting catcalled in public by a performer onstage, a comment made about her body. She was 18 at the time, he was middle-aged. We laughed it off at the time but it was clear that it had an effect on her. A 'stupid' comment that revealed a lot about what this male-dominated industry deems acceptable. The organisation Tits Upon Tyne published an expose a few years ago on promotion companies in the North East. Misogyny in music flows from the very top to local, grassroots venues like a vein. I'm sure that most women and people of minority backgrounds reading this have experienced something that left a bad taste in their mouths in the context of a music event. As a white male, I recognise my privelege. It's not exactly my place to talk about other people's experiences - although I do believe it's my place as the owner of this blog to bring these issues to the forefront as often as possible. It's a huge topic, one that can sometimes be a little delicate to talk about. It is, however, vital to do it. Therefore, I leave this here as a way to perhaps spark a discussion. Is there a story (or stories) you want to share? Have you got any advice for young artists wanting to know what to look out for? Etc etc. As always: no hate speech, no bullying. Should go without saying! Ollie :)

Bad Taste was set up to be a space for independent and unsigned artists to collaborate, ask questions and help others to navigate the grassroots scene. You will all have different stories and different journeys but being an independent artist in the music industry is a shared experience and one that is full of ups and downs. The rules. No hate speech, no discrimination and generally no improper use of the forum. Don't be a dick. If we see this happening, you're gone. We're a friendly bunch. Kicking off, we want to get your perspective. What's the most valuable lesson you've learned from being an independent artist? Keep the thread going!