The Long-running legal dispute between The Leadmill and the Electric Group came to an end this summer, with Sheffield students saying goodbye to the iconic venue that we all know and love.
The Leadmill has been a vital part of Sheffield music culture for the past 45 years.
Since opening in 1980, during a transformational period for the Steel city, The Leadmill opened with the purpose of making music and theatre accessible for marginalised groups and ran on a non-profit basis.
They reinforced the message that culture is an integral part of a society and should not be treated like a luxury, with the community at the heart of its operations.
This made the venue extremely popular with the students of Sheffield. It’s a place of joyful memories from both the iconic club nights and gigs.
It’s beloved weekly club nights have remained a huge part of our student life, with memories of the iconic Leadmill Fridays, silent discos, and Halloween making up most people’s student experience.
The venue accompanied Sheffield’s major grassroots history and became the birthplace of iconic bands like Pulp and Arctic Monkeys. Providing artists with the initial boost they need to make their way within the music scene.
The venue’s influence extended much further beyond the music community and became a part of Sheffield’s identity and the city’s culture.
The venue will be missed by both Sheffield and further afield, the closure of the venue is a saddening reminder that grassroots venues are dwindling in numbers.
So what now? Sheffield isn’t short of a great night out. For those missing seeing that The Leadmill sign every week, here are some top spots to help fill the gap the closure has left in Steel City.
- Sheffield University’s Students’ Union
The legendary Leadmill Fridays have been taken over by our very own Students’ Union club Foundry! Foundry is also set to take over some of The Leadmill’s upcoming gigs, like Manchester Calling and The Clause.
- Sidney & Matilda
For all the Sonic Saturdays fans, don’t worry! The weekly event has been moved to the gallery room of Sidney & Matilda, a student favourite Live Music Venue and Bar. For upcoming freshers events, we will also see the venue host The Leadmill’s Sabrina Carpenter vs Chappell Roan event and XCX World.
- Corporation
A well-established venue,Corp will be taking over The Leadmill’s Silent Disco and 2015 Club Night to host all the upcoming freshers this September.
- Network
The Matilda Street venue, Network, is also set to take over some upcoming The Leadmill events this September. For people looking for a nostalgic-filled night singing ABBA lyrics, ABBA Party will be taking place on 27th September to end your freshers week.
Although we have to see the legendary venue close its doors, The Leadmill’s Directors have stated that the brand itself will continue meaning students have the chance to return to the style of the iconic music venue whilst also trying out some new spots.
Image Credit: @theleadmill (The Leadmill’s Instagram)
