After getting their start in the early 90s, Garbage is doing what they can to support new artists who are trying to break through during tough times.
LISTEN NOW: Garbage discusses the struggles new artists face
“We were really lucky, we emerged in the 90s when you could sell records,” lead singer Shirley Manson told Audacy’s Megan Holiday. “We were really lucky we didn’t come out right now where you see all these amazing musicians, and they are very popular and they are living hand to mouth. They’re not even earning the minimum wage.”
She continued, “It kind of breaks my heart. I do feel very protective towards them and I realize they don’t have the platform that we have. We have a big platform — we’ve been around a long time — but these young musicians don’t have that luxury so I do feel compelled to speak up about it because if not — if I don’t, who out there is gonna?”
Manson went on to explain where she believes changes need to be made, and it starts with the large music companies.
“The change has to come from the music companies who are making nasty deals under the table where they make billions of dollars and none of that profit is seeping down to the working musician,” she shared. “That is the biggest problem.”
Manson took the stage with Garbage over the weekend at Audacy’s 9th Annual We Can Survive in support of Audacy’s I’m Listening initiative and the American Foundation For Suicide Prevention in an effort to raise awareness surrounding mental health. Hear the band’s entire interview with Holiday surrounding new artists, the importance of a positive mental health space, and much more above.