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News • July 28th, 2026
|A new platform called Play One We Know (POWK) has recently launched from Hull, aiming to support grassroots artists, bands, and independent venues in building more sustainable futures. This initiative comes at a crucial time when many in the music industry are grappling with rising costs and shifting audience habits, making it harder for emerging talent to thrive.
What Is POWK?
Play One We Know is designed to transform the way music fans interact with their favourite artists and venues. Instead of just discovering music, the platform encourages fans to take active steps to support the artists they love. This includes actions like buying merchandise, making donations, and booking tickets, all aimed at helping grassroots music communities survive and grow.
The platform was co-founded by Gerard Toplass, a technology entrepreneur, and Gerard Gibbons, who is the Board Director at Hull's well-known venue, The New Adelphi. Their combined experience in both technology and the grassroots music scene has shaped POWK’s mission to convert fan attention into tangible support for artists and venues.
The Need for Support
In recent years, many independent venues and emerging artists have faced significant challenges. While streaming services have made it easier for fans to discover new music, they have not necessarily provided a reliable way for artists to earn a living. Many musicians find it tough to turn their online visibility into real financial support.
Independent venues are struggling with rising operating costs.
Changing audience behaviours are impacting attendance at live shows.
There is increased competition from digital platforms, which can overshadow local talent.
POWK aims to tackle these issues by offering practical digital tools that help artists and venues understand their audiences better, build stronger relationships, and ultimately generate more income. The platform encourages music fans to move from passive listening to active participation, supporting the artists and venues that are vital to the music ecosystem.
How It Works
At the heart of POWK is a simple concept: making it easier for fans to support the artists and venues they love. This is achieved through features that allow users to scan QR codes at gigs or on promotional materials. Once scanned, fans can:
Buy merchandise directly from the artist.
Make donations to support their favourite venues.
Share content to help spread the word about upcoming shows.
Join online communities of like-minded music lovers.
Book tickets for live events.
Gerard Toplass emphasises that the platform is about making support simple and accessible. He stated, "Attention does not always turn into income, and discovery does not always turn into meaningful support. POWK is about making that support simple." This approach is crucial for grassroots artists who need all the help they can get to sustain their careers.
The Importance of Grassroots Venues
Grassroots venues like The New Adelphi play a vital role in the music scene. They are often the first places where new artists perform, and they serve as cultural hubs for communities. Gerard Gibbons highlighted the importance of these venues, saying,
"Grassroots venues are where music culture starts. They are the places where artists learn, audiences discover something new, and music scenes begin to grow."
However, these venues are fragile and face numerous challenges. Gibbons notes that the ecosystem supporting grassroots music has become increasingly delicate, making platforms like POWK essential for providing the necessary support. By backing local venues and artists, POWK aims to help maintain the vibrant music culture that exists within communities.
Looking Forward
As POWK continues to develop, it seeks to become a central hub for grassroots music. The platform aims to foster collaboration between artists, venues, and fans, creating a stronger and more sustainable live music ecosystem across the UK. By providing tools that help artists generate support and understand their needs, POWK hopes to reduce waste and empower music communities.
In a world where the music industry is constantly evolving, initiatives like Play One We Know are crucial for ensuring that grassroots artists and venues can thrive. The launch of POWK not only represents a significant step forward for the music scene in Hull but also sets an example for other regions facing similar challenges. With its focus on sustainability and community support, POWK is poised to make a meaningful impact in the lives of many artists and music lovers.
