Italian Rock Band Says “The City Seems Dead” Amid The COVID-19 Crisis Independent Artists in Europe Discuss 

The music industry is in a tailspin. Thousands of concerts, festivals, and events worldwide have been canceled due to the COVID-19 preventative measures taken in every nation requiring venues to close and fans to “shelter in place”. As a whole, the industry expects to lose upwards of 10 billion dollars this year and there are some in the entertainment world that doubt if there will be any live performances at all in 2020. Lost in all the numbers and statistics are the induvial artists who are simply trying to use their talents to make a living and follow their dreams. No performances equal no revenue for these performers whose livelihood depends solely on the ability to reach others with their music.

FLEMT is rock band whose members live in Italy. Alessandro “Frank” Lapini and Michele Trillini started the band in 2006 and have had great success over the years including opening for Bon Jovi in 2011 and being signed to US Indie Label White Lion Audio in 2017. But now the future of the group is in question as the coronavirus continues to ravage economies and communities in Europe and abroad.

”The impact has been catastrophic,” says Alessandro, “Everything in Italy has been shut down. It's as if we are living at the end of the world. If you go outside you cannot even hear the sound of a fly. The city seems dead.”

Italy has over 150,000 reported cases and at least 16,000 deaths due to COVID-19. The country has also imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew and national lockdown for the last month which is finally beginning to lower the death toll.

“All work has stopped, and no one can work their jobs. It feels as [if}] we are in jail,” the band leader and bassist goes on to say. “I recommend following the rules imposed by the governments and together we will come out of this stronger than before.”

The band’s manager, Gina Whitt (USA), says, “FLEMT was in the studio preparing to release their newest single when Italy went into lockdown. We've had to halt the studio time. We were also preparing for festival season in Europe and America. COVID-19 shutdown all live performances. On a day to day basis, managing the band during the "shelter in place" has had little effect. Being from Alabama myself and the band in Italy, we've had 4 years to perfect our work schedule. Twitter, Facebook & WhatsApp are our best friends. We've been busier than ever, working on our fan base, promotions etc.”

Gina went on to express the importance of preparing the band for what lies ahead once the crisis has passed. “I think that artists/bands will be busier than ever. People are going to want to get out of the house when the "shelter in place" has been lifted and they'll be seeking entertainment. I think we are going to see a resurge of fan participation at festivals, concerts & club shows. Now, the music world is struggling but I wouldn't be surprised if in the future they see a positive change.“

In light of this FLEMT members like Alessandro are practicing new music while others like lead vocalist, Patrik Pambianco perform on social media platforms for their fans. “I think that man should understand that the investments that are necessary above all, in healthcare cannot be overlooked,” states Alessandro. “There's also a need for unity between people. Unfortunately, it's economic power that has led us to this catastrophe. But still, we have hope.“

FLEMT’s latest track “Dream Girl” is available for purchase and stream on all music platforms through White Lion Audio and Sony Orchard.