Melbourne is now officially the live music capital of the world

Sydney-siders, get ready to swallow your pride and accept a sour, most-unfortunate fate – Melbourne has been officially recognised as the world’s live music capital. According to the second-ever Melbourne Live Music Census, Melbourne has more live music venues per capita than any other city in the world, beating out the urban super-powers of New York City and London.

On an annual basis, Melbourne is home to 73,000 gigs, showing a 19% increase since last year, with census also discovering that on each Saturday night, Melbourne’s venues play host to nearly 112,000 patrons.

Considering Melbourne’s also viewed as Australia’s sports capital, the report also revealed that live music is attracting more patrons than AFL, Spring Racing Carnival, A League, NBL, Netball, NRL, Cricket and Australian Grand Prix combined.

Melbourne’s economy is also taking in a hefty sum from avid gig-goers, with live performance generating a massive $1.42 billion in box offce revenue, representing a 16% increase on the $1.22 billion recorded in 2012.

Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said the Census has commented on the important role the music plays across the state.

“Music is part of our DNA in Victoria. Over the past two years we’ve been rolling out a range of programs that are strengthening our music scene at all levels, right across the state.”

“Our live music venues, industry organisations and musicians are thriving – from grants enabling artists to tour and grow new markets to mentoring and professional development and helping live venues become more sustainable – our $22.2m Music Works initiative is producing real results.”

You can read the entire census over at Music Victoria. 

This article originally appeared on The Industry Observer, which is now part of The Music Network.