The campaign comes after research by UK Music discovered around 50 pubs are closing each week because of the troubled economy and strict licensing laws, which is impacting heavily on the country's live rock scene.

NME editor Krissi Murison said most successful bands would not have got where they are today without the help of small venues. "They play an extremely important role in nurturing talent, which NME is very proud to support," Murison added. "It's in all of the ...