The Depo, a vibrant music venue located on Union Street in Plymouth, has achieved a significant milestone by winning the BEST Grassroots Venue of the Year Award at the BBC Radio 1 Dance Music Awards. This accolade recognizes the best small club that has contributed to the underground music scene over the past year, marking a momentous occasion for the venue and the community it serves.
The announcement of the award was made on February 20, 2024, during the Radio 1 Dance program. The Depo’s victory was determined through a public vote that closed on February 13. Co-owner Ryan Platts, who operates the venue alongside Ben Gill-Carey, expressed immense pride in their nomination, calling it a “pinch yourself moment.” For Platts, being shortlisted was already a significant achievement, but the public’s support transformed their hopes into reality.
In a heartfelt message to their patrons, The Depo team enthusiastically declared, “WE WON! We are officially the WINNERS of Radio 1 Dance BEST Grassroots Music Venue, and this time this is all down to YOU.” They acknowledged the vital role that their supporters played in securing the award, stating, “We got ourselves nominated for contributions to the music scene, but you guys went and won it for us.”
This recognition has resonated deeply within the Plymouth community. The Depo articulated the pride they feel in representing the city, stating, “This cements what an unbelievable community we have in the city, tipping us to top spot over cities with 40 times our population and venues with four times our following on socials.” They emphasized that this win puts Plymouth firmly on the national map, showcasing its cultural vibrancy.
The venue’s journey has not been without challenges. According to The Depo, “Being a grassroots venue comes with twists and turns at every corner.” They expressed hope that the award would serve as a catalyst for further development, aiming to enhance both the venue and the city for everyone involved.
In addition to this remarkable achievement, The Depo recently garnered attention when 50 Cent, the renowned American rapper, engaged with one of their Instagram posts. The post promoted a performance by his childhood friend, Lloyd Banks, scheduled for later this year. This interaction has added an extra layer of excitement surrounding the venue.
Since its opening five years ago, The Depo has been dedicated to fostering a space for live music, DJs, and emerging talent in Plymouth. Their commitment to supporting grassroots music continues to resonate with both local and national audiences.
The Depo’s recent award win and the community’s enthusiastic support highlight the importance of grassroots venues in the music industry. As they look to the future, The Depo aims to build on this success, creating an even more vibrant cultural hub for Plymouth and beyond.
