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Witch Fever Say Arena Support Tour Left Them Broke as Taxes Lock Up Earnings

The band blames Brexit-related withholding alongside new compliance costs for eroding UK artists' pay.

Overview

  • The Manchester quartet disclosed the shortfall on the 101 Part Time Jobs podcast after leaving day jobs to take the tour.
  • They supported Volbeat across UK and European arenas from September to November, including Wembley and sold-out dates in Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt.
  • Bassist Alex Thompson said the expected profit is held in European withholding taxes, describing the outcome as effective double taxation.
  • Vocalist Amy Hope Walpole said she is relying on £4,000 in inheritance and that March tour commitments make short-term employment unrealistic.
  • Industry data from UK Music and the Music Venue Trust reports worsening EU touring conditions, slowing sector growth and fragile grassroots venues, aligning with the band’s experience.