McFly's Danny Jones has voiced concerns about the modern music industry, highlighting that artists can achieve billions of streams yet struggle to sell out live venues. Speaking to Metro, the singer reflected on the changes since McFly's debut single '5 Colours In Her Hair' over 20 years ago.
Charts and Algorithms
McFly, known for seven number-one singles and 15 top-10 hits, hasn't cracked the singles chart in over a decade despite back-to-back number-two albums since 2020. Jones attributes this to 'silly little algorithms.' He noted that fans still buy albums, which helped the band reach the top, but they were recently beaten by AC/DC on the album chart, a result he accepts with a chuckle.
Live at Your Local Campaign
Jones has partnered with Greene King for the Live at Your Local campaign, which will feature 900 grassroots artists performing free gigs in Greene King pubs across the UK throughout August and September. He emphasized the importance of intimate venues, recalling his own start at the Ye Olde Man & Scythe in Bolton. 'In local venues, you get to see bands creating the magic on a one-off night; you can't recreate that,' he said. 'Someone in that pub could be the next me.'
Decline of Guitar Bands
Jones expressed sadness over the decline of guitar bands in the mainstream. 'I don't know why there are not as many bands these days. It's like everybody's chasing a song on TikTok,' he said. 'I know artists who can get a billion streams on a song but can't sell out a venue.' He stressed that grassroots venues are crucial for artists to gain real-world experience, which social media cannot replicate.
Social Media and Anxiety
Despite the pressures, Jones has never missed a live show, even performing with bronchitis. He admitted to struggling with anxiety but finds support in his bandmates. He supports phone-free gigs, believing fans should give artists their full attention. At home, he uses 'do not disturb' to focus on family.
Future Projects
Jones is producing McFly's upcoming eighth studio album, having been put in charge by the band. He has 'retired from reality TV' after winning I'm a Celebrity, The Masked Singer, and mentoring on The Voice. He joked about a possible return to acting, 20 years after the film 'Just My Luck,' but acknowledged Chris Pine's bigger career success.
Advice for New Artists
Jones advises aspiring musicians to 'try and do something s**t' to create original work. 'If you want to be The 1975 or Adele, you're late,' he explained. 'If you try and do something s**t, you'll get something original and then you can make it good.' He believes the key to saving British music lies in supporting local venues and being less reliant on online platforms.
