53 minutes | Monday, 6 October 2025
In this episode of Talking About My Generation, Lee Scriven and Dell Bromham are joined by the remarkable Chris Kemp – a key figure in the UK music scene and the man behind one of the country’s most important grassroots venues, The Pitz in Milton Keynes.
Chris shares his fascinating journey from his early love of rugby and dance to becoming one of the most influential promoters of his generation. He talks about transforming a former sports hall into a legendary live venue that attracted fans from across Europe, staging unforgettable gigs with the likes of PJ Harvey, Iron Maiden, Babes in Toyland, and countless others.
The conversation takes us through iconic live music memories – including Freddie Mercury’s magic at Knebworth, the raw power of thrash metal, and the genius of albums like Tubular Bells. Chris also discusses the challenges of running venues inside council buildings, the importance of relationships with agents and bands, and how marketing live music has evolved from posters on underpasses to the digital world of social media.
Along the way, expect stories of wild gigs, daring ideas that nearly went wrong, and the lessons learned from decades in live music promotion. We also hear about Chris’s later work as a safety officer for major festivals and arenas, including Roskilde and Champions League finals, and why safety, service, and experience matter more than ever.
This is more than a chat about music – it’s a masterclass in the history of live shows, promotion, and what it takes to keep the magic alive.
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