Save FBi
One million dollars stands between FBi Radio and survival - but Sydney's not about to take it lying down
By Andrew P Street
FBi are in crisis, and they need your help. Fortunately they've chosen the best way possible to raise their much-needed funds: by putting on a series of astonishingly awesome shows (including one proudly presented by Time Out Sydney). Sydney's creative community have rallied together to help out by donating their talents to the cause – and as you can see below, they've got some damn good reasons…
What significance has FBi had for you as an artist?
Sarah Blasko They were one of the first stations to play my music. I was the first to be interviewed when they went to full-time broadcast. A memorable day!
Joshua Bush (Bridezilla) They gave us our first airplay, therefore promoters heard us and then booked us and we really got started.
Chris Wirasinha (Flying Foxes) FBi offered a way to get our music out through another channel without commercial pressure and dictatorial music directors!
Glen & Damon (So I'm Jo) If it wasn't for FBi the only people that would have heard our music is our mums.
How important is the station to Sydney?
Alex Griss & Brad Heald (Red Riders) It is, hands down, the most important thing that's happened to Sydney's music scene in the last 10 years.
Andy Bull Essential. Every city needs a radio station like FBi to nurture and stimulate the local musical economy on a local, grass-roots level.
Kween G & Belizean Bombshell (Killa Queenz) It's important because they play a lot of Australian artists. And they have shows which play music from around the world, that you won't hear on other stations.
Jasper and Oscar (Warhorse) It is the only station that really supports Sydney bands.
What would happen if FBi was to disappear?
Kiss Read (The Scare) The local scene would suffer dramatically.
The Jezabels Some potentially great artists might never be realised without that initial support that only FBi gives.
Kieran Day (Traps) Well, it would suck. I mean seriously suck. For me personally, I would not only lose a radio station that I love and tune into frequently, but I would struggle with airplay.
What do you hope the campaign will achieve long-term?
Laura Imbruglia A permanent Sydney home and safe haven for young, vibrant, exciting acts to develop, grow and thrive - as well as an alternative to the other radio options.
Brett Ramson (Bridgemary Kiss) Enough support to keep them going. So many bands rely on FBi to get their music on a radio station that people actually listen to.
What's your direct message to the people of Sydney regarding the fundraising gigs?
Tom Wallace (Red Riders) Give a little now, because having smart people pick tracks for your city is better than nationwide networks of bland crap.
Earnest Ellis Get along to as many FBi benefit shows as you can and support a station that supports Australian music.
Fraser Harvey (Cameras) I cordially invite you to take part in FBi's 2009 giving programme.
Peter Enestrom (The Vanish) Come get loose, and give us your loose change while you're at it.
You've read what we think. Now tell us what you think.