As conversations around disability gain momentum in the music industry, Charlie Lane reflects on progress, representation, and why accessibility benefits everyone.
You’ve been playing music for a while now. How are you finding the scene in general, especially when it comes to accessibility—from when you first started out to now?
When I first started, it was really hard. I have several disabilities, and some of them are quite mild, so you can’t always tell—and neither can venues or even other musicians I’ve worked with. Back then, there wasn’t much representation that I could see. I didn’t actually know anyone with a disability in the music industry, so I couldn’t ask many questions. I didn’t really have mentors I could turn t
That must have felt pretty isolating early on.
Yeah, definitely. But I think there’s been a huge shift in the industry. More people are coming out and talking openly about their disabilities now. I have mentors with disabilities these days, and I can ask those questions, which is really nice. People are changing their mindsets, and it’s really good to see.
Do you feel like things are actively improving?
We are seeing things change, even though we still have to keep talking about it and saying, “There needs to be change.” But there are significant changes happening, which is really encouraging. It’s not that venues are completely horrible—because they’re not. There are some really great venues out there doing the work.
What are some of the positive changes you’ve noticed?
Some venues are offering things like concession tickets and companion cards, which is really lovely of them to do. But we still need more awareness around people with disabilities. One in five people either have a disability or will gain one in their lifetime. If accessibility isn’t considered, you’re essentially restricting people from coming to gigs—and losing audiences and revenue in the process
Exactly. That’s a whole audience you’re not catering for, who genuinely want to come out and see live music.
Absolutely. Make it more accessible, and more people can come. It benefits everyone.
Speaking of gigs, how much are tickets for your upcoming show at The Gem?
I’ve got concession tickets available—they’re about $15, I believe. All the ticket details are on my website, charlielane.com, and on Oztix as well. Everyone’s welcome, and we’re really trying to make it as accessible as possible.
That’s great to hear. Thanks so much for chatting with I Don’t Blame You Media, Charlie
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