Calvin Harris' pub helps his hometown's music scene

Calvin Harris, whose real name is Adam Wiles, is a well-known DJ and music producer who has achieved great success in the music industry. He grew up in the town of Dumfries, Scotland, and has made a name for himself with numerous chart-topping hits. However, in addition to his global fame, Calvin is also making a significant impact in his hometown by being a co-owner of a local pub called the Coach and Horses. This establishment is playing a vital role in supporting the local music scene and providing a platform for emerging artists. Calvin is part of a group called To The Nines, which purchased the Coach and Horses on the Whitesands a couple of years ago. The pub has received praise from various bands, music organizations, and community members who are working to revitalize the town center. The Coach and Horses has become a popular venue for live music, hosting performances almost every weekend, and it is helping to foster a sense of community in Dumfries. The pub itself has a charming cream-colored exterior with a purple sign, making it a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike. Calvin Harris has shown his commitment to his hometown by being actively involved in this project. He is listed as a director of To The Nines Ltd, alongside his friend Mark Irving. A recent report in The Sun revealed that the group acquired the Coach and Horses for £190,000 in August 2023, and since then, it has continued to build its reputation as a beloved local music venue. Hagen Patterson, the director of the Dumfries Music Collective (DMC), which aims to provide musical opportunities for young people in the region, has recognized the Coach and Horses as an iconic grassroots music venue. He stated that the pub has been a place where great artistry has emerged over the years. Hagen believes that the Coach and Horses offers a valuable opportunity for local artists to gain experience and exposure. Performing live for the first time, even in front of a small audience, is an essential step for musicians. It allows them to test new material, understand audience reactions, and develop a local fan base. Hagen expressed his gratitude that Calvin and Mark have ensured the longevity of the Coach and Horses, as it plays a crucial role in nurturing the local music scene. Recently, a band called Kissing the Flint performed at the pub. The band, which moved to Dumfries from Australia a few years ago, has quickly fallen in love with the venue. Leah Chynoweth-Tidy, a member of the band, shared her thoughts on the Coach and Horses, saying that the staff are incredibly supportive and welcoming. She emphasized that the audience is open to various music genres and is enthusiastic about their original songs, which is becoming increasingly rare in many venues. Leah described the Coach and Horses as a place that feels like home for them, and they consider everyone who visits to be part of their music family. Another musician, Andy McMillan, who is the frontman of a local band called the Dogz, echoed similar sentiments about the pub. He referred to the Coach and Horses as an awesome grassroots venue, highlighting the staff's passion for live music and their support for both established and emerging artists. Andy noted that even though the venue is small, its contribution to the local music scene is significant. Just a short distance from the pub, Rab Smith operates a record shop called Domino Entertainment and has previously served as the chairman of the town's retailers' association. Rab believes that Dumfries has the potential to become a vibrant entertainment hub. He envisions the area around the Whitesands as a fantastic location for nightlife. Rab also expressed his appreciation for Calvin Harris, stating that it is heartening to see a local boy who has achieved success giving back to the community. He described the Coach and Horses as a great little pub, noting that while it may not be as large as some famous venues, it is wonderful to see someone investing in it and keeping it alive. Richie Nicoll, who chairs the Dumfries Town Board, is focused on revitalizing the town center. He referred to the Coach and Horses as a true gem for Dumfries, emphasizing the lively atmosphere during live performances and the crowds that gather outside on sunny days. Richie appreciates that the pub is independently owned, which allows it to maintain its unique charm and flexibility. He mentioned that the Coach and Horses is one of his favorite spots to visit when he is out in town for a drink. Calvin Harris is not only a global superstar but also a dedicated supporter of his hometown, contributing to the local music scene and creating a welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy.