Live aid for FBi.

After appealing to Richard Branson for a quick cash fix, FBi 94.5FM is hoping rock n’ roll will save the struggling station.

Sydney arts radio FBi is asking the city’s artists, venues and music lovers to extend a hand, and some spare change, at a number of fundraising gigs throughout June

“Everyone at the station has worked really hard to get all of these exciting shows off the ground. We’ve got the venues giving their space, and the artists giving their time for free, so now it’s up to the people of Sydney to get out there and show their support by going along to the shows.” Said Dan Zilber, FBi’s Music Director.

With dwindling sponsorship and donations, FBi is feeling the effects of the financial crisis and needs $1 million to stay on air.

The save FBi campaign began with an invitation for listeners to ask British billionaire Sir Richard Branson for the money. They’re still waiting for his call.

Over the next two weeks, fundraising gigs will be held at the Metro Theatre, LA Campana, Spectrum, Melt Bar, the Hopetoun Hotel, The Annandale Hotel, The Gaelic Theatre, The Club, Manning Bar, Mum, and the Big Top, Luna Park.

The shows will feature big name local acts including Midnight Juggernauts, MUSCLES, Dappled Cities, Urtboy, Hermitude and The Mess Hall, among others, plus a handful of FBi volunteers armed with donation tins.

The Houpeton Hotel is going even further, donating one dollar from every ticket sale from every gig to FBi, until the end of June.

“They support young bands, we support young bands, and people don’t mind paying it,” said Hopeton Hotel owner Paul McCarthy.

FBi was launched in 2003, with a commitment to playing 50 % Australian music, half of that from Sydney. It’s been responsible for launching the careers of a host of Artsists, Presenters, and music industry insiders.

“The station has given a voice to the people of this city, and a platform to the artists, actors, musicians, djs, designers, promoters, producers, film makers, straights and eccentrics. All of us.” Said FBi, in a recent call for support. See www.fbiradio.com for ticketing and donation info.