London Promoter Rod Gilmore Launches Kickstarter for One Eighty One
Independent North London venue seeks community backing via Kickstarter
Rod Gilmore, a prolific London promoter and DJ known for two decades of events under The Doctor’s Orders, has launched a Kickstarter campaign to bring One Eighty One to life — a new independent record shop, café, and DJ bar in Islington.
The venue, located near Holloway Road and Highbury & Islington stations, will offer a daytime café and vinyl record shop, transforming into an evening music space with DJs and a lively community atmosphere. One Eighty One is designed to celebrate vinyl culture, high-quality sound, and local connection, providing an accessible and unpretentious venue for Londoners of all ages.
The Kickstarter campaign aims to raise £23,000, covering the final costs for venue fit-out, sound system, record stock, and furnishings. Supporters can select from a range of rewards, including exclusive vinyl editions, merchandise, early access opportunities, and invitations to visit the venue during its planned soft launch.
Rod Gilmore says: “London has given me everything in my career, and Islington has always been home. One Eighty One is a chance to create a space that reflects the community I grew up in and the music that shaped me. If you care about keeping independent venues alive in London, please back the Kickstarter and share it. Every pledge and every share helps make this a reality.”
Support One Eighty One and help bring this community-focused venue to life: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/rodgilmore/one-eighty-one-records-cocktails-coffee-djs-and-you
Elena Leo is the Culture & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.
