Beyond the Sign: What Does Supporting Local Music Really Indicate?
The ubiquitous “Support Local Music” sign is a familiar sight in venues across the country. But what does that phrase truly entail? It’s become a slogan, often divorced from concrete action. Musicians and venues alike are grappling with the complexities of genuine support, moving beyond simple awareness to tangible contributions of time, money, and presence.
The Value of Showing Up
Jason Irwin, a musician who recently performed at Sammy Cohen’s Restaurant and Bar in Schaghticoke, New York, highlighted the impact of fellow musicians and friends attending his present [1]. The presence of artists like Alex Riddell and Bryan (Kuntry Strong from BoonDock Kingz) demonstrated a commitment that extended beyond online promotion. This support, Irwin notes, is especially meaningful given their own busy schedules.
Time, Money, and Comfort: The Costs of Support
Genuine support often requires sacrifice. It means prioritizing a local show over personal convenience, even when faced with conflicting commitments. Irwin himself missed a stepdaughter’s concert to play a show, acknowledging the tricky trade-offs involved. It also means a financial investment – paying a cover charge, purchasing merchandise, or simply enjoying food and drinks at the venue. These actions, however small, collectively contribute to a sustainable ecosystem for local artists.
Beyond Attendance: The Ripple Effect
Support isn’t solely about attending shows. It’s about creating a network of encouragement. Friends Sandy and Mike, and Laura and Jim, regularly attending Irwin’s performances provided a significant morale boost [1]. Even a brief appearance, a drink purchase, or a shared experience can make a substantial difference to a performing artist.
The Challenges Musicians Face
Musicians themselves often struggle to reciprocate support due to demanding schedules filled with gigs, rehearsals, and recording commitments. The irony is that those most invested in the local music scene are often the least able to participate as audience members. Some venues also contribute to this challenge by prioritizing musicians who are already frequent patrons.
National Acts and the Local Scene
While enjoying performances by established national artists is valuable, it’s crucial to remember that every successful musician began as a local artist honing their craft in small venues. Supporting the local scene nurtures the next generation of talent and fosters a vibrant cultural landscape.
The Role of Online Engagement
Online support – shares, comments, and messages – is beneficial, but it cannot replace in-person attendance. While digital engagement raises awareness, it doesn’t directly contribute to a venue’s revenue or provide the immediate encouragement that artists receive from a live audience.
It’s Not About Guilt, It’s About Choice
Supporting local music isn’t an obligation, but a series of conscious choices. It’s about recognizing the value of live music and contributing to its sustainability in whatever way possible. Even small gestures, made consistently, can have a significant impact. The phrase “support local music” remains a powerful one, but it requires a commitment to action beyond simply displaying the slogan.
Jason Irwin has a solo acoustic performance scheduled at Sammy Cohen’s Restaurant and Bar in Schaghticoke [1].