Why discuss Cleveland’s music scene? What’s so great about it compared to all the other cities across the country that artists perform? Well, I’m originally from Long Island, NY…
Neighboring arguably one of the best cities to see a variety of live music, NYC. I initially got into this music the summer before my freshman year at Kent State University, approximately 50 minutes from CLE.
I spent my first two years, 50 minutes away, from the music, people, and venues that I was wanting so badly. I had no person in my life who shared the same passion for electronic and underground music when I was at school, so I had no way to connect myself with the music scene of CLE.
As I emerged into the electronic scene of CLE, I came to realize all the shows I see home in NY, I can see right here; for a cheaper price and at a variety fun, different, accessible venues that you can’t find anywhere else. By accessible, I literally mean that, unlike NYC where locations could be spread miles apart and not the easiest to get to sometimes; CLE’s city is the PERFECT size in my opinion, you never have to worry about your travel time too much.
The word community is a strong description of the local music scene among Cleveland – CLE is home to the Rock & Rock Hall of Fame, after all.
You’re in the city of Rock Music, and every EDM or underground performer you could want to see, big or small, will most likely be making a stop in Cleveland; The House of Blues is a venue that is known for artists returning because the venue is just THAT cool – not only do they have a venue that can hold up to 1200 people, it’s located next to East 4th Street, a popular location in Downtown CLE, and extends up through the building into a restaurant and The Foundation Room; which is all cloaked in silk, taking you back to the CLE music days of the 70’s and 80’s.
Want to go somewhere less ‘mainstream’ per say? CLE is filled with underground scenes, located under bars, restaurants, or just a smaller venue in general; like the Beachland Ballroom & Tavern. And the best part, everyone supports each other within this smaller music community – collaboration is key.
CLE isn’t just home to the live music scene; but, also a various of educational and non-profit music organizations with a goal of bettering the local community, through music. Music is a powerful outlet that should utilized – CLE has learned exactly how to do that.
So, the reality is, the music scene is right here within CLE, you don’t have to go anywhere else.
WELCOME TO THE LAND OF MISFIT MUSIC 