By Therese “Tiki Tee” Sheridan
June 5, 2023
The hole-in-the-wall restaurant that has the best sandwiches, the florist where you bought your prom corsage, the café around the corner that makes your coffee just right: When thinking of small or local businesses, these are the types of businesses we tend to think about.
It’s no mystery why supporting these entities is so important. After all, it encourages entrepreneurship, creates jobs, strengthens the local economy and helps represent the culture of the towns we love. While supporting these types of businesses has become second nature, local musicians continue to be an overlooked small business.
From rappers and rock bands, to classical singers and violinists, the musicians within our neighborhoods are not easily seen. Unlike other types of small businesses, oftentimes they do not have ads in the paper, a physical location you can visit or signs you pass by on your way to school or work. Yet, when these musicians make a name for themselves their success radiates through the streets. Take for example the state of New Jersey. Frankie Valli, Frank Sinatra, Whitney Houston, The Sugarhill Gang, Queen Latifah, My Chemical Romance, The Jonas Brothers and SZA are just a handful of artists who have emerged from New Jersey over the years. Although the state has been coined the “Armpit of America,” there is no denying that such talent makes New Jersey proud.
Local musicians deserve the same attention as other small and local businesses, but how can you support them? Here are 3 easy ways:
1. Ask the musicians in your life
Whether it’s a coworker, a family member, a friend or a neighbor, express interest in what your local musicians are doing. Is there a place you can stream their music? Do they have any upcoming shows? Do they have any social media channels you can follow? Odds are, the answer is yes. Even if you pass by a musician performing in the park , engage with them. Your interest in their craft will mean the world to them.
2. Follow, like, comment & share
Another sure way to support local musicians is through social media. If they have an artist/band page on Facebook, be sure to give them a follow to stay up to date on their new releases and shows. If you prefer platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Threads or X (formerly known as Twitter), you can like, comment, share and follow them on these accounts too. Be sure to engage with their content as well. Similarly to how you’d share a picture of that “Insta-worthy” pizza slice from the pizzeria down the street, share your local musician’s music if it resonates with you. To do this, repost their posts or even use their music when creating your own posts.
3. Check out local venues
Okay, so maybe you don’t personally know any musicians in your city. That doesn’t mean you can’t support the music scene in your area. If there is a particular genre or style that piques your interest, research nearby locations that hold performances of that genre and plan a fun night out. Not only do local shows tend to be cheaper than large concerts, but by attending, you may discover that your neighbor is your new favorite artist.
Attending performances doesn’t have to be exclusive to venues. In fact, attending the music concerts of local schools is another great way to support local musicians. Although they may not be in their career stage yet, a supportive crowd can encourage young, student musicians to further pursue their passions.
Bonus Tip!
Supporting local music isn’t just a one way street. If you yourself are a musician, be sure to build connections to put your name out there. Although filming TikToks and landing placements on Spotify playlists is important, never underestimate the power of your community. Engage in community activities, be present and build a relationship with those around you.
The world is brimming with musical talent. We shouldn’t let this talent go unnoticed and unsupported. It’s time for us to support the overlooked small business: our local musicians.
