The Upstate’s Music Scene Can’t Grow…

…if we default to the movie megaplex on Friday nights. 

My husband and I recently went to see Simpsonville’s Andy Lehman at The Channel, with openers The Tartalans. I can’t say I do that often—take Friday night as an opportunity to check out a new band for a cover of $10 over taking in an anticipated movie or playing mini golf or checking out a sporting event. It was something different. It was refreshing.

I grew up in the Upstate, and many of my friends who have since moved to Atlanta or Charlotte were among the complainers, those who claim we have nothing to do around here. I heartily disagree, but I’m not always one to prove it.

The fact is, when it comes to music, we have some homegrown legends – Edwin McCain, Mac Arnold, and more recently, needtobreathe. We have others you’ve heard of if you actually get out and look for them: The Bent Strings, Andy Lehman, The Advice and Kelly Jo Connect.

We’re not lacking talent, we’re lacking a culture that supports emerging talent. Brown Street Club, The Handlebar, The Channel, Smiley’s and soon MoeJoe Coffee on Main, are essential to changing the culture. They book quality talent, even if you don’t know the names. But they can’t succeed unless we music-lovers decide to forgo another night with Netflix and pizza when a new act has the stage.

Break the routine! Support our artists.