State of the Music Scene - Part 1

April 13th, 2008 at 08:09pm Jonathan Bradley

This article is called, “The Music Scene”, and as such I should obviously devote time to Rockford’s ‘Music Scene’. I have quite a few friends that are deeply involved in area music whether they are performers, promoters, or establishment owners and I’m lucky enough to get a chance to have great conversations every once in awhile. Here’s a snapshot of what’s going on in the area:

1. The music scene in Rockford is alive but may be too hidden:

-I’ll need feedback on whether or not this is true for you the reader. Here’s my take - there are great bands in this town but all of the venues, largely, are located downtown. Be it CJ’s, Mary’s Place, Kryptonite, The Rock Box, etc. all great music tends to be within 2 miles of the river district. This is a problem only because there is no secret that Downtown is struggling, and quite badly I’d say. How many times do you read about proposals to revitalize downtown only to not see them being actualized? A shining example of Downtown’s challenges is the Midway Theatre or The Times. Both are beautiful locations with so much potential that currently lay in disrepair. It’s sad. Even The Paragon, seemingly one of the most successful restaurants in Rockford, has been abandoned.

2. The Good (or Bad) News - Metro Centre is drawing more relevant acts:

I remember when Poison, RATT, and Great White all came to the Metro Centre in the 90’s and only around 1,000 people showed up to see them. Sure, they were bands that were once popular but in the 90’s? No. But kudos to the Metro Centre folks in booking Bret Michaels this time around and capitalizing on the fame and popularity of VH1’s “Rock of Love”.

3. There is a good variety of music for all ages:

Want to see some good 21+ music? You’re sure to find some at Kryptonite or Big Al’s Lounge. Are you in High School or younger? There is a booming (though somewhat underground) all ages music scene - just visit The ELB or The Rock Box on a Friday night and see for yourself.

I realize that this article is somewhat brief but I really need to hear about what you think about the Rockford ‘Music Scene’. Part 2 of “The State of the Music Scene”, will be right here next week.

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