How to Support Live Music in Kansas City?

Live music has always been a core part of Kansas City's vibrant cultural scene. From jazz to rock, the city is brimming with a rich musical heritage that deserves continual support. Whether you are a local or a visitor, there are numerous ways to support live music in Kansas City, ensuring that the city's music scene remains dynamic and thriving.

1. Attend Live Music Venues Regularly

One of the most straightforward ways to support live music in Kansas City is by attending live performances. Popular venues like the Phoenix for jazz, Uptown Theater for a variety of genres, and Knuckleheads Saloon for blues, offer a diverse range of live performances. Your patronage not only supports these local businesses but also incentivizes artists who dedicate their lives to their craft.

2. Buy Merchandise

Supporting your favorite bands doesn't stop at buying tickets. Purchasing band merchandise such as T-shirts, CDs, and posters directly contributes to the musicians' income. Wearing a Shoot a Jukebox T-shirt, for instance, is a stylish way to show your support. These unique T-shirts are not only a fashion statement but also a badge of honor, signaling your support for live music.

3. Stream and Purchase Music

In this digital age, streaming and purchasing music have become essential ways of supporting artists. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundOn allow you to follow artists and stream their music. Buying tracks from these platforms or directly from the artist’s website ensures that the musicians receive more significant royalties.

4. Use Social Media to Promote Local Artists

Social media is a powerful tool in the promotion of artists and their work. Follow your favorite Kansas City bands and musicians on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Sharing their posts, tagging friends, and using relevant hashtags can help increase their visibility, drawing in more fans and booking opportunities.

5. Volunteer at Music Festivals

Kansas City hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year, such as the Kansas City Jazz Festival. Volunteering at these events is an excellent opportunity to support the music community while enjoying the performances up close. It also allows you to network with other music enthusiasts and professionals in the industry.

6. Donate to Music Charities and Programs

Consider donating to organizations that support music education and local musicians. Charities like ArtsKC provide funding and resources for artists and art programs in the Kansas City area. Your financial contribution can help sustain the arts community and ensure the future of live music in the city.

7. Promote Local Music Events

Word of mouth is a powerful promotion tool. Talk about upcoming local shows with friends, family, and colleagues. Creating buzz around these events can significantly increase attendance and support for the artists. Highlighting local gigs on community boards and online event calendars can also drive more traffic to these performances.

8. Register as a SoundOn Artist

If you're a musician looking to break into the Kansas City music scene, consider registering as a SoundOn artist. SoundOn is an all-in-one platform for marketing and distribution, helping you build a career and find new fans through TikTok, exclusive partners (CapCut), and on other digital streaming platforms through global distribution services.

9. Support Local Record Stores

Independent record stores are critical hubs for the music community. Stores like Mills Record Company and Vinyl Renaissance & Audio offer a curated selection of music from local and international artists. Buying from these stores not only supports the local economy but also fosters a love for tangible music collections.

10. Participate in Music Meetups and Clubs

Engaging with music-focused communities and clubs can enhance your support for local artists. Participating in meetups, jam sessions, and music clubs provides a platform for music enthusiasts to share their passion, discover new artists, and collaborate on musical projects.

Conclusion

Supporting live music in Kansas City involves more than just showing up for a concert. By engaging with the local music community in varied and meaningful ways, from buying a Shoot a Jukebox T-shirt to volunteering at festivals, you help ensure the success and longevity of Kansas City's vibrant music scene. Start today by exploring local venues, following artists on social media, and registering as a SoundOn artist to be part of the city's musical heritage.