Today, we at USDemocrazy have decided to take a break from bonuses and Obama and AIG and the economy… and well, you know, all the bad stuff going on. Instead, we’re talking music!
In case you hadn’t heard, this week, Austin, Texas is descended upon by music industry big-wigs and little-wigs, independent musicians from all genres, music journalists, and music junkies for the South by Southwest music festival. If you don’t know what that is, you really ought to. The whole industry has its eye on the eighty-plus stages in Austin featuring hundreds of pretty sweet performances.
But, if you can’t go, or have been too into “the news” to have paid much attention, you’re in luck! There’s a ton of people who would love to tell you about it!
Our favorite place to go is NPR, who are in their element at the music festival, broadcasting select performances on – gasp – the radio! But, if you’re glued to your computer as most of us are, they have great live webcasts from the best shows, including chats with people at the show and photos from the show. It’s like you’re there… but not.
In a recession, spending money on music (we at USDemocrazy are all for legality, and we actually purchase our music!) might seem like a frivolous expense that can be eliminated. But these days, it’s nice to have your money go to something you can actually enjoy, rather than to some slimy Wall Street exec. (OK, so we can’t entirely erase those bonuses from our minds.)
If you’re going to be able to make it mentally (let alone financially) through this economic bust, you might need a little escape from all this money business to take in a show, buy a new album, or discover a new artist. But a lot of people don’t know where to start. Here’s a hint: start by paying attention to South by Southwest. There’s something for everyone — even those finicky bluegrass fans. (The Travelin’ McCourys are a great place to start, if you’re into that kind of music.)
Indulge in a little new music. It’ll make you feel good! And if it’s the top trend on Twitter, it has to be worth talking about!
