Typically, we at CincyMusic put together a list of our favorite love songs, shows, or what not for Valentine’s Day. This year hits a bit different as we are approaching the year mark of when the music industry had to shut down for safety.

This past year has been daunting. Artists have had to shift from touring to going ‘Live’ and asking for tips. Most music venues are shut down, or operating at a much lower capacity. Music Festivals have been shut down, and most working in the music scene have been furloughed or let go. The collapse of the live music industry affected not only artists, but the thousands of people who work alongside them, from road crew, sound engineers, promoters, security guards, etc…

We are not sure about you, but the lack of seeing live music has also put a wrench into our mental health. There is just something about being in a room with a bunch of strangers that all love the same band. It’s cathartic.

We are in the upswing though… the Save Our Stages Act has passed, but it could take a while for the funding to flow. Please, if you have the resources, donate to the Giving Back Fund to assist the venues at greatest risk of permanently going under as we wait for the grants to be issued.

One of the standout savior’s of the independent artist in 2020 was Bandcamp, which let artists receive full revenue for any music sold on its site via its now-monthly Bandcamp Fridays.

We at CincyMusic, also tried to help out artists, venues, and organizations where we could with CincyMusic LIVE. A way for those to go ‘Live’ from our platform, and we will continue this for all until it is not needed.

Here is to hoping that that next Valentine’s Day, we can all go to whatever show you want to go to at your favorite venue.

In the meantime, support the local music community however you can, wear a mask, get vaccinated, and stay safe.